Invite Léa to the pub

"Do you fancy a drink?"

The moment the words are out of your mouth, you know you've misread the situation. The lectrice is clearly uncomfortable with the idea of going out with you, especially as she's in a relationship, albeit a long distance one, but she doesn't feel able to refuse outright, leading to an excruciating moment of indecision.

Thinking quickly, you add, "purely as work colleagues, you understand. I'd invite your bloke too, if he were around, but on second thoughts you probably don't want to be out too late on a work night."

With a smile of relief, the attractive blonde replies. "That is true, Jaques, but I am up to date with my tasks for the day, so I can afford an hour or so and I'd love to go for a drink with you, if the offer is still open. Where I come from, a glass of wine in an evening is no bad thing."

Léa allows you to choose the venue, since you know the area far better. You pick a pub within walking distance that's not known for catering primarily to students, although you expect that the incidence of rowdy academics getting smashed on cheap booze is rather less now that the whole student body is female and readily spankable.

The Coxswain is named for the popularity of college rowing that takes place on the nearby river, but aside from a couple of old ceremonial oars commemorating successful eights from years gone by, the decor is bright, but by no means nautical. Although generally busy, the pub is usually fairly quiet, due to a discerning clientele. However, as soon as you enter, you notice that things are a bit more animated than you expected.