Turning, I see Jo’s face fall, while I’m relieved but feel a tinge of disappointment too. I’ve seen Josh on the cover of magazines and occasionally on television, but I’m still a little curious about the man he’s become. He’s been in a bunch of blockbuster films, but I’ve avoided every one.

It’s been an act of self-preservation.

“I’m sure I can maybe organise some merchandise or something for you. I’ll ask them.”

She smiles. “That would be wonderful.”

“Thanks,” I say. “And sorry.” I mouth the last two words to George, but he winks at me as if to say it’s okay.

“Hey, Delaney.” The man I met in the diner the other day walks toward me. “I just wanted to say thanks. The food was great, and today went really well.”

“Glad to hear it. Good luck with your movie.”

“Thank you.”

He walks away with a hot dog in his hand, and I let out a sigh.

“What did you want us to do with the leftover food, George?” I ask. There’s not a lot, but I’m not about to leave any mess behind.

“I’ll get it taken care of. You two have done more than enough for us. I’m so grateful.”

“You’re welcome. Just don’t drop me in it again.” I grin.

“You’re an angel. And no offence, but we shouldn’t need you again.”

I laugh. “No offence taken. We’ll clear out our gear and get going.”

Packing up is easy, and I can’t wait to get back to my daughter.

* * *

When we reach the diner, I drop the boxes on the table and head through to the counter. Melly’s eyes light up when she sees me.

“Mummy.”

“Hey, sweet pea.” I walk around the front and give her a hug. “Have you had fun?”

“Pania picked me up and she made me a hot dog.”

“Did she?”

She nods as if I didn’t organise for Pania to do that.

“Do you want to go home now?” My heart lights up as she buries her face in my chest.

“Yes, please.”

“Let’s get you down from there.”

I help her off the stool and we walk back through to the kitchen.

Pania smiles. “Did everything go okay?”

“Really good. They had food warmers and everything ready, just no food. We didn’t even have to clean up after ourselves.”

“Was he there?”

I look over at Melly. She’s picked up her schoolbag from beside the door and is waiting patiently.

“No. Apparently the stars of the movie fly in next week.”

“An easy afternoon, then.”

“It was good. I told George not to dump me in it again, but I think we need to be prepared just in case. I’m sure their in-house catering will be fine from now, but you never know.” I shrug.