‘I do love an outing when a bit of bunking-off is involved,’ said Gilly. ‘Will you pick me up? Or shall I meet you somewhere. I’ve got to do some shopping so it would be no trouble.’

‘I’d prefer to pick you up, if you don’t mind, then it’s more like a date and less like an estate agent’s appointment.’

Gilly laughed and shortly afterwards they disconnected.

William lived in a nearby town that was famous for its antique shops. Fortunately it also had a fair number of very nice places to eat. He took her to a Italian wine bar that was also a delicatessen where he was greeted like an old friend.

‘William! Your table is free. I’ll bring the board over when you’re settled.’ The proprietor gave Gilly a bow that was respectful and curious at the same time.

‘Hello, Franco. This is my good friend Gilly.’

Gilly dipped her head nervously and smiled back; then she followed them to the table.

‘I’m not going to bother to ask if you come here often,’ she said when they were both seated.

He laughed. ‘It is my regular. I live very nearby.’

‘A town house?’

‘Yes.’

‘I can’t wait to see it.’

‘Could you imagine yourself living in a town, Gilly?’

Gilly thought about it. ‘This is a very nice town. Lovely shops, lovely places to eat—’ She guessed he was showing her his home before asking if she’d like to move in with him. It was terribly early days. While she was completely sure of William, she wasn’t sure she was ready to throw up her life to be with him. It made her very twitchy.

He laughed, aware she wasn’t answering his question.

‘What are you going to have to eat?’ she asked.

‘I usually have whatever Franco tells me is best. It saves me having to decide.’

‘I’m not good at decision-making either,’ said Gilly, ‘if it doesn’t particularly matter.’

‘But if it does matter?’

‘I’m usually OK on those.’

Franco came up. ‘So, what can I get you?’

‘What’s the special?’ asked William.

‘Asparagus with a little pasta,’ said Franco.

‘That sounds delicious,’ said Gilly.

‘We’ll have two of those then.’ He looked at Gilly. ‘A glass of wine?’

‘Yes, please,’ said Gilly. Wine would help.

‘A glass of wine for my friend, sparkling water for me,’ said William.

‘It’s the first asparagus I’ve had this year,’ said Gilly when they had been served. ‘And I’ve never thought of having it with pasta.’

‘I suppose it comes naturally to an Italian, to put pasta with things.’

It was completely delicious.

‘You are so lucky living near here!’ said Gilly enthusiastically. It was always a safe thing to say.

‘I am,’ said William, ‘but it has its downsides.’

‘Really?’

‘Not that near the gliding club, for example.’