Ethan cleared his throat. 'It was nice to see you smile when you came in. I was getting worried about you. I thought perhaps leaving hospital today was rushing things and that coming home to my place was a bit… much.'
Glancing over her shoulder Belinda replied, 'I do feel a bit displaced at the moment but in all honesty I couldn't stay another night under essentially false pretences. I'm fine except for - my problem' She said self mockingly. 'The room is lovely by the way, and Darlene…thanks for the clothes and… things.'
She was about to say underwear but couldn't with Ethan listening. How silly and adolescent. 'With my own clothes and this… I should be right.'
A few sips of the aromatic coffee, several deep breaths and with her runaway body now under control Belinda felt it was safe to return to the sofa considering that Ethan body language was now more open. 'I really have to thank you again for all that you have done, above and beyond the call of duty. I really don't think though for the time being I need anything else.'
'Please, no thanks are due. Consider this a holiday with a friend in the city.'
'A friend doesn't provide their guests with clothes and un… stuff.'
Did it again. 'A true friend helps out anyway they can.'
'But I can't abuse your generosity.'
'No, but you will accept it as your due.'
'I'm not due anything except your thanks and you've not let an hour go by without showing your gratitude.'
'Gratitude is one thing, but you need support at this time and that's all I'm doing.'
'So it's settled then.' interrupted Darlene putting an end to the circular argument. 'We're going clothes shopping tomorrow.'
On a hiding to nothing Belinda forced herself to relax secretly determined to keep a tight rein on the spending with the intention of paying it back.
Somehow, someday.
The conversation then moved to specific plans for tomorrow's expedition with David Jones being the department store of choice. It sold a wide range of goods including women's clothing and accessories. Ethan said he would notify David that he was to act as their chauffeur for the day which was to include lunch at a city restaurant.
Holding her now almost empty coffee mug to her face Belinda was able to surreptitiously study or was that ogle Ethan over the edge of the cup.
Oh he was gorgeous. Dressed immaculately in a cream cashmere sweater and dark brown chinos he was sex on legs. That errant flop of hair over his forehead only added to his magnetism. Again her hand itched.