‘Unfortunately, I’m learning that I don’t really exist publicly without him. Three brands have pulled out of working with me off the back of my “mental health”. They say they have ceased to work with me while I work out my problems. Meanwhile Gavin continues to pull in millions and be everyone’s hero and Mr Nice Guy.’

‘That’s really terrible. I’m so sorry it’s turned out that way. What about your mum?’

‘I have no plans to speak to her again. I think I’ve been looking for the right excuse to cut her out, and she just offered it to me on a plate.’

‘It must be liberating. My mother has a hold on me like a dragnet. I’ve never had the confidence to cut it loose. You’re being very mature about it all. I’m sure I’d be plotting some sweet revenge.’

‘Oh, I would if there was a way. But what am I going to do, send him a photo of me with someone else? He wouldn’t care anyway.’

An idea crosses my mind that I brush away quickly. It’s a ridiculous thought. Not possible. She notices that I am thinking.

‘What?’

‘Oh nothing,’ I say. ‘Silly idea. Would never work …’

‘Come on, what is it?’ she presses.

It’s ridiculous. But, if I pulled it off …

‘You need him to stop making people think it’s all your fault, right? You need some currency, basically?’

‘Go on …’

‘Beth and Risky, they saw what happened? With Gavin and your mum?’

‘Yes.’

‘Did your mum or Gavin see them?’

‘No, not at the time. We confronted Mum later.’

‘So hypothetically, could Risky or Beth have taken a photo when they saw them having sex?’ Getting a little excited at the thought of this.

‘God, why would they do that? That would be so weird,’ Lauren says, and of course she is right.

‘Yes, but it could have happened, right?’ I ask, needing this to be very clear.

‘Yes, I suppose so. One of them could have taken a photo if they were total perverts.’

‘How damaging would it be for him and his business to know about his infidelity?’ I ask, fully invested.

‘Pretty bad. I mean, it would embarrass him a lot, that’s for sure. He wouldn’t want it.’

‘OK, then I think I have an idea. Let me get you some more water, and I’ll explain,’ I say, disappearing into the kitchen.

I have to say, I really am a genius sometimes.

Beth

Risky and I were having a cup of tea when Lauren called.

‘Beth, hi it’s Lauren. You know you asked if there was anything else you could do for me? Well there is. If I come and get you in an hour, can you and Risky take the afternoon off to come and help me with something?’