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Dinner Party

“You must be Ann,” Fiona says smiling as she shakes her hand. Benjamin has told her about Ann and Fiona is happy to finally meet her. “Come in.” She says as she invites them in.

“Hi Nick,” Benjamin says inviting them in. “Good to see you, Ann.”

“Hi Ben,” Ann says as everyone greets each other and sits down in the living room.

“I have heard so much about you,” Fiona says.

“I’m sorry I haven’t heard much about you though,” Ann replies.

“It's alright,” Fiona says smiling. “Ben doesn’t like to admit he has a beautiful sister.”

“Beautiful? You?” Ben replies sarcastically as Fiona smacks him in the head, as the group laugh. With such a lovely start, the group continue to make small talk. Soon the men go to the kitchen to get a few drinks, then Fiona leans in and talks to Ann.

“You are a miracle worker. Tom and I have been trying to get him to go for counselling for months but he just never listened,” Fiona says.

“He still needs counselling,” Ann replies. “He hasn’t shown up for a few weeks.”

“Is that so?” Fiona asks. “I’m sure he will start again. Just give him time, this was so difficult for him.”

“I know,” Ann replies sympathetically as they are joined by the men.

“What were you two whispering about?” Nicholas asks.

“Probably Fiona’s new man,” Benjamin says smiling.

“Really?” Ann asks.

“Yes, after years and years of being single. She is finally taking a chance,” Benjamin says.

“He’s right,” Fiona replies happily. “This is my second relationship and my first serious one.”

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“Wow,” Ann says. She secretly feels relieved knowing that she is not the only one who has not been in a serious relationship prior to this.

“Fiona was always very picky when it came to men,” Benjamin says. “She only wanted the best or no one at all. And I have to say I think I like this is the guy. She seems really happy because of him, unlike the first guy.”

“He was a jerk and I was a kid, what else to say,” Fiona says smiling. “Besides, I know you’ll like my boyfriend Ben, he’s amazing and sweet and,” Fiona then realises she is going on and on about her boyfriend and gets embarrassed. “Enough about me, what about you?”

“Well,” Ann blushes as she looks at Nicholas.

“Ann is one of a kind,” Nicholas replies. “That’s all I have to say.” Nicholas looks at Ann passionately as Ann holds her hand.

“Get a room,” Ben says as all of them laugh. Ann notices Benjamin’s change in behaviour. He is so different from the man she met on the bridge, he is now smiling. Despite knowing he has a long way to go, she’s happy. This improvement warms her heart. Just then the doorbell rings and Fiona gets up enthusiastically.

“I think it's him,” Fiona says as she excitedly goes to open the door. She smiles brightly as she brings in her boyfriend. Fiona walks in with flowers, while holding her boyfriend’s hand. “Everyone, I would like you to meet…”

“Oscar?” Ann says as she sees Fiona holding her brothers hand.

“Ann?” Oscar says.

“What are you doing here?” Benjamin asks as he stands up aggressively.

“I think I should be the one asking that question,” Oscar replies.

“This is my house,” Benjamin replies.

“Wait, how do you know my brother?” Fiona asks looking confused.

“That’s my brother,” Ann says standing up.

“And the guy that accused me of killing Scarlet!” Benjamin replies as Fiona’s smile fades as she lets go of Oscar’s hand and steps away, looking at him with disgust.

“Ruby, I,” Fiona then interrupts Oscar.

“How could you think my brother would do something like that?” She asks. “No! How could you harass my brother like that!”

“Harass? I didn’t,” Oscar says trying to explain himself.

“You did!” Benjamin says as he comes forward and stands next to Fiona. “And now answer my question. Why are you here?” Oscar keeps quiet for a moment, realizing that he is in love with Benjamin’s sister. “You better not be playing with my sister’s feelings!”

“I would never,” Oscar shouts.

“Don’t shout at him,” Fiona says defending Benjamin.

“Ruby I swear. I had no idea he was your brother,” Oscar says.

“As if that changes anything,” Benjamin says approaching Oscar. “You would do anything to try and get to me wouldn’t you.”

“Ben!” Ann says now getting angry. “I admit Oz has his faults but he would never.”

“Shut up Ann! Why hasn’t anyone taught you to shut up!” Benjamin says in a cold dominating voice startling everyone.

“Hey!” Nicholas shouts moves to Ann’s side holding her.

“No one talks to my sister that way!” Oscar says getting in Benjamin’s face. Just then the front door swings open.