“I’m somewhat pathetically relieved then,” she smiled—a gentle laugh escaping her. “Of course, I wouldn’t breathe a word of it to another soul.” Grateful of the sun-kissed warmth that spread across her shoulder, she stretched legs out; toes pointing to an angle which only a ballet student could achieve without pain. “Lulubelle Duncan. Although, I’m sure you’ll manage to contract that into something shorter.”
“Hey, that’s alright.” He smiled back, his laugh matching hers. “You’re a kind, kind soul.” He rolled his neck to each side, stretching from the awful night’s sleep he’d had on the lawn. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Lulubelle Duncan. I don’t see why I’d have to contract that, it’s not a mouthful at all, in comparison.”









