He went on rather anxiously, ' I hope you didn't mind my inviting your cousin and her friend to this opening with us. It was just—well, he seems pretty much of a man of the world, and if the restaurant is any good, he could spread the word among his company executives. After all, Tristan Construction are going to be moving in very soon now—practically taking over, in fact.' Laura winced. 'Will the town ever survive it?' she asked rather ironically. Alan looked surprised. 'But it's a marvellous thing for everyone. More building, increased trade—benefits all round.' She shrugged, 'Then that's all that needs to be said.' Her voice sounded high, and just a little strident, and he gave her an uneasy sideways glance. He could see the evening going wrong before his eyes, she thought with swift compunction, and tried to make amends. 'I'm sorry—I'm just a little uptight. It's been quite a day, one way and another. But I'm sure itis going to be a lovely evening,' she added gently.
