‘As long as you’re not vague when it comes to organising literary festivals,’ said Laura. She was teasing but there was a thread of anxiety in the back of her mind.

‘Oh no, work wise, I’m spot on. It’s just domestically I’m a bit of a dilly.’

‘Here you are, Dilly,’ said her husband fondly, ‘and make sure Laura has plenty of gravy.’

When at last they were all eating, and no one had to jump up and get anything else, Laura said, ‘I’ve had quite a lot of ideas about things we could do in the run-up for the festival. A reading group for instance.’

‘Oh, that’s a good idea. As you know, I’m in a reading group,’ said Fenella. ‘And there are another couple around, including one in the library.’

Laura nodded while she finished her mouthful. ‘I’ve been in touch with the local librarian. She’s very keen. We just need to get the authors sorted out as quickly as possible.’

‘Then we’ll sell lots of books and they’ll be inspired to come to the events.’ Fenella speared a piece of roast potato. ‘It’ll stir up interest.’ She chewed thoughtfully. ‘Although the library’s group always get their books ordered specially. Not everyone can afford to buy a new book every month.’

Laura’s bookseller’s mantle fell away for a moment. ‘Of course not. I couldn’t myself if I didn’t get proofs from the shop. But it’s great to have the library on side.’

‘We could get the local paper to sponsor something,’ suggested Rupert. ‘All the local institutions should have a stake in it.’

‘What about a writing competition?’ suggested Fenella, her mouth full of carrot.

‘But who would we get to judge it?’ said Rupert. ‘We’re going to have our work cut out setting this thing up, and we’re not qualified, really.’

‘Dermot,’ muttered Laura, who was still faintly resentful about him offering to do that course and cross with herself because of it. She sipped her wine, wondering why she was feeling so resentful. He wasn’t her exclusive property and he hadn’t actually taken her virginity, after all.

‘We’ll find someone,’ said Fenella. ‘I’ve got a huge wish list of authors I want. One of them will be willing to pick a winner, if we didn’t offer them more than about five to read.’

‘Damien Stubbs might,’ said Laura. ‘We should definitely ask him to the festival. He’s really good and very attractive. Eleanora could make him come. He’s one of hers.’

‘I hope we don’t forget all this. Here, Rupes, chuck us that bit of paper and a pencil.’ Fenella made a note.