Gemma ran up to Ryan's bedroom, and sat on the floor with her back against the door. She pulled out her phone and called Rachel.
"The little bitch." She replied after hearing Gemma describe the afternoon's events. "That venomous little snake."
Gemma giggled as Rachel did her best to distract her best friend, although she was fully aware that Sophie's constant bitchiness was beginning to wear Gemma down.
"Now get back out there and don't for a second listen to a word she says. Okay?" Rachel ordered.
"Yeah, I'll do my best. Thanks." Gemma walked over to the mirror and composed herself.
...
Back in the kitchen, she brought out some pastries that she had collected from the patisserie on the high street. As she made her way out, she noticed that Sophie was looking at her with disdain. Gemma smiled at her and offered her the plate of pastries. She pointed at the dark chocolate tart. "You might want to watch out... that one's a little bitter." Gemma said, wryly.
Ryan grinned at her and pushed his hands into his pockets. He walked towards her slowly and gave her a peck on the lips. He took the plate from her and set it down on the table and she allowed him to scoop her up into a loving hug, while his parents looked on with smiles on their faces. Sophie, on the other hand, wasted no time in gathering her things together and announcing her departure. Her husband, Mark, clenched his jaw shut.
"Sophie, there is no need to be rude." Her father, usually incredibly jovial, remarked. "I think you are right to be leaving, especially after being such an ungracious guest. I'm surprised Gemma didn't kick you out herself."
Sophie's face had turned scarlet. She marched out of the front door, letting it slam shut behind her leaving her toddler and husband behind. Mark looked aghast. He nodded at Gemma by way of apology and took his son to the car, bidding the rest of the family farewell.
..
By the time everything was tidied away, and Ryan's parents had left, it was terribly late. Gemma rubbed her eyes as she looked at the delicate silver watch on her wrist. Ryan pulled her on to his lap and kissed her softly. She allowed herself to get lost in the taste of his mouth, the way his hands were sliding up her thighs... He pulled away, pushing her hair out of her eyes, and looked into them. He opened his mouth to speak but no sound came out, well, nothing but a barely audible whisper. But his lips moved, and Gemma's eyes caught their every movement. There was no mistaking it. She kissed him hard, and moaned into his mouth, "I love you, too."
