‘Yes. I did a bit of YouTubing to look at gliders and they seem … small? And will take a bit of getting into,’ she said, pleased with herself for avoiding the words ‘cramped’ and ‘claustrophobic’. ‘I hope I’m athletic enough.’

‘I’m sure you are.’

‘And we wear parachutes?’

‘Yup. Partly for safety and partly because if you didn’t the seats would be really uncomfortable.’

‘Oh, like when you lose the lining of your shoe and it’s too big and unpleasant against your foot?’

He nodded. ‘I expect so.’

She didn’t speak for a while, aware they were getting nearer and nearer the airfield.

‘Don’t overthink it, Gilly,’ said William eventually. ‘If you really don’t want to go, we won’t go. It’s not a big deal.’

Yet having been offered a way out Gilly realised she’d feel disappointed if she didn’t give gliding a try. And Martin and Cressida would be so furious when she told them she’d been – any amount of fear would be worth that.

In spite of her bracing inner thoughts, Gilly found the age it took to drive the perimeter of the airfield agonizing. She was here, she wanted to do it and she didn’t want it spun out with scenic drives around large open spaces.

After seemingly hours, but in reality only a few minutes, William parked the car near the clubhouse. He held her arm encouragingly as they walked past where a number of gliders were kept under cover towards the building where, according to the jaunty sign on the outside, the fun began.

William was obviously a popular member of the club; everyone greeted him with warm smiles, and there was the odd joke that indicated they appreciated his gentle charm. She received a fair amount of curious looks and shy nods herself and she couldn’t help asking herself how many other women he’d taken gliding. She was surprised to feel a bit jealous; she wanted it to be only her. And then she wondered why.

‘Come on,’ said William. ‘Let’s get it over with!’

Gilly laughed. ‘Do I look that terrified?’

‘Yes,’ said a couple of the other people.

‘But no need,’ one went on. ‘You’re going to love it.’

‘It’s traditional to have a big cooked breakfast after your first flight,’ said another, ‘no matter what time you go up.’

Gilly managed some sort of smile; now her ordeal was nearly on her, she was getting more and more frightened. She started breathing deeply. That was always a good idea.

‘Is this your glider?’ she said as they approached the machine, which seemed hardly bigger than a dragonfly.

‘No, this belongs to the club. Mine is a single-seater. I thought it was a bit early to put you up in that.’

It took Gilly a couple of seconds to realise he’d made a joke. She whimpered in response.