Free Executive Affair by Ber Carroll Page A

Den moved out. He’d met another girl, Jackie. Fiona pretended not to care, but Claire could tell that she was upset.
    Claire was more than happy to discard the draughty sunroom for Den’s bedroom. He had barely closed the door behind him when she ran in to inspect it. The walls were a shabby magnolia, the floorboards dull and aching for some varnish.
    â€˜It’s a bit grotty,’ she said, ‘but all it needs is a good lick of paint.’ She checked her watch. ‘If we went to the mall right now, I’d be able to get it finished today.’
    â€˜I’m not really in the mood for shopping – particularly not for paint!’ Fiona protested.
    â€˜It’ll do you good … keep busy … it’s the best cure for a broken heart … and I should know.’
    For a moment Fiona looked as if she was going to dispute the broken heart bit but she let it go.
    It took only an hour to choose a soft lilac paint, a colour that Den would have hated. Claire also bought a patterned rug for the floor, some new bed linen and a bedside lamp. She would have liked to get a few more things but didn’t want to test Fiona’s patience.
    â€˜If you think I’m going to help you paint, you’re sadly mistaken,’ Fiona said grumpily, as she flopped down on the couch when they got back.
    â€˜You don’t need to worry yourself, I know what I’m doing. It’ll only take an hour or two.’
    Claire put on the radio, turned the volume up high, and began with gusto. Two hours later she came out, defeated. Fiona was sitting in the same spot.
    â€˜I haven’t even got halfway through. My neck is killing me and I swear to God I’m high from the smell,’ she complained, joining Fiona on the couch.
    â€˜See, it’s not as easy as it looks. And this is the weekend – we’re meant to be relaxing not working ,’ Fiona said unsympathetically.
    â€˜What do you mean “working”?’ Claire was indignant. ‘You’ve been sitting on your fat bum all day. I’d be finished by now if you had helped me!’
    â€˜I would have helped only I’m very … fragile at the moment.’
    Claire made a sad face. ‘Because of Den …’
    Fiona nodded, tears smarting in her eyes. ‘I know I have no right to mind about him and Jackie. We finished a long time ago. But it was a big mistake not to make a clean break. It was comfortable to sleep with him on nights where neither of us had someone else … I just got used to him always being there … now I feel so lonely without him …’
    â€˜Poor Fi …’ Claire gave her a clumsy hug.
    Fiona pushed her away. ‘You smell of paint.’
    â€˜So much for trying to help!’
    â€˜If you want to help, you can go out and get drunk with me tonight.’
    â€˜Here.’ Claire handed Fiona her drink. ‘This should make you feel better.’
    The bar was packed. It was difficult to find even standing space.
    Fiona threw back her drink. ‘What does Den see in this Jackie that he doesn’t see in me?’
    â€˜I don’t know. You’re gorgeous and smart and witty. He can’t possibly do better.’
    â€˜That’s enough,’ Fiona giggled, ‘you’re making me want to gag.’
    â€˜Claire?’ She felt someone tap her shoulder. She turned around.
    â€˜James,’ she said with a surprised smile.
    James looked every bit the surfer, with his streaked hair, Rip Curl T-shirt and faded jeans. Claire saw a spark of interest in Fiona’s eyes.
    â€˜Hey, this is my mate, Paul. Paul, this is Claire, my Irish boss.’
    Paul’s blue eyes stared at her, magnified by silver-framedglasses that made him look charmingly studious. His fair hair had a slight curl and he had a rather cute smile. ‘I’ve heard a lot about you from James.’
    â€˜Good things, I’m sure,’ Claire