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Tonight was just like every other night. A long, empty evening stretched out before Allison, nothing to do and no one to share it with. She could start that new novel she’d picked up last week, or begin looking through those files from Sir Toby even though she should really do that at work…
A sharp knock on her door echoed through the flat. Allison flinched. It’s probably Ian with some urgent new lead that needs chasing, she thought bitterly.
“Coming,” she called and sighed deeply as she got up and opened the door.
Rachel stood in the doorway, smiling softly. Allison, open mouthed, took in her shimmering black dress and carefully styled hair and makeup.
“You mentioned you had nothing planned tonight?” Rachel’s smile deepened.
“Oh, um, of course. I’ll just be a minute,” Allison blurted. Why had the room gotten hotter all of a sudden?
Rachel took a seat in the living room while Allison scrambled around in her wardrobe for something suitable. She settled on a dark skirt and a long-sleeved shirt with a cardigan. Hopefully not too casual. It had been a while since she’d gone on a proper date. Which this wasn’t. Obviously.
“So, where are you taking me?” Allison smiled brightly as she re-entered the room. Rachel’s face glowed in the yellow lamplight.
“I’ve booked us a table at one of my favourite restaurants, and I thought we could go for a walk afterwards, down by the river.”
“Rachel, you really didn’t need to,” Allison protested. “I’m alright, really.”
“Nonsense. Goodness knows you need something like this after that whole business with Julian, and the radiation poisoning. I’ve parked my car outside, it’s only a short drive.”
Rachel gazed down at her, offering her arm and Allison felt her breath catch in her chest.