Rowan: Um – Effie wanted me to ask you – do you want to go to hers for Christmas dinner? With me?
Jake: Really?
Rowan: Yes, really! That is, if you think you can stand being stuck with grumpy old me on Christmas day.
Jake: Well, I think I could stand it! I’d like that. That’s so nice of Effie to ask…I’d really like that!
Rowan: I’ll let her know, then. Hey, I’m really pleased – I thought you might have other plans – family to visit. I don’t know anything about your family. You must have met all of mine in the pub! I don’t mean I want you to introduce me to your mother or anything…
Rowan: Jake – ?
Rowan: I’m sorry – I’ve upset you. You don’t want to talk about this, do you?
Jake: No it’s okay. It’s just – hard.
Rowan: We’ll change the subject…
Jake: I lost both my parents last year – within weeks of each other. It was so unexpected –
Rowan: I’m sorry, Jake.
Jake: It just hits me sometimes…I’ll tell you about them some time; but not today.
Rowan: I’d like to hear about them – when you’re ready.
Jake: They were talking about moving out this way. I used to own a nightclub in the city. It started to seem so shallow. When I saw the Frog and Fiddle on the market, I just thought – well, change of pace, change of scene…
Rowan: Has it worked out how you wanted?
Jake: Better. I like the village – the sense of community. I’ve made some good friends here; everyone’s been really welcoming. I like all the regulars in the pub. I like being part of the world’s worst pub football team. And of course, there’s you…My parents would have loved it here. I just wish – oh it’s no good wishing, is it?
Rowan: Your hands are cold. Let’s go home – my place – and we can talk in the warm. Sadie bought some huge cappuccino cups; I’ll make you hot chocolate with a whole packet of mini marshmallows on top.
Jake: I don’t really like marshmallows…
Rowan: Well – how about a whole can of vanilla flavoured squirty cream, with white chocolate buttons?
Jake: Yes…I think I’d like that.
Jake: Rowan, I’m glad I’ve got you. Well, when I say I’ve got you – I don’t mean, you know – oh I don’t know what I’m trying to say.
Rowan: It’s okay, I think I understand – and you have got me.
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