As I walked into the pub I saw Andy sitting at a table with Paula, they were deep in conversation so I headed straight to the bar. Having got myself a soft drink I sat checking my phone and quickly composed and sent a text. After a few minutes I was aware of movement to my right as I was joined at the bar by Andy.
"Glad you could make it" he said looking straight ahead but his face having his big customary grin.
"No worries, she's still unaware we have planned this?"
"Not at all, we are down here staying in a hotel around the corner. She has agreed if we 'bump into' someone she is prepared to consider giving it a go"
"But, unaware you and I have discussed it in advance?"
"No, its good to finally meet you. Next round of drinks I will send Paula up to get them and you can bump into her"
Andy took his two glasses and returned to the table.
Placing the glasses on the table Andy sat down.
"What were you saying to the guy at the bar? Hope you weren't asking him if he fancied helping you out!"
Laughing Andy replied "As if, just asked if this pub gets busy and did he have any recommendations as we are not from round here"
"Honestly, you talk to everyone" she said smiling at her husband.
"Nothing wrong with being friendly" he said as he raised his glass to hers. As the two glasses clicked together he grinned "Here is to bumping into someone interesting"
He noticed her face change slightly.
"Are you okay." He asked.
"Yes. Okay but if I am honest I am nervous and cannot believe I agreed to your devious ideas" she said looking up at him.
"Look, we are having a night away in the capital. It's not likely we will meet someone is it? Even if it did happen you know you have total control and can stop at any point."
"Ok. We will have to see"
They continued talking as I sat at a table away from them and I tried to appear engrossed in my phone. The time past and I tried not to be seen looking at Paula. Occasionally she flicked her shoulder length hair as she talked and they both seemed relaxed.
Paula got up from the table and walked to the bar. Her dark dress was long with bright flowery patterns and the neckline showed her fantastic cleavage. Once she was at the bar I drained my glass and made my way over.
Standing next to her at the bar I breathed in her perfume and we both waited as the bar man served other customers.
"Evening" I said to her.
"Hi" She replied.
As the barman approached us I raised my hand "This beautiful lady is first but I insist I buy her drink"
Turning to me she raised her eyebrow "I happen to be with my husband actually!"
"I know and I would love to buy your drinks as you are guests visiting it is the least I can do"
She turned and gave her order to the barman and he got the two drinks. I placed my order and she thanked me picked up her two glasses and made her way to her husband. I took my soft drink paid the bill but this time made my way to Andy and Paula.
Reaching their table Paula looked unhappy and I raised my hand apologetically "I am so sorry if I caused any offense. It was good to speak to you earlier and you look such a nice couple I wanted to say hi. I am intrigued as to what brings you to the city?"
Andy laughed "No worries, sit down and we can chat."
I sat opposite and noted Paula pulled herself close to her husband. I raised my glass to him we chinked glasses and then I turned to her and she slowly raised her glass and chinked mine.
"So what brings you to here? Most people come with plans and have booked tickets but from your question early I was surprised you do not have plans."
Andy looked at Paula and said " To be honest we fancy a night away, the break would do use good. Like everyone 2020 and 2021 could have been better"
Your're not kidding" I said laughing. "So no plans?"
Paula laughed.
"What's funny?" I asked.