‘Well, that’s another thing … ’ Hannah began steeling herself, certain he wasn’t going to like this part. ‘Like I said, it’s a pretty grand affair at the Plaza. All the other players were told to bring a plus-one, and Bernie wants you to do the same. All part of the responsible, mature, fully rehabilitated new you. And before you say it, I know, I know … your personal life is off-limits, but if there happens to be someone who’s at ease with all this, or maybe used to rubbing shoulders with such people or … ’

But far from rejecting the idea outright, Ward seemed to be thinking it over. ‘Actually, there is,’ he said, grinning, and Hannah wondered why she felt so deflated at this, his admission that there was indeed a significant other in his life after all. ‘Someone who knows exactly how to handle it.’

Obviously someone used to the public eye too. That woman in the fitness video?

Then Ward flashed his heart-melting smile directly at Hannah.

‘I get that it might be beyond the call of duty, but when you think about it, who better?’

Chapter 39

Dear P-1,

You’ve been awfully quiet lately. I’m hoping that it’s just because there’s fewer things about me to annoy you, and not because you’re feeling poorly or anything. Meant to say before, that if ever you’re feeling unwell or in poor spirits let me know and I’ll pop over with some of my world-famous lamb stew. Don’t want to boast but I’ve been told in the past that my recipe is capable of literally saving lives. (Slight admission, it comes from a can and I just add fresh cream, but it’s offered from the heart and that makes all the difference.)

Sorry I haven’t had the chance to bake much recently – work has been crazy plus some new demands on my social life, but I promise I’ll get back to it soon. I think I’m going to add some macadamia nuts to the chocolate next time to liven things up. You OK with macadamia nuts? Some people don’t like them but I love them.

Baking is the best distraction and unfailingly helps keep my mind off my problems. Well, they’re not really problems, more dilemmas, I suppose. (Yes, I know – a dilemma is a kind of problem too before you point it out.)

OK, I’m rambling now. Just checking in again to make sure you’re doing OK. And to say that if ever you do need anything, (or want to see a friendly face?) I’m right next door.

Sincerely,

P-2

PS: I hope you do like macadamias. I know in California people certainly have strong opinions about them and take them very seriously indeed.

P-2,