Jason did a double-take when Alice joined the men at the corner table.
“Hey up, lass, you look different tonight!” he eyed her critically.
“My new look after meeting Gabriel.” Her smile was bashful because she still needed to get used to her appearance herself.
“Who’s Gabriel?”
“That’s our name for the hermit.” She glanced at Gilbert.
“b****y hell, he’s been promoted to archangel status, has he? And what’s he got to do with your new look?” Jason studied her face to work out what was different.
“He taught me not to care what others think.” Alice pursed her lips, then continued: “So I decided to get rid of all that make-up, chuck the earrings and wear this tracksuit. It’s more comfortable, and I feel more relaxed.”
“Well, I prefer you with make-up.”
“I don’t give a damn what you pref
