Chapter 4Two full days passed before Stephen had the opportunity to return to The Bell. He wondered if Ioan would be there, or even worse, in a quiet corner getting to know another, better-looking young man.
Mired in doubt, he vacillated on the doorstep before being swept in by a group of thirsty patrons. To his relief, he was greeted by Beth with a warm smile who called over her shoulder to her cousin. Ioan looked around with a beaming grin and bounced up to Stephen. “I hoped you’d be back,” he said which made Stephen smile with relief.
“I’ve been kept late at my desk until today,” Stephen explained.
“You’re here now,” Ioan beamed. “And in good time. I was going out to drink with the other players before coming back here later to help. Will you come with me?”
Stephen gladly agreed. He
