Joanna thought about it. “Relax. Forgive yourself when you make mistakes. Understand that decisions aren’t always simple and the best path isn’t always clear. Know that it’s never too late to switch direction. That the most important thing in life is having people who love you. That grilled cheese is more satisfying than a poached quail’s egg served with foam. Be kind to yourself even when other people are cruel, remember that you made the choices you made for a reason, even if that reason isn’t clear anymore.” She stopped, realizing that Mel was staring.

“Wow.”

Joanna shrugged. “I guess I’ve had a lot of practice at making bad choices.”

“But you came home,” Mel said, “and that was a good choice.”

“Yes.”

“And you picked me as a friend when you were four years old so that was a good choice, too.”

“True.”

They walked across the terrace, showered off the sand and salt and then wrapped themselves in towels and walked into the kitchen.

Joanna filled two glasses with ice and topped them up with lemonade from the fridge.

Mel was still thinking about Eden. “What did you need when you were Eden’s age? What would have helped?”

“You mean from an adult?” Joanna handed her a glass of lemonade. “I’m not a parent so I’m no expert, but I think the best thing you can do is listen. Listen to what she wants.”

“I’m scared that if she doesn’t go to college, she’ll regret it.”

“And if that happens, then she can go to college later.”

Mel took a sip of lemonade and then put the glass down. “This is delicious.”

“I made it.” Joanna felt a flash of pride. “Cookies, lemonade, and so far you’re still alive.”

“It’s a miracle. But the real miracle is spending time with you again.” Mel put her glass down and hugged her old friend, feeling the warmth of a lifetime flow through her. “It’s so, so good to have you back, Joanna Rafferty.”

Joanna hugged her back. “It’s good to be back.”

21

Joanna

“Right, I’m off.” Ashley walked onto the terrace and whistled when she saw the table with the flickering candles and the gleam of silverware. “That’s romantic.”

Joanna panicked. “Is it too much?”

“No. It’s perfect.” Ashley straightened a napkin. “Don’t forget to toast those pine nuts and add them warm to the salad at the last minute.”

“Got it.”

“And remove dessert from the fridge thirty minutes before you eat it.”

“I know. I’ve made a list and set alarms on my phone. Anything else?”

“Er—remember to have fun?”

Joanna hugged her. “You, too, although pizza, ice cream and a movie are a pretty unbeatable combination. What movie are you watching?”