“Rosseta’s beef lasagne is to die for,” James said. “I fear since I’ve been living in London I may have eaten my entire body weight in it.”

Rosseta laughed. “But that is good. You are a big man. You need food, and Italian food is the best. Better than all the rest.”

“I agree,” James said.

“Come, come this way.” She crooked her finger. “I have you the best table. The very best.”

“Thank you.” James indicated for Megan to follow Rosseta.

They went up a slim set of steps, several of which were wonky, and emerged onto a small balcony area that had half a dozen tables set on it. Each was dressed in pristine white linen and had a single red rose in a slim vase in the centre. Candles were set about, their flames shivering gently and casting shadows up the walls. Two tables were already occupied by couples talking quietly and sipping wine.

“Here,” Rosseta said, pulling a chair out from the farthest table. It was set in a slight recess, away from the others and provided both privacy and a nice view of the restaurant, as well as out onto the street.

“Thank you.” Megan sat and placed her purse on her lap.

“You would like champagne, yes?” Rosseta looked at James expectantly.

“If that’s what Megan would like,” he said.

Megan smiled. Oh, she was getting spoilt. “That sounds lovely.”

“Then yes, a bottle please, and is it okay if I leave the car out the front overnight?”

“Of course, of course. I will keep close eye on it for you.” She narrowed her eyes and glanced outside.

James smiled and sat.

Rosseta bustled off.

“We’ll use a cab,” James said. “I fancy a glass or two of champagne. It’s not every day of the week I get such lovely company for dinner.”

“You’re very kind.”

“I’m honest.” He poured two glasses of water from a jug that held lemon slices and ice cubes. “And just so I don’t worry if you’ve arrived home safely, the cab will drop you off at your place, then me back near here. I’ll feel better that way.”

“That’s not necessary.”

“I insist.”

“Well, thank you very much.” She didn’t want to think about the end of the evening. They’d only just arrived. Only just started their date. Besides, the thought of more than a cab ride home at the end of the night was growing more and more appealing as she looked at James.

The guy was hot.

Seriously hot!