‘So, while I think you’re completely mad and doomed to failure, I will help you in any way I can. With contacts, stuff like that.’

Thea’s mouth twitched. ‘Oh, but not with the painting and decorating?’

His mouth twitched too, but was quickly controlled. ‘I don’t have a lot of time, but I expect I’ll do a bit of that too, if I have to.’

Thea smiled properly and put out her hand. ‘Of course you don’t have to. It’s very kind of you to help at all. And the contacts stuff will be really useful – after all, any fool can slap on a few coats of emulsion.’

‘Which you’ll probably find is a good thing.’

‘I’m sure I can get Petal and co. to help out.’

‘Really? She’s never struck me as the most helpful girl.’

‘Oh, yes! She got the other lodgers to clean the house beautifully, before I came back. I don’t mean she actually did it herself, but she made the others.’

‘Well, good for her. Perhaps she’s growing up at last.’

‘I think she takes after Molly.’

‘Probably.’

‘And Molly’s mad keen to be involved, too.’

‘Thea, I don’t know how well you know Molly. I’m devoted to her myself but she is rather –’

‘Forceful? Bossy? Yes, I do know, but I need someone like that. She’s so positive. I think I can keep her in check.’ She smiled. ‘I’m so grateful for your help as well. Rory will be, too, I’m sure.’

‘I’m not doing this for Rory!’ He sounded unreasonably cross. ‘I mean, much as I admire his work, I know he’ll succeed as an artist, especially now he’s so keen on showing …’

‘So?’ Thea whispered, when she couldn’t wait any longer.

‘I’m doing it – or I will be – because I admire you for having a dream and going for it.’

Thea gulped. She didn’t know what to say. To be admired by Ben, even for being crazy, was wonderful. And so, she realised, was Ben. Like the last clue in the crossword puzzle, it was so obvious when you knew the answer. Why she couldn’t make love to Rory, why her heart beat faster when she heard his voice on the phone, why she wanted him near her, even when he was saying negative things about her project. She was either in love, or had the most almighty crush. Either way, she had to say something, and quickly, or he might guess. ‘I thought you thought I was mad,’ she burbled. ‘In fact, you said I was, in so many words.’

‘Yes, I do and you are, but I do admire you for it.’

‘Oh.’

‘And it will keep Molly out of mischief, too.’