Chapter 57

Obviously we talk about books, and we start a discussion about Stephen King, arguing which titles are his best and which should be avoided. Then Sean tells me about Ireland again and, for the first time, I really feel a desire to see those landscapes, to smell those perfumes, to hear that music.

We realize it’s late only when the waiter starts putting the chairs up on the tables. We look at each other, astonished, and chuckle, standing up to leave.

“I’ll pay,” Sean says, taking out his wallet.

“Oh, no!” I answer, putting my hand on his arm to stop him. I don’t wait for his reply, nor do I turn around and look at him as I head for the bar. Maybe it’s the beer, or maybe the endorphins from such a pleasant night, but I feel particularly sensitive to his charm.

“Then I’ll pay next time…”