Yeah,” I said. “And that thing you just did...”“This?” he inquired, puckering his lips again at me.“Yes, that. The blowfish beat you to that, jackass. How do you like jackass?”“Heeeeeeee-HAW!” he cried, punching both fists into the air. “Stick to something more loving though. Then I won’t have the urge to bray every time you call me.

If you think it's charming to be overbearing,” I said.“I do, I do!” she said. “I adore strong alpha males and he's the only one that's ever managed to make me feel weak and womanly.” She grinned at my expression. “Want a word of advice?” she said. “Study him. Seriously. Characters like him drive half the romance market.

The little runt is my little brother. The baby son of my mother there. Try and be a little respectful.”“Gawd, Auntie, of course, I didn't mean any disrespect!” said Declan, turning at once to Mum. “You can't think that! Why, I love that little sod like he was a pest from my own home infestation.

Who’s it?” said Conor Larkin, appearing in the adjoining balcony, followed by Ricky and Jason.“The Turtle from the Train Station,” said Guy.Right, I thought, that’s the impression I made. He remembers me as an honorary member of the reptile family.

I need to read that,” said the busker, his grin widening. “Looks like something I might enjoy.”“It’s a romance for women,” I said, curtly.“That makes it not safe for men or something, that’s what you’re telling me? What’s that fellow doing there with her in that case?

Why should I ignore them? In my own house? Spiteful snobs! I’ve appalling taste, do I? I’m skeletal, am I? Anyone would look skeletal next to them. They are both starting to look like porkers! As soon as I go down, I’m going to mention it. I’m going to particularly point out Isolde’s thunder thighs. I suppose it’s appalling good taste to display them in such tight jeans. I’m going to ask how she even got into those pants without splitting the seams.