‘So how is Molly involved?’ He was frowning. Did he disapprove of his second cousin once removed, or whoever she was, putting her money into a hair-brained scheme?

‘I couldn’t get a mortgage in time to pay the deposit and things, so she’s lent me the money. But she’s also a sort of partner, because she’s doing all sorts of admin. She’s brilliant at it.’

‘You don’t find her too domineering?’

Thea shook her head. ‘Derek told me – via her, actually – to channel her energies. It works a treat. I did think we might fall out over what work we show. I think she wanted Cotswold views and wild flower watercolours. When she realised that I didn’t and either she had to let me have artistic control or give up the gallery, she gave in.’

‘It wouldn’t have been a good idea to mortgage your house for something so uncertain.’

‘Well, thank you for your confidence! Actually, I think I might sell it eventually, when I’ve got time to think about it.’

He frowned harder. ‘But what about your lodgers? At least they’re assured income.’

‘You’re such a pessimist. I could buy a house here, with a garden, and have a couple of lodgers if I wanted. At least I wouldn’t be traipsing across country to go home each night. And I’d have money over. Property is cheaper here. I should be able to manage to buy a nice little cottage with a garden and still have change from what I’d get for my present house. Anyway, I’m far too busy to think about moving at the moment. It probably won’t happen until next year, although really, I should start doing it when the lodgers go home for the vac, only I’ve got the next show to sort out.’

‘So how will you manage for money, when the lodgers go home?’

‘You’re very nosy.’

‘Sorry. Of course, you don’t have to tell me.’

She put down her fish and chip paper. ‘Fortunately I’m not at all secretive and don’t mind telling you, although if I started asking you such personal questions I expect you’d get very huffy.’

‘I expect I would. So, how do you manage, without their rent money?’

‘I used to have a job and I live cheaply. Not having them in the house saves a fortune in bills.’

‘But you haven’t got a job now.’

She smiled and made a sweeping gesture. ‘I have my work.’

‘But seriously –’

‘Seriously, it’s none of your business and you don’t have to worry.’

‘I worry about Rory letting you down. It would take ages for you to earn as much from anyone else.’

‘But if I sell my house, I can pay Molly back.’

‘You’d have to buy another house and you wouldn’t have the income.’