Chapter 28
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The weather held the next day, and Fran drove them way up the coast to the castles and beaches of Northumberland. They did indeed stop off for brunch, at a pub with a sea view and a great menu. Then they drove on, stopping for strolls and pictures at some of the best spots.
The day faded to a warm and pleasant afternoon, and they bought ice creams from a van and wandered a cliff path. Their talk had been a little superficial all day, just personal anecdotes and “getting to know you” stuff. But when they sat on a bench to enjoy the view, Fran spoke in a more serious tone.
“Dez, last night. You ran away from me.”
“Um, yes, I guess so.”
“If you think I’m pushing too fast or if you’re not interested in me that way, you can tell me. If you only want to be friends, that’s fine.” He turned and smiled. “Okay, not as good as what I’ve got hopes for, but still fine.”