“Then do it. I’d give anything to kiss you right now.”

“I’d give anything to jump your bones.”

He laughs. “That thing you do when you squeeze my balls …”

“That thing you do with your tongue.” I sigh.

“What thing?”

“Anything.” I laugh. “I just want your tongue.”

“I’m sorry I couldn’t leave it behind with you.” He pauses. “What are you wearing?”

I laugh. “I’m in bed, but I’ve got my winter pyjamas on. Nothing too exciting.”

“You’re in bed; that’s a start.”

“Without you.”

“Then get online and order that passport. When you’ve done it, let me know and I’ll get your tickets booked. Just think about it. Two weeks on the beach.”

I laugh. “We’d never see the beach. I’d be pinning you to the bed.”

“Even better. I miss your tits.”

Oh, we’re going to play that game.

“I miss your cock more.”

“Believe me, he misses you.”

“He?”

“He has a mind of his own when it comes to you. My hand’s not cutting it.”

I look down at my crumb-covered shirt. “I don’t think I’d cut it right now. I look like a slob. Maybe you should use moisturiser.”

Josh laughs. “I’d rather be inside you. You drive me crazy. I can’t wait to see you again.”

“I miss you.” I brush the crumbs off to the side of the bed where they fall on the floor, and snuggle down under the covers.

“I miss you. And I need you to trust me. There’s no one on this earth I want to be with. Only you. I hope you know that.”

Cradling the phone close to my ear, I move until I’m comfortable. “I do. It’s just … those sites are ruthless.”

“They are, but this is me telling you that you never need to doubt how I feel about you. We’re owed our happy ending, Delaney.”

He’s right. Deep down I know he wouldn’t put us at risk, but after not being able to see him or speak to him, that story hit a nerve. I need to steel myself for worse. It’s not ever going to get better.

“I’m sorry. It’s just a bit much.”

“No. I’m sorry. I should have warned you about this kind of thing. The media will do anything if they get a sniff of what they think is news.”

I sigh. “So, this isn’t a one-off?”

“They’ll try and link me with anyone when all I want is to be with you. Please try and remember that.”

“I will.” I stare at the ceiling.

“What have you been doing? How’s Amelia?”

“Work and school. She’s good. She’s missing you too.”

“Next time I’ll try and call earlier. Give her a kiss for me.”

“I will.”