‘I don’t need your help!’ I retort.

‘Becky, don’t be silly.’

‘I’m not being silly,’ I shoot back, feeling outraged. ‘I don’t want to rely on my husband. I’m an independent woman, you know.’

‘But—’

‘What, you think I can’t break into Hollywood on my own? You just watch. Katharine Hepburn,’ I add.

We walk on for a while in silence, not even bothering to say the names any more, and gradually I simmer down. Actually, Luke’s help would have been quite useful. In fact, really useful. But it’s too late now, I’ve said it. I’ll have to find a way to do it on my own and show him.

My mind starts working hard. Sage is still my most obvious way in. I’m bound to meet her soon. And meanwhile, I can plan a few outfits for her. Maybe I’ll even buy her an accessory or two, just like a personal stylist would. Yes. Brilliant. And if Sage doesn’t work out … well, I have other contacts, don’t I?

‘You know, Luke, I do have my own resources,’ I say grandly. ‘I have worked at Barneys, remember. I am a bit connected, remember. In fact, I think you’ll find I’m even better connected than you.’

And it’s true! I met loads of Hollywood people when I worked at Barneys. At least three producers, and a music consultant, and a casting director. I’ll contact all of them, and someone will be able to give me an entrée, and then—

Ooh, Lassie!

From: Laird, Nick

To: Brandon, Rebecca

Subject: Re: Hi Melanie, how are you?!

Dear Mrs Brandon

I am replying to your email to Melanie Young. I’m sure that Melanie does remember you from her shopping appointments at Barneys and am glad you still recall ‘how fab she looked in that Moschino pencil skirt’.

Unfortunately Melanie has recently given up producing, moved to a commune in Arkansas and, according to her farewell speech, ‘never wants to hear the word “movie” again’. She will therefore be unable to help you launch yourself as a celebrity stylist, nor introduce you to Sarah Jessica Parker.

I wish you every luck with your endeavors in Hollywood.

Nick Laird

Head of Development
ABJ Pictures

From: Quinn, Sandi

To: Brandon, Rebecca

Subject: Re: Hi Rosaline, how are you?!

Dear Mrs Brandon

I am replying to your email on behalf of Rosaline DuFoy, in my role as Rosaline’s counsellor.

Rosaline does indeed remember you from her shopping appointments at Barneys and recalls well the ‘amazingly slimming pant suit’ you found for her sister’s wedding.

Unfortunately, during the toast at that wedding, her husband came out as gay. Rosaline has always – rightly or wrongly – blamed her ‘androgynous clothes’ for his switch in sexuality and is currently penning an autobiography entitled ‘If only I’d worn a f***ing dress’. As the memories are still raw and painful, she would rather not meet with you.

However, I wish you every success in Hollywood.

Best,

Sandi Quinn
Director
Quinn Clinic for Marital Therapy