Kimberley nodded briskly. ‘All but in signature, and I won’t say any more until it’s settled legally – not even to you. So don’t ask. But it’s a trainer. The place won’t be turned into a gigolo’s parlour like Peter did with Peapods. Speaking of which, are you going to Bronwyn’s meeting at the village hall?’

‘Doubtful. Bronwyn and I aren’t speaking again. Anyway, it’s a waste of time. The golf course will go ahead now.’

‘I’ll probably show my face.’ Kimberley drained her mug. ‘It’ll give me a chance to invite everyone to the shenanigan, won’t it? And why are you and Bronwyn not speaking?’

‘Drew.’

‘Silly old besom! She really should mind her own business. I should think it’s hard enough for you with that cold fish of a wife of his hanging around without nosy parkers like Bronwyn Pugh sticking their oar in. I don’t know why Drew doesn’t leave her.’

‘He said he would but I told him not to. I can’t wreck a marriage.’

Kimberley poured another mug of tea. ‘Some marriages are wrecked already. They don’t need outside influences. If you’re prepared to wait, I’m sure it’ll all work out in the end.’

‘I’d wait for ever, Kimberley. But I don’t think Drew will. Caroline is running her business by email from Peapods at the moment and showing no signs of budging. I haven’t seen Drew to talk to for days.’

‘I’ll ask her to provide the wine for the reception, and tell her she’s got to brew it in person. That’ll get rid of her for a few weeks. Give you and Drew a chance to roll in the hay.’

‘You’re terrible. A complete reprobate.’

‘I know.’ Kimberley’s large face dissolved into a smile. ‘I got expelled from Cheltenham Ladies’ College for it.’

The Anadin had worked well, easing the worst of the pain by the time Maddy got home. She thought it was a pity someone couldn’t dispense an analgesic to cope with heartache. They’d make a fortune.

Having told Suzy Kimberley’s news, the cottage once again throbbed Roberta Flack. It was very soothing.

‘I’m just going to tell Jason and Oily and the other guys. That’ll be OK, won’t it?’ Suzy was tugging on her Doc Martens.

‘Yes. Kimberley said it was better to keep the record straight. This is one secret I don’t mind you sharing.’

‘I never breathed a word about the other …’ Suzy’s tongue protruded as she kohled her eyes in the skewwhiff window.

‘I should hope not.’ Maddy went scarlet. ‘That was private.’