But then I felt panic stab me like an early period pain. ‘Shit, is Rowan okay? I was meant to text when I got home.’

‘Ah, he’s fine. He and Ian had a lads’ night in last night. Did their make-up, got drunk.’

‘Besides,’ Fred added, ‘you can still text him when you get home.’

I risked a quick look at Monty who, mouth agape and one eyebrow raised, now looked like the love child of shock and pride. He gave me a nod. ‘I see. Well, ladies, go on ahead and enjoy your breakfast.’ He leaned in for a second hug and, speaking into the ear away from Fred, whispered, ‘Good on you, Edi.’

When we were sitting down, Fred looked over her menu while I fidgeted with mine. And as though sensing my worry, she said, ‘I’m not going to be offended if you text him. Especially if he’s a worrier.’

I apologised profusely and wrestled my phone out of my bag. He isn’t a worrier but— There were two messages: Home yet babe? Getting late. xxx and Guess you’re still out. But lemme know when you’re back. Bloody love you. x – and a voicemail that I decided against listening to. There were ripples of guilt moving through my belly. But I tried hard to counter the feelings by making a tally of the number of pancakes Rowan might have eaten with women by now. Besides, it had always been me who instigated the ‘home safe’ text; half the time he didn’t reply so I couldn’t see why this time he’d—

‘Edi.’ Fred reached across the table. ‘Are you okay? You’ve gone really pale.’

You. I forced a smile. This time it’s about you. ‘I’m fine, sorry.’ I flashed a tight smile and back-clicked out of my WhatsApp. But before I could stash the handset away another message came through. This one wasn’t from Rowan, though, instead it was a GIF from Faith: Two women kissing. And she was still typing …

Definitely saw you with Fred. Too early in the day for a date. Stride of pride? xx

Followed by the emoji of a rainbow flag.

Chapter 31