Why did I lie? It came so naturally, so quickly that before I can stop myself more words come out. ‘It was in my locker, like I said. Right down the bottom. It’s actually getting a little big for me, this whole not drinking thing has not only shed weight off my body but my fingers too apparently.’ I try to laugh, but the sound is unnatural. ‘I’ve got to pick it up soon, it’s being resized.’

He’s frowning. ‘How much does that cost?’

Before I can answer, his phone buzzes on the table between us and I see Axel’s name. I’m grateful for the distraction. I need to get my ring now. If I can’t get it back from Daniel I’ll have to get a replica made, find a way to siphon the money from our account, take a photo to a jeweller.

‘Kia ora,’ Cain says. ‘We’re just at – what’s this bar called, Lina?’

I crane my head to look through the window at the sign. ‘A Deeper Blue.’

‘A Deeper Blue, mate. Just off the viaduct… no worries, I’ll order for you both. Pint of lager and a lemon, lime and bitters.’

Axel arrives in a tidy faded black shirt and dark jeans. Claire comes in beside him, winged mascara and a warm smile.

‘Hello, hello, hello,’ he says, shaking Cain’s hand. Planting a kiss on my cheek. Claire comes over next.

‘You look gorgeous as always. Love this top. Where’s it from?’

Discount bin at H&M. ‘Oh, I can’t remember where I picked this one up.’

They find their seats beside us and take up the drinks Cain had ordered for them. I hope it doesn’t turn out to be one of those nights where we forget about money and live like Axel and Claire, drinking cocktails and overeating, only to get a reality check when the bill comes. Cain laughs at something Axel has said, but I miss the joke, occupied instead by thoughts of the ring. I devise intricate plans to get it back but they all end the same way, with me having to see Daniel again. Could I really risk it a second time? Claire touches my wrist.

‘How is work?’

I press a smile to my lips. ‘It’s work,’ I say. ‘You?’

‘Busy, busy. Classes are filling up and Axel is planning on offering yoga and Pilates when he opens the new gym so we might even work together.’

‘Great idea.’

Axel speaks to me now. ‘So the WeStay idea, was I right or was I right?’

I smile at him. ‘One booking down. I’ll admit, it’s okay. It’s actually paying for our dinner tonight.’

‘It’s money for nothing and your place looks beautiful. Cain showed me the listing.’