‘I see.’ Nell sipped her wine, instantly understanding the situation and why Penny was so embarrassed. Bloody Marigold must have seen her pass and barged in because she was jealous. Typical. Naomi being ill was probably just an excuse. That woman really was too much. ‘Well, I think we can work this one out pretty easily.’ She gestured to a spare seat at the table. ‘Marigold isn’t getting enough attention, and is trying to create a drama with herself at the centre. I’m sure Naomi’s perfectly fine. Come and join us, by the way, the food’s delicious.’

Penny sat down, visibly relaxing, and Takis poured her some of the wine.

‘Isn’t it glorious here?’ She looked out at the sun sparkling on a shimmering sea, and smiled at the sound of children laughing as they ran along the silky white sand. Here and there, gorgeous young women bronzed themselves on white plastic sunbeds sipping mojitos from the pop-up bar, while the men sat in the shade drinking cold beer and surreptitiously checking their phones.

‘Thank you,’ Takis said simply. ‘It is a beautiful place.’ He sighed gustily. ‘If only we could get a few more visitors.’

Nell stood up suddenly, a wave of guilt assailing her. ‘Maybe I’d better get my phone. Just in case.’

Her room had been tidied and the bed made, probably by Ariadne, and her phone sat on top of the crisp white duvet cover.

There were three messages from Willow, each more agitated than the last. Oh God, thought Nell, Naomi really is ill. She instantly called her daughter, trying to remain calm.

‘Mum!’ Willow replied after only two rings. ‘Can you come straight over? Marigold thinks Naomi is really quite ill but you know what she’s like, always overreacting to things. Can you come and see what you think?’

‘Of course,’ Nell grabbed her bag, ‘I’ll get a cab now.’

The others were still sitting sunning themselves at the table.

‘Actually,’ she admitted, making a face that Penny immediately understood, ‘Marigold could be right. Apparently Naomi is a bit off-colour. I’m just going to lend a hand. Could you put mine on my bill, Takis?’

‘On the house, madame,’ he bowed.

‘Takis, no!’ Nell shook her head, smiling. ‘That’s no way to do business. We know you like us. I want to pay. See you later, girls!’

Penny stood up. ‘Do you mind if I come with you? Just in case you need moral support.’

‘Of course. You can distract the dreadful Marigold.’

There was a cab waiting hopefully outside the cafe two doors along, and they climbed in. Ten minutes later they were running up the staircase at the side of the boathouse.