Page 57 of Always Beth
‘Who’s older?’
‘I am.’ She sips her tea. ‘By seven minutes, and I never let him forget it.’
Oh. This just gets better. I chew the inside of my mouth as the realisation hits that I accused him of being married not only to his sister, but to his twin.
‘You’re special, Beth, it’s been a long time since I’ve seen him like this.’
‘I’m sure he’s had his fair share of relationships.’
She shakes her head and I’m immediately intrigued. The woman we met in London seemed very acquainted with him and I can’t imagine for a second she’s the only one.
‘He had one serious relationship; she was my best friend and we fell out massively when they separated. I thought they’d be together forever. When it comes to each other we always put the other first. You can’t get closer than having a twin.’
Her expression is strained, like the weight of the world is on her shoulders.
‘Hasn’t he had a relationship since—?’
‘Grace? No. My brother’s no saint, I know he hasn’t been walking around like a monk. All I know is that if there was someone special I would know.’
My brow knits together. ‘Because you’re twins?’
‘Maybe.’
I groan as I sink my head back into my hands. ‘I asked him to choose between us, he must think I’m crazy.’
‘I think a little crazy is what ticks his boxes.’ She laughs.
‘Well, I’ve blown it now, there’s crazy and there is pick me or your twin, who I actually think is your wife, crazy.’
She reaches across the table and takes my hand in hers as she attempts to calm me. ‘We’ll fix this, Beth, don’t worry.’
I sink lower into my chair. This is a disaster. ‘What if he isn’t interested?’
‘He has to be. I won’t let him,’ she says firmly.
‘Why would you do this for me?’ I peer up at her in disbelief.
‘I’m not. I’m doing this for James and quite selfishly, I’m doing it for myself.’
‘For you? How do you mean?’
She pushes herself back from the table and towers above me. ‘It doesn’t matter right now, I need to know he’s going to be okay. So, I’ll ask you again, do you have feelings for him?’
‘Yes.’
* * *
‘What’s she doing here?’ James’ jaw locks tightly as he glares across the lounge towards me.
I knew this was a bad idea, yet I came anyway. Lauren convinced me everything was going to be okay. It’s quite clear now I’m here, that it isn’t.
‘I invited her,’ Lauren says firmly.
‘Well uninvite her. Beth, sorry my wife and I are a little busy this evening.’ His eyes dart sarcastically back and forth between me and Lauren.
‘Stop being an idiot, James. I told her we’re twins.’
He pulls the newspaper swiftly down and his handsome face is agitated beyond all recognition.
