“Is Beth okay, Posy?”
“She’s fine.”
Aidan glanced over her shoulder and watched Beth stagger to the door. “That’s good. And by the way, I think it’s sisterly of you to stick to coffee, too, because she’s given up alcohol.”
“What makes you think she’s given up alcohol?”
“I heard her talking about the baby.”
Posy closed her eyes briefly. “Aidan—”
“Yes?”
“I’m going to ask you a favor.”
He grinned. “Right. Wow, Posy. I’m a little overwhelmed. You’re very friendly lately.”
“Not that sort of favor. Come closer.” She leaned across the bar and beckoned to him.
He raised an eyebrow. “Are you about to kiss me in public?”
“No. I’m about to whisper something in your ear because I don’t want everyone to hear. Which I know is probably a waste of time because keeping a secret in this village is impossible, but a girl can dream.”
Aidan leaned forward. “What’s the secret?”
“Beth isn’t pregnant and I’d really appreciate it if you didn’t mention that you heard her say the word baby.”
“She’s not pregnant?”
“Not pregnant.”
“So why the coffee? Usually she likes a glass of white wine.”
“Forget what she usually likes.” Posy didn’t want to tell him her sister had already drunk more than enough. “Thanks for the burger and the chat, Aidan.”
“Anytime. And anytime you want to grab me and kiss me, that’s fine, too.”
“You’re right. The customer service here really is outstanding.” She patted him on the cheek. “Good night, Aidan.”
She extracted Beth from a conversation with a group of people she didn’t know and propelled her out of the pub.
Beth lurched unsteadily toward the car. “I’m looking forward to seeing Mom and Dad. Are they in?”
“No. Dad’s giving some talk on mountain survival, and Mom has Knitting Club at the café. And if you want my honest opinion, it might be safer for you to see them tomorrow when you’ve slept off your champagne lifestyle.”
“You could be right. I have a toothbrush, by the way.”
“Good to know.”
“First-class, they give you everything you need. Except pajamas, of course. And a new life.”
“You don’t need a new life.” Posy bundled her sister into the car and leaned across to fasten the seat belt. “All you need to do is reshape the old one.”
“Can I raid your wardrobe?”
“You always say my wardrobe is an abomination.”
“It suits your lifestyle.”