Page 10 of Bad Star

“Nearly there,” said Jack.

“I’m scared,” squealed Rainn, laughing and pulling back.

Suddenly, the cork was released with an almighty bang. It flew across the kitchen, narrowly missing Rainn’s head and pinged against a pan hanging on the wall as if it were a gong. A flume of foam curved from the lip of the bottle and gushed up from between Jack’s thighs towards Rainn.

There was a moment of stunned silence then Rainn screamed and everyone laughed.

“What the hell happened?” asked Rainn, looking bewildered.

Jack took a cloth and was wiping away the bubbles that were foaming white against Rainn’s black dress.

“I’m sorry,” he said.

“It’s fine, Jack, don’t worry,” Yvonne said.

“Wow,” said Rainn, holding a hand over her mouth. “Now I think I need a drink.”

Jack had brought a set of champagne flutes and he poured out the glasses.

“Cheers,” he said and they all raised a toast.

“Wow,” said Yvonne. “This is some champagne.”

“It really is,” nodded John.

“It’s not too bad, is it?” said Jack, as if he harboured some doubts.

“Probably when you drink it every day it doesn’t quite seem so amazing,” mocked John. “You probably get used to it.”

“Oh, I don’t drink it every day,” said Jack, making it clear that there may just be days when he only drinks wine.

“Well, I could certainly get used to this,” signed Rainn. “It’s heavenly.”

They sat down and ate dinner. Despite Yvonne and Rainn’s attempts to play it down, it was a very good meal with Jack and John both enthusiastic with their praise.

“I enjoy cooking,” explained Rainn, “but I’m sure I’m not very good at it.”

“You’re very modest,” said John.

“Either very modest or you honestly have no idea how exceptional you are,” said Jack. “Exceptional at many things and in many ways.”

Rainn blushed. “Well, if you will excuse me a moment, I shall have to go and clean myself up after all the cooking and eating.”

She rose from the table and Yvonne rose with her. “My make-up assistant will come with me,” said Rainn, laughing. “You’re in showbiz, Jack, you know how it is.”

“Of course,” said Jack, standing politely, “I have one myself.”

When the sisters had left he sat down. “More champagne?” he asked John.

“A little,” said John.

When Jack had placed down the bottle, John asked, “What are you playing at?”

“I’m sorry,” said Jack, genuinely surprised.

“What’s your game with Rainn?”

Jack turned his chair so that he was facing John. “There’s no game,” he said. “I like her and I want to spend time with her.”