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Dinner was a victory celebration. Four friends, still flushed with the success of seeing Prescott’s takeover bid hit the floor, for a year at least. Macauley had won the day and turned the tide from an uncertain future for Bradcliff’s, to one of hope.
“I’d like to propose a toast to Macauley” Andy said raising his glass. He looked at her from across the table, “Here’s to the most wonderful woman I’ve ever had the privilege of working with. Let’s hope she’ll never leave us.” he smiled and continued, “And I’d just like to add that we value her friendship almost as much as we value her cooking.” He grinned and said in a low, gentle voice, “To Macauley, may she be blessed with great love and much happiness.”, and he raised his glass.
“To Macauley, and her great food.” James and Noni echoed, touching their glasses.
“Why thank you Andy.” Macauley said, her cheeks were flushed and her eyes glistened with sudden tears. “This has been a very special day for all of us.’ She looked at each of them before continuing, “As you all know friends have always been important to me, but today I realised for the first time, that it really doesn’t matter how much we offer our friendship to others, they decide if they’ll accept or reject it. It’s always their choice, and it can’t be forced. It doesn’t matter how much we love the another person, friendship is the gift we offer, but they give.’ She stopped abruptly, embarrassed. Standing suddenly she said, “God that’s a mouthful isn’t it?’ The others nodded, “Well speaking of mouthfuls, it’s time I got the dessert.
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