Better late THAN NEVER

Hilary was stunned and puzzled. Why had her friend kept such a big secret?

What!' Hilary gasped as she glanced at her phone. Dave looked up and came to stand behind her. 'Peter and Pam have announced their engagement!'

'The Bradshaws?'

'Yes. Is it some kind of joke?' Hilary asked.

'Perhaps they just never got around to getting married,' Dave said, clearly losing interest.

'But we've known them for 20-odd years. Our boys grew up together.'

'It's their business,' said Dave, picking up his coffee and the paper, and going over to sit by the window. Hilary stared at her phone in disbelief.

'Have you replied then?' Dave asked.

'What should I say?

That we're pleased, or shocked?' She was doing her best to keep back the tears. 'You Ig I che probably think I'm stupid, but it feels like a betrayal.' 'I think you're overreacting, but then you and Pam are close.

Just say congratulations and be done with it.' Hilary took her husband's advice and sent their congrats. She wanted to add the well-known fact that she'd never been a bridesmaid!

Later, while preparing tea, Hilary was still stunned by her friend's announcement.

'I can't believe Pam never said anything,' she said.

'How many people have you actually told that we are married?' Dave asked.