‘Your sisters.’ I smile.

‘They’re good. Behaving themselves. They’ve asked after you.’ Harry had started sorting his papers, but he stops to look at me. ‘We should all catch up soon.’

‘That’d be nice,’ I say.

And I mean it.

But neither of us follow up as to when.

The day after, I’m up early to check out the second instalment of the Pussy Paws campaign. This time, in another full-page ad, the Jordan-lookalike actor is alone on the Eat Me set, wearing a Venetian-ball plaster-of-Paris cat-mask, feeding a professionally trained Russian Blue cat – Benny having put his advertising days firmly behind him – from a can of Pussy Paws. The tagline reads:

Master J remains a mystery, but there’s one secret we’re happy to share. Pussy Paws now contains a secret ingredient that knocks fleas dead!

The label on the can is clearly visible: PACKS FLEAS A PUNCH.

Below the photograph is the disclaimer.

* No advertising executives were harmed during the taste-testing of this delicious product.

I’m heading on to the gym when Harry calls my mobile to say a number of agencies have approached him wanting us for their marketing campaigns. With a chuckle, he informs me he’s also fielded a few calls from heavy breathers happy I’ve taken it on board to get my booty into skimpier clothes and would I mind a bit more of it for our regular recordings, too.

I’m still amused by the thought when I hit the weights with Nikolai for another gruelling and most-excellent workout.

On the way out, between the endorphins from the exercise and that things are falling into place for me everywhere I turn, I’m walking on air.

I’m heading into the studio when I think to call Jordan.

He answers his work line on the first ring.

‘Jordan Piper.’

‘Hi, Jordan. It’s me, Grace.’

‘One minute.’

The last time Jordan and I spoke was during the photography session for Pussy Paws, where plenty of other people from SC6 and his agency floated about for distraction. I’m on hold a long time before he picks up the line.

‘Sorry, I’ve popped into an office. It’s, ah, hectic out there.’

His girlfriend is listening?

‘I’m just calling to say thanks.’ I jump straight into the purpose of my call. ‘I presume you’ve seen the ads. I just want to say, they got me out of a very sticky situation. I imagine it wasn’t easy to swing Pussy Paws on such short notice, but you did it. Thank you, Jordan. I hope they’re pleased?’

‘Oh, no problem. Yes, the ads are brilliant. The client’s thrilled.’ He pauses. ‘I’ve been promoted to director.’

I congratulate Jordan on his news, insisting it’s a well-earned promotion for his hard work and effort over many years. I’m delighted to say that, without a hint of resentment, I mean it.