Lara seemed fine, though. The last puppy, larger than the others, didn’t need her teeth to release it from its bag. It sucked strongly when Ben latched it on. ‘Definitely a boy,’ he said.

Thea mentally gave herself a little shake. ‘I think we need more tea. Will the other pups be all right without Lara for a bit?’

‘Oh, yes. As long as they’re warm.’

Thea had found one of Rory’s jumpers for them to nestle in, so they were fine.

She thought about Ben while adding to the pile of used tea bags on a saucer, about how he delivered that little pup. He was so strong and yet so gentle. Lots of women developed crushes on their vets and now she could see why. If they’d brought your beloved cat back to life you’d love them for ever in return. When she brought the tea in he had coaxed Lara back to her place in front of the fire.

‘If you can find me some old rags or something, I’ll start clearing up the mess.’

He looked up at her and she noticed how dark his eyes were, how they had a hint of sadness in them, as Toby’s had. It was something to do with Lara and the pups which made her want to take him in her arms, she realised. She couldn’t conveniently cuddle Lara and, having watched the miracle of childbirth, she felt the need to hug someone.

She sipped her tea. She was tired and anxious – all these strange feelings would go away in the morning.

She yawned loudly, making Ben look up. He smiled. Thea smiled back. He had a wonderful smile, rare and special; you had to respond to it, however tired you were. ‘How many more do you think she’ll have?’ she asked.

He ran his hands over Lara’s flanks. ‘I think there’s at least one more in there, but I’m not experienced enough to be sure.’

While there were no more puppies imminent they struggled to get the worst of the greeny black slime off the sofa.

‘It’ll need dry-cleaning,’ said Ben. ‘At least, that’s what Molly would say.’

‘Molly would need a whole new suite if anyone dared have puppies on her sofa.’ She looked up. ‘I expect Rory will just leave it. Where the hell is he, by the way?’

Ben gave her a look which, in spite of being enigmatic, still managed to convey his opinion of Rory. ‘We’re managing perfectly without him.’

‘You’re right. He’d probably get in the way.’

‘So,’ Ben went on. ‘Did you and Rory just meet on this holiday you went on, as Molly said? Or did you know him before?’