‘Darling, of course I’d rescue you! If I didn’t, or couldn’t, there would be no point in my being in your life,’ he said, holding her and murmuring into her hair. ‘I’d go through fire for you!’ He paused. ‘Although I must say, punching someone hurts so much more than I ever thought it could.’

Gilly instantly went into caring mode. ‘Oh, William! Come with me to the downstairs loo. I’ve got some arnica and plasters and things.’

‘I’m not sure I need a plaster.’

‘If you’ve broken a finger I’ll have to stick it to the next finger—’

‘I’m sure I haven’t broken anything,’ said William, following Gilly.

‘Let me just have a look.’

He allowed her to put arnica on it and they were still crammed together in the tiny bathroom when he said, ‘Is there time for me to have a cup of coffee before the guests arrive?’

‘Of course! You arrived early – thank goodness.’

‘I know. I’m so glad. My errand took less time than I allowed for it.’

Gilly found her curiosity piqued. ‘Was it anything exciting?’

‘Hardly,’ said William. ‘I’m a boring accountant.’

She laughed, all her fear dissipated. ‘Boring accountants are absolutely my favourite kind,’ she said and kissed him.

Helena found them in there. ‘Um, is this the party venue? Sorry, didn’t get the email …’

Gilly laughed, beyond embarrassment. ‘No, there’s no room for the band in here.’

Now Helena really did look confused. ‘You’re having a band?’

‘No! Figure of speech,’ said Gilly. ‘Now let’s get this party started. Woo!’

‘Mum?’ said Helena. ‘Now you’re scaring me.’

‘And me,’ said William. ‘A quick cup of coffee and we’ll be ready to greet our guests.’

Gilly glanced at her watch. ‘I think we need to open a bottle of something.’

‘Oh, me too!’ said Helena. ‘I’ll do it.’ She took a bottle of champagne out of the fridge, one of a few Gilly had hidden in there for later. When she’d dealt with the bottle and handed everyone a glass of champagne, she said, ‘I want to hear all about William decking Leo. I so wish I’d seen it!’

‘I’m afraid I had my eyes shut,’ Gilly admitted.

‘Just as well. It was very inelegant – not at all like it is on telly,’ said William. ‘If Leo hadn’t been drunk and off balance he’d never have fallen over.’

Gilly realised William wanted to make light of it so didn’t point out that Leo had been gripping on to her very hard, so in spite of being drunk he wasn’t off balance. It must have been quite a punch.

‘What would you have done if he’d stayed standing, William?’ asked Helena.

‘Punched him again, but I’m very glad I didn’t have to. My hand hurts quite enough.’