Johnny resumed his seat, and looked around the table. ‘As you know, we like to keep a friendly eye on development on our island, so following on from what the professor had to say, there is another matter I just thought I’d mention, which is that later this year the Trump Organization plans to open a mega resort, with a signature eighteen-hole golf course, beach club, and luxury residences. It is a controversial project as it’s on a clifftop above one of our important temples, Tanah Lot. Many people are particularly concerned about the development’s impact on Bali’s rice terraces and irrigation systems. Overdevelopment on the island in recent years has caused saltwater to leak into groundwater and damage local farms.’ He looked at Rosie. ‘What’s that report say?’

Rosie glanced down at her notes and read, ‘Tourism uses up half of our groundwater supply. That’s partly due to poorly designed hotels that don’t consider the water needs of the locals,’ she said, looking up. ‘Many of our rivers are running dry or they are heavily polluted, the water table is so low it is being drawn on faster than it is being replenished, and we have issues with water salinity. These are critical concerns for residents and for Bali’s tourism industry and economy.’

‘And let’s not forget the great mass of water needed to keep golf courses green,’ Andy added.

Johnny nodded. ‘So what we are doing here at the Kamasan is an example of the future if Bali is to survive, and it shows how we can share our way of life and culture with visitors. Our desalination and cutting-edge environmental designs and practices are as important as the aesthetics. Remember that.’

He straightened up and grinned.

‘So that was the serious news. But before you throw yourselves off the cliffs at Uluwatu –’ He glanced around at each of them with a glint in his eyes. ‘I am delighted to announce that our opening-night, guest-star performer is . . . Bruno Mars!’

There was a ripple of excitement around the table. Grace stared at Johnny in amazement. ‘He’s the biggest recording star since Michael Jackson,’ she said.

‘I’m staggered! Wow, well done, Johnny,’ said Andy in admiration.

Johnny seemed pleased with the effect his announcement had made, but Harold leaned forward and asked, ‘Who is this man?’

‘He’s a global superstar! Think Presley, Prince, Michael Jackson, Ed Sheeran,’ Johnny said. ‘Singer, dancer, composer, instrumentalist. His dance routines are fantastic – like James Brown and The Splits. He’s a brilliant performer and he brings a big show with him – dancers, his band – The Hooligans – plus pyrotechnics and incredible laser lighting.’

‘And where do we hold this extravaganza?’ asked Harold.