“If you’re worried about him telling people you’re here, then don’t. I’ve known Joel a long time. He won’t mention it. But maybe we should talk about increasing security, just in case.”

“No need. I won’t be here.” Nicole headed back into the boathouse toward Milly’s study that she’d used as a bedroom.

Confused, Milly followed her and saw Nicole push the last of her things into her small suitcase.

“You’re leaving?”

“I have to. Coming here was a mistake. I’ve made things difficult for you and also for me, and it isn’t going to work.” She zipped the case. “I have a cab picking me up in thirty minutes. I used the name Silvia Coates by the way, in case he goes to Reception.”

“Wait. Slow down.” Milly’s head was spinning. She hadn’t wanted Nicole to come, had she? So why was she feeling so upset at the thought of her leaving? “Are you leaving because Joel knows you’re here? He—”

“It’s not just that, although I don’t trust people as easily as you do so I’m not going to pretend it doesn’t play a part. I’m leaving because being here isn’t helping. I was running away from my life, and I ran to the only person I’ve ever been able to trust. You. My best friend. My only real friend. It was a reflex action. When I’m in trouble I reach out to you.” Her voice cracked, and she cleared her throat. “But things are awkward. And it’s my fault. When you were in trouble, I wasn’t there for you. I blew the most precious thing in my life. And I’m sorry for that. Sorrier than you’ll ever know. If I could turn the clock back I’d do everything differently, but that only ever happens in movies. So we’ll both just move on, and I don’t expect you to forgive me or believe me when I say that if you ever need me in the future, then reach out and I’ll be there for you. Whenever it is, whatever you need, I’ll be there.”

Milly wasn’t sure she did believe her because once a person had let you down once they could let you down again, couldn’t they? But she sounded sincere, and underneath the blond wig and the purple glasses Milly saw vulnerability and a sheen of tears.

She could see that Nicole was suffering. And just like that all the hurt and defensiveness that had been making her boil inside vanished. She’d been determined to keep her distance, but now she realized that however strained things were, however difficult, the bond between them was still there and probably always would be.

“I don’t want you to leave.”