"Just arranged for a freelance photographer to take a photo of the back of the inn for the owner. He's been thinking of putting it on the market and wanted something to show the local estate agents. High interest rates, taxes and such like make small inns like this uneconomical these days. Got more of a picture than I expected. Didn't really know what to do with it, sir. Could send the negative to you at your home if you like, when it comes back (wait for the horrified objection). It's no good to me. You may like it as a memento of a good time. I had to pay the photographer of course for his time. Well thank you sir, I don't mind being reimbursed."

He didn't feel bad about what he was doing and anyway these days any income was good income. After all it was a perfectly natural thing they were doing. Similar events were happening in the open air of the hedgerows and woods all around. From experience he felt sure they were on an illicit holiday romance together.

He'd never had trouble before with other couples that had enjoyed the room and some had paid quite highly for the pictures. One had even asked for an enlargement and another couple had also asked for a repeat photo call to increase their portfolio of pictures.

Or maybe he would put them on his web page – his regular members like to have new blood to look at. Yes! That was more like it and it meant no confrontation with the big man. He'd get right onto that the next day.



Some hours later, it was midday and Peter, just recovered from his latest afterglow, was again perusing with great thoroughness the pages of the local Saturday paper.

"Nice area", he commented. "And not expensive - lots of people getting out and selling up - cheap. Good time to buy. Wouldn't mind having a bit of a look - if you don't mind being dragged around a few estate agents."

Sarah, seated at the small dressing table and putting the finishing touches to her face, reacted indignantly.

"Would it really matter what I wanted, she said indignantly. " The last time I objected to anything, I was ignored - remember?"



Her glare made her position on that episode very clear.

"Women like a strong man. It makes them feel well looked after", commented Peter, languidly, completely unconcerned at her outburst.

"That's settled then and while we're out we'll get you something else to wear. For a good looking woman you are travelling remarkable light."

Sarah didn't have a big wardrobe at the best of times. The children always had to come first. Even David had to have respectable work clothes for his job. She came last in the pecking order. Plus of course she hadn't expected to be staying this long - but she could hardly say that to Peter.

They wandered down to the reception and were greeted with a friendly professional smile.

"We'll stay for another night", said Peter. "But could you arrange for the cleaner to come in a bit later tomorrow - about lunchtime would do."

"Of course, sir", said the landlord reassuringly. "The country air makes everyone want to sleep in and it's a lovely room to spend time in together."

He appraised Sarah politely. A small man with a round face and a small double chin. The dark suit and tie he wore were in keeping with his role but there was a hint of cheek in his eyes.

"And may I say how lovely you are looking today m'dear."

Sarah found herself, reddening slightly.