‘That’s only natural. Especially if you really like him,’ Ruby teased. ‘Can’t you ask your cards?’

Imelda shook her head. ‘You shouldn’t read for yourself or those really close to you. Your emotions get in the way and distort the interpretation. You can end up seeing what you want or what you fear instead of what’s actually there.’

Ruby leaned forward to inspect the necklace that Imelda was wearing. ‘It’s beautiful – and it looks expensive. It’s a serious gift. So, what has the man done to make you doubt him?’

‘It’s more what he hasn’t done.’

Ruby raised her eyebrows in silent interrogation.

‘Yesterday, just before my party, I saw him tinkering with one of his bikes. And guess who was playing with his spanners? He insists that it’s just a one-sided infatuation, so why doesn’t he tell her to get lost?’

‘Perhaps it’s not that easy.’

‘It’s two words.’

Ruby’s face grew serious. ‘Don’t underestimate that girl, Imelda. She may be young and spoilt, but she’s smart with it. She’s cast her spell on Jeanie and has poor Charlie dancing attendance at the click of her fingers. She’s not even a guest here, but Marty treats her like a VIP, sadly deluded that he stands even a cat in hell’s chance of getting inside her Janet Reger knickers.’

Imelda had rarely heard Ruby speak about anyone other than Marty with such obvious dislike – and she hadn’t finished yet.

‘She’s rich, and accustomed to all the privileges that Daddy’s money can buy. She wants; she gets. And if anyone gets in the way, woe betide them.’

‘So, are you saying that Cillian’s right just to go along with her game?’

‘No. I’m saying that maybe Cillian’s playing poker. He can’t change the cards she’s dealt him, but he can play a clever hand. She’s trouble, and I think he’s trying to protect himself – and you.’

Imelda remembered her encounter with Vivienne at the talent contest and the vague disquiet she had felt looking into those cold, grey eyes for the first time.

‘My mother did say she’s got the devil in her.’

‘I think she may well be right,’ Ruby replied.

‘Talk of the devil and he will appear!’

Cillian flung back the curtain and swaggered into the booth like a pantomime villain making his entrance. ‘Now, who are you two ladies gossiping about?’

‘Don’t flatter yourself – it wasn’t you!’ Imelda couldn’t help but smile.

‘But you are just the man I wanted to see.’ Ruby handed him a flyer from the folder she was holding.

‘Now, that’s supposed to be your line.’ Cillian winked at Imelda. ‘But Ruby, of course, I’m yours to command,’ he added, scanning the piece of paper in his hand.

‘That disco, next Saturday, can you be here?’