"When have you ever let me win," he mock-grumbled, amusement twinkling in his own eyes. Oh yes, this was how he remembered things. Well, more or less. Well... oh, sod it. He cleared his throat slightly and nodded down the street.

"Come on then. Chips await, and I'm starving," he announced jovially, spinning the conversation once again out of uncomfortable waters. But nevertheless, almost on impulse he leaned across to slide an arm around her waist as they walked.