Page 51 of Love or Your Money Back

CHAPTER

‘You’re a good friend to have,’ I tell Freddy, as we walk into the British Library, with its high ceilings and beautiful sculptures. ‘Turning up at my office with half an Italian restaurant menu and a private booking for the British Library terrace. You can come again.’

‘I’m confused.’ Freddy looks around the marble lobby. ‘This is a library, right? So where are the books?’

‘On the upper floors, mainly. See that big glass tower over there?’ I point.

‘It houses King George III’s private collection.

Not that I’m into the royal family or anything, but kings and queens have all the best books.

There’s a first edition of the Canterbury Tales in there.

A first edition! You won’t have read the Canterbury Tales of course, but –’

‘I have.’

‘Pardon me?’

‘I’ve read the Canterbury Tales.’

Kat stares. ‘Really? Did you have to read it at school?’

‘No. I just wanted to read it. It’s an interesting look at history and social class.’

‘You’re an intriguing fellow, Freddy Stark. Who would have thought a shallow salesman would enjoy reading English history? There is more to you than meets the eye.’

‘Words are at the heart of every marketing campaign.’

‘Hey, you’d better tell that security guard over there why you have bags of food. He looks about ready to beat you with his baton.’

‘Yeah. Sure.’ Freddy waves at the security guard. ‘Hello, my friend. We have a booking for the private terrace. Would you show us the way?’