“I’d better go and hunt out old Tubby, then,” Algie said. “As soon as I can round up some respectable clothing. At least the studio should have to spring for new togs, shouldn’t they? I mean these were decent flannels, completely ruined. And my evening clothes, the lot, all gone. Actually that chap Craig Hart was being awfully decent. He said if I liked to come and see him, he’d take care of me.”

“You should definitely do that, then.” Belinda and I exchanged a smile. “Do you think you have a little corner for me, darling?” she said. “Just until I fall on my feet again. I’ve decided to stay on in Hollywood for a while. I’m going to use the publicity from the fire to get myself hired as a costume designer. I had these brilliant designs with me that Mr. Goldman had requested, but unfortunately they all went up in flames.”

“What brilliant designs?” I asked, then I shook my head. “Belinda, you are as bad as Algie.”

“We’re survivors in a cruel world, darling. It’s a pity I don’t fancy him.”

“Oh, I say. I’m not that bad,” Algie said. “You’re not exactly my kind of girl, either. Now, Georgie, for example, she’s a cracking girl. I wouldn’t mind hitching up with her.”

“Sorry,” Darcy said. “Already taken.”

“Really?” Belinda raised an eyebrow. “At last.”

Chapter 32

AT THE BEVERLY HILLS HOTEL

AUGUST 4

There is a strange feeling of unreality after a traumatic event like the one we have just experienced. My feelings are suddenly very raw and all I can think of is going home to England, back to normality. I have had enough of film stars and palm trees!

A trundle bed was put up in my bedroom for Belinda. Algie was sent, protesting, in search of Tubby Halliday. I rather thought those two deserved each other. Next day Mummy was magnanimous for once and took Belinda and me shopping for clothes. I was grateful for this even though we found nothing as glamorous as the backless evening gown and silk pajamas. I wondered if I would ever see their like again—ever be able to afford their like. Mummy even sprang for a new uniform for Queenie, even though she protested about this. “I can’t think why you ever took her back, darling. Utter disaster.”

“She did save Claudette,” I reminded her.