Though Christopher had initially been dismayed at the sight of Louisa Forrester, he found himself liking her more and more. Perhaps he should have realised that recognition was possible anywhere – given the publicity he’d received – but it had been disconcerting to bump into someone he’d met before in this unlikely setting. He had a vivid recollection of their meeting at Garsington: Louisa’s wasn’t the sort of face you forgot. He’d thought her charming then, and he found her just as delightful now. He could have kicked himself for not being more open with her on the first evening. He decided it would be best to confide in her as soon as possible and put an end to speculation. She was obviously curious, but what did it matter, after all? Sophisticated Louisa might epitomise the lifestyle he was trying to leave behind, but then she seemed to be seeking changes too. She gave the impression of being so carefree and light-hearted that it had been a surprise to learn what a struggle she’d had with illness. Her display of vulnerability had been unexpected too. The other young woman, Marnie, not so glamorous, but also possessed of that indefinable quality that makes someone’s presence felt, intrigued him too. He had caught a glimpse of such unhappiness and uncertainty on her face the first evening that he had felt an urge to comfort her, but then felt he had come up against a brick wall. Huh! The new, caring Christopher, Nicola would have said mockingly – and it would not have been intended as a compliment.

Christopher had put his name down for a tutorial session with Catherine the following afternoon. He had taken her up on her offer to look at a piece of his work and realised that he was pinning a lot of hope on her reaction, though he doubted if she would have had time to do more than glance at what he’d brought with him. His future might depend on what she advised him to do. Christopher, who for years had relished taking decisions about important issues, who had prided himself on flourishing in the cut and thrust of a highly competitive business life, who had thrived in the buzz and excitement of the City, was uncertain what his next step should be. He only knew he had to change direction.