Once bitten...

Lynn remembers the start of a romance... and its end. Or could there be a surprise ahead?

- A short story by Audrey Parkinson

Lynn rinsed the breakfast pots absentmindedly — her thoughts miles away.

Even now, after some time, some memories had the ability to make her feel anger, betrayal, and the worst of emotions - self-pity.

Lynn was in her mid-30s — there was nothing especially glamorous about her. She was just a pleasant, ordinary girl who worked for a publishing company, a woman like so many others of the same age.

At the moment, she was working from home, but her thoughts kept wondering.

Today was her former fiancé's wedding day, but she could not in all honesty wish him a happy day or a successful future life.

She had met George at a book fair in London. The fair was held in a one of those big hotels with a conference centre attached, and was extremely busy. To make matters worse, it was a warm day, and the venue was doing a roaring trade in cold drinks.

As Lynn jostled her way to the crowded bar, a voice at her side said: "I think we would be better looking for another hotel close by!"

"Yes, I agree," said Lynn. "I think I'll do just that."

"Would you mind if I came with you? I'm George, by the way."