Stuart nodded. ‘Ad for my band. Remember I told you I’d got together with a few musicians. We’re playing in a couple of weeks’ time.’

‘Your band?’

‘Yes. The Reckless Hearts.’

‘And you’re on keyboard?’

‘I am; we play mainly country blues. You could come and listen if you like.’

‘I would.’

Stuart handed me a leaflet. ‘All the details are on there.’

‘Great. I’ll definitely come.’

‘Good, it’s a date then, I mean … not a date date, bring your friends if you like.’

I laughed. I’d never seen Stuart look awkward before. ‘I know what you mean. Will Janet be there?’

Stuart laughed. ‘Not likely. Not her kind of thing at all, and don’t have too high expectations, we’ve only been playing a few months. But I enjoy it, it’s been great; rediscovering a lost part of me and having something creative to do makes a nice change from the day job.’ Monty started tugging on his lead. ‘Better go. Dog duty calls, then back to work. And Bea, could you pop into the office some time? There’s something I wanted to talk to you about.’

‘OK, any clues?’

‘Few changes coming up I’d like to fill you in on. Nothing urgent.’

*

When I got home, I saw that there had been another delivery. Inside was a black and white box that I recognized immediately. Jo Malone. I love her products. I opened the black and white packaging to find a Pomegranate Noir Scent Surround Diffuser. I opened the box it was in and sniffed. A gorgeous scent filled the room. I looked for a card and found one inside a tiny envelope. All it said was ‘Heady stuff. x’ Interesting and true: receiving gifts like this was heady stuff indeed.

39

On Saturday morning, I took the train from London Bridge to Westgate-on-Sea. As I sat on the train, I planned to catch up with admin and emails.

On Facebook, I noticed that Bruno had accepted me as his friend and that there were two private messages. One from him, one from Kate. I clicked on the one from Bruno first.

Darling Bea, how lovely to hear from you and what a surprise after all this time, though of course, I have never forgotten you and our marvellous summer. What happy days. Write and tell me all your news. I am often in London on business. Sending you kisses. Affectionately Bruno.