She listened as he told the story of how she’d collapsed into his arms when she got the book contract, his chest full, eyes beaming with pride. It didn’t matter if he was exaggerating. She hadn’t actually collapsed into his arms, but she had hugged him tightly. She hadn’t actually cried for an hour, but she had shed a tear. Though he did deserve some credit. He was, after all, the reason her manuscript got in front of Di in the first place, using his connection to Robert, who happened to be Di’s neighbour, and he was all too happy to share this in his speech.

‘Sounds like we should be toasting Mark, too,’ Jane called across the table and glasses were raised once more.

Over the steady din of the busy restaurant, Nicole fielded questions. Jane – when will the book be out? In about twelve months. Di – when will the next manuscript be ready? Nicky was working on it. Robert – how much was the advance? None of his business and a stern look from Mark.

The waitress, dressed in a deep blue áo dài tunic, bowed as she placed the bill on the table.

‘Why don’t we head to Currie’s dessert bar?’ Jane suggested.

‘Great idea.’ Nicky stood. She wasn’t ready for the night to end just yet.

‘Just a second.’ Mark’s voice cut through the excitement. ‘There’s one more thing.’

He got up from the table and dropped to one knee in front of her.

‘Nicky.’ From his pocket he produced the most beautiful ring Nicky had ever seen. ‘Will you marry me?’

Cheers erupted from the table as Nicky nodded, unable to speak. Mark stood and picked her up, kissing her intently. They were swarmed by their friends coming in for pats on the back. Jane appeared at Nicky’s side and wrapped her in a quick, tight embrace. ‘I’m so happy for you,’ she said. ‘Everything is falling into place.’

Mark slipped between them, draping his arm around Nicky’s shoulder. ‘Did she show you the ring?’ he asked Jane.

‘Can’t miss it,’ Jane said warmly.

The sapphire-cut diamond sat large on Nicky’s finger. Her cheeks went red as Jane held her hand up, admiring it once more.

‘Maybe we should take a raincheck on Currie’s,’ Jane said. ‘You two probably have other things you want to do tonight.’

‘Oh, but …’ Nicky looked up at Mark, who was gazing at her intently. She knew what that gaze meant. She turned back to her friend. ‘Okay. But promise me we’ll catch up properly soon.’

‘Of course,’ said Jane, and kissed her goodbye.

Mark trailed his fingers through Nicky’s hair. ‘Is she okay?’

‘What do you mean?’ Nicky said with a frown.

‘I don’t know. She seemed a bit … off.’

‘Off?’

Mark nodded. ‘Yeah. Just that look she gave you on the way out.’