I did know that, yes. I knew I deserved more than to be cheated on by every man I’d ever called my boyfriend, starting with my high school sweetheart and ending with Neil the fuckhead.

‘Anyway, I just want to be on my own for a while. I’m not sure how long “a while” is, but for right now, I think it’s best.’

‘Oh.’ She looked surprised, which after everything I’d told her, surprised me.

‘I’m happily single.’ I wasn’t sure if I was trying to convince her or me.

‘In that case, I’m sorry about what I said before – about you meeting someone on the trip.’

‘It’s cool. I know you’re just looking out for me.’

‘And your lady parts.’

‘Well, that’s disturbing.’

‘Why?’

‘I don’t need my sister worrying about my “lady parts”. I may have sworn off men, but they’re just fine – thank you very much.’

‘So, you’ve totally sworn off men?’

‘Well, not forever, but until …’ Until what, Sarah?

‘Until what?’ Even Cat wanted to know.

The thing was, I didn’t know myself what I was waiting for. I only knew I wasn’t interested in meeting anyone. Actually, the thought of meeting someone new was utterly unappealing – exhausting even. I couldn’t imagine throwing all my energy into getting to know someone new. I had no idea when I’d be ready for that – or if I ever would.

A wave of fatigue hit me, sucking up my last ounce of energy. ‘Hey, would you hate me if I went and lay down for a bit? I can barely keep my eyes open.’ I could see Cat mentally noting that I’d dodged her question.

‘Of course not,’ she said, letting me off the hook for the second time in as many minutes. ‘I changed the sheets in Alex’s room, so you’re all set. What time’s your flight in the morning?’

‘Pft. Stupid o’clock. Six, I think.’

‘Well, I’m a hundred per cent sure I’ll still be asleep when you take off, so it’s highly unlikely I’ll be up when you have to leave for the airport. Want me to book you a taxi to Heathrow?’

‘Sure. If I leave here at four, will that give me enough time?’

‘Should do. I’ll book it. Fuck, I’m so glad it’s not me.’

‘You know, I’m only going to lie down for an hour or so. I still want to meet Jane and have dinner with you guys.’

She looked at me with a knowing smile. ‘Sure, Sez.’