Say Hello, Kiss Goodbye - Jacquelyn Middleton Page 0,22

daywear dresses are gorgeous, too. I can see your customers going straight from the office to drinks with their latest right-swipe.” Simon enlarged the photo of the dress Leia had worn to IKEA. “This lace one is spectacular. It’s romantic but has a chic contemporary edge. And the butterfly sleeves…wow.” He laid her phone between their plates and picked up his fork, finally diving into his meal.

“That means so much coming from you.” Smiling, Leia set down her drink. “Your designs took my breath away. I can’t see those New York shops saying no to you.”

“Ah, a Canadian mutual appreciation society. My job here is done!” Tarquin puffed out his chest and tossed back a self-congratulatory swig of his dwindling boulevardier.

Simon halved some gnocchi, stabbing it with his fork. “One of the things I love most about your clothes is the one-of-a-kind aspect. It’s exactly what niche shoppers are craving, Leia—something exclusive, personalized, and ethical. The $200 to $5,000 price range means there’s a dress for every budget, too. You could really make your mark.”

“I hope so. I’d keep my fingers crossed, but then I wouldn’t be able to sew!” She laughed, scooping up a forkful of rice and tucking it in her mouth.

“Well, if you need somewhere to create while you’re here, you’re welcome to use my workroom. It’s cramped, but I have cutting mats, pattern tools, dress forms, an extra sewing machine—as long as you don’t mind its occasional temper tantrum.” Simon’s pasta finally made it beyond his lips.

Leia chewed quickly. “Really?” She covered her mouth and swallowed. “Aw, Simon, that would be amazing.”

“Wait”—Tarquin scratched his temple, his eyes bouncing up from his plate—“you’re not going to Italy?”

Oh, right. I told him that at IKEA. “No. I decided to stay with my sister for the remainder of my vacation.”

“Ol’ Islington for the win, eh? That’s brilliant!” The joy in Tarquin’s voice raised Simon’s brow, his eyes darting between the developer and the designer.

“Yeah, my sister’s happy.” And so are you, it seems. Leia popped the last piece of chicken in her mouth, oblivious to Simon’s amused glance behind a forkful of pasta.

An old-school ring blared from Simon’s phone. “Man, that’s loud. Sorry.” He set down the untouched mouthful and picked up the call. “Freds, hey.”

Leia dragged her fork through her pilaf and watched Tarquin enjoy his steak. He met her eyes again and held out his fork, offering her the final bite-size piece. Aw, he’s sweet. And so sexy. If only we were alone—but we’re not, and I need to STOP this. Her heavy stare softened into a friendly smile as she set down her cutlery on her plate. “Ooh, I wish! But I can’t.” She patted her stomach. “Thanks, though.” As she picked up her napkin, the seriousness of Simon’s voice shifted her attention away from Tarquin.

“Freddie, it’ll be fine. Just…calm down, okay?” Simon exhaled heavily. “I’ll be there soon. I’ll grab you a burger on the way…love you.” He hit disconnect and blew out his cheeks, nudging his half-eaten meal away.

“Something wrong?” asked Leia, wiping her hands.

“My fiancé. Something happened at work.”

Tarquin winced. “Aw, not again. Poor sod.”

Simon exhaled heavily and glanced at Leia, his brows dipping apologetically. “I have to go.” He tossed back the dregs of his pint and pulled out his wallet. “But you two stay, chat…”

Leia reached out, touching his forearm. “Simon, please, put your money away. I’ll get this.”

“Aw, thanks Leia.” Simon stood and put on his coat. “Next one is on me.” He stuffed his wallet back in his pocket. “And there will be a next time, right? You’ll come over, sew some dresses? I mean it. Come tomorrow! I’m open at ten and would love company.”

“Okay, sure. I promise I won’t be late this time.”

He picked up the bag of ketchup potato chips she had gifted him earlier. “Bring more of these, darling, and I’ll forgive you anything!” Simon smiled and grabbed his scarf, wrapping it around his neck.

“Done.” Leia laughed and lifted her glass.

“Cheers, Si,” said Tarquin. “Say hi to Freddie.”

“Will do.” Simon waved and then weaved through the thinning crowd, his departure stealing the table’s conversation.

And three became two. Leia took a long, leisurely sip, buying time. Should I ask him? He’s incredibly hot. But sex on Saz’s couch? Er… no. She swallowed and set her water on the table, her hands retreating to the bench and her coat pooled around her hips. I guess we could find a hotel but… walking in there with no bags,