CHAPTER TWO HUNDRED AND SEVENTY TWO – RICHARD’S FRIEND

"Sabrina!" he exclaimed, standing up to embrace her properly. "What on earth are you doing here?" The woman – Sabrina – was strikingly beautiful, with long, dark hair and piercing green eyes. She clung to Richard, laughing melodiously. "I was in the area and thought I'd surprise you! Oh, it's so good to see you!" Charlotte stood awkwardly, feeling suddenly out of place. Richard seemed to remember her presence and turned, still beaming. "Charlotte, this is Sabrina," he said. "We met on holiday in Greece last year. Sabrina, this is Charlotte, my girlfriend." Sabrina's eyes flickered over Charlotte, taking in her pub uniform and messy ponytail. "Charmed," she said, her tone just shy of dismissive. Turning back to Richard, she grasped his arm. "Darling, you simply must catch me up on everything I've missed!" Charlotte felt a twinge of discomfort at Sabrina's overly familiar behavior. "It's nice to meet you," she said politely. "I'm afraid I have to get back to work, though. My break's