Maddy was thankful that Richard had bypassed that little scenario. ‘I’m glad you’re enjoying yourself.’

Caroline had got her fruit punch in a glass and sipped it delicately. ‘Oh, yes. I had a feeling that Drew didn’t want me to come back with him. Now I can understand why. We just don’t do this at home.

‘Actually, I’ve got a proposition for you.’ She raked her fingers through the shining fall of her hair. ‘Please say no if you don’t want to. I’m going back to Jersey the day after tomorrow. Being over on the mainland is such a treat and I’d love to go to London, but I hate to shop alone. Would you come with me?’

Whatever Maddy had been expecting, it certainly wasn’t this. She wanted to laugh. Caroline had to be crazy. She had one more day she could spend with Drew and she wanted to go shopping.

‘Even if you don’t actually want to buy, I would welcome your advice. And I’d love your company. After all, we have so much in common.’

Only one thing, Maddy thought. Still, she could ask Jackie to take over for her tomorrow. Kat could help out on the lighter jobs – she was pregnant again. It seemed to be common among jockeys’ wives – proving their stud value. It was ages since she’d had a day off, and she might learn some more about Drew – or, at least, his marriage. Oh, what the heck.

‘Yes, all right, I’d love to. Are you going to drive?’

‘As far as Didcot station. We’ll travel in comfort from there. Oh, Maddy – it’ll be such fun.’

Fun, it wouldn’t be. Maddy wondered how her bank account would stand up to an assault on Oxford Street. It could hardly cope with Oxfam.

‘Hello, darling.’ Drew appeared at Caroline’s side. Maddy and Caroline looked at him, then at each other, and laughed. Drew shook his head. ‘Mission successfully accomplished, I think. Richard has fallen on Diana with cries of gratitude and Mitchell is flashing his teeth, so I presume they’re all happy. I’m a bit concerned about my new jump jockey, though. I just hope Fran leaves him in one piece. Are they, er, you know?’

‘No! Fran is very much in love with Richard. Charlie’s just a flirt.’

‘Oh, that’s flirting, is it?’ Drew looked doubtful. ‘Anyway, whose reputation are you two ripping to shreds?’

‘Don’t be sexist, Drew.’ Caroline flashed her eyes. ‘Maddy and I were talking about tomorrow. We’re going up to London together. For a shopping spree.’

Maddy heard Drew’s sharp intake of breath. Caroline obviously didn’t. She was smiling. ‘It’s such a shame I can’t stay any longer. Bronwyn has called an emergency meeting for the following night. It’s all so exciting here.’