17. Scarlet Feather, Maeve Binchy

"She knew that he was patting her down. 'but seriously Neil, wasnt it brilliant?"
'It wasnt necessary, hon'
'It was essential,' Cathy said with total conviction.
'What are you trying to prove?'
'That she hasn't won.'
'But you proved that, Cathy, long ago'
'No i havent'
'I married you, didnt I? What other batteground has she got to fight on?'

16. The Tea House on Mulbery Street, Sharon Owens

They laughed and smiled all the time, and had numerous friends and interests. The secret of their happiness , they said, was that they were never foolish enough to get married.