When she called Tina and then Mel from the train, she could barely recall what she’d said to Lawrence, even though it was less than an hour ago. She had never stood up to him in all the time she’d known him, had never felt she’d had the upper hand, ever. She’d always disintegrated in tears and frustration. But this time Mel had pushed her, her mother and friends had supported her, the lawyers had worked quickly, and she’d been prepared. In standing up to Lawrence, she now realised, she had rattled him.

But most of all, she now knew there’d been another voice in her corner – and that was the voice of a woman alone, who’d been brave and strong, and gutsy, despite everything that had happened to her. Although Grace’s own problems might pale in comparison to hers, Grace suddenly smiled – you never knew what you could do until you were tested, or where life might take you.

‘I owe you one, K’tut!’ She blew a kiss to the sky outside the train speeding her forward.

*

The sun had set by the time Putu reached the Kamasan entrance, which was packed with limousines and staff ushering guests into the magnificent lobby while flashes from cameras sparked like fireflies. The press were now banned from the grounds and hotel complex as they’d had their red-carpet moments, opening photos and sound grabs earlier. The mega names present were not to be photographed by the paparazzi as they let their hair down and enjoyed themselves in the protection and privacy of the Kamasan.

Grace hurried through the staff entrance, talking to Rosie on her phone. ‘I’m in the kitchen behind the main bar. Where are you?’

‘On the mezzanine with the Pangisars. Take the stairs up from the bar and I’ll meet you there.’

Grace raced up the quieter set of stairs, where the guests wouldn’t see her. She didn’t want to join the party in her day clothes.

‘How’s it going?’ she panted when she reached Rosie.

Rosie smiled at her. ‘All systems go. C’mon, there’s a small bedroom here where you can get ready.’

‘Thanks, Rosie. Do you know if my friend Mel dropped off my bag?’ Grace hadn’t had time to buy anything new but had packed a dress and shoes in a hurry and asked Mel to bring them to the hotel.

‘Mmm, I’m not sure,’ said Rosie distractedly. ‘Here we are.’ She pushed a door open. Standing on a table was a bucket of iced champagne and a small vase of flowers.

‘This is for you from Johnny.’ Rosie poured her a glass. ‘I only just opened it.’

Grace looked around but couldn’t see her overnight bag.

‘We’ll celebrate properly afterwards,’ Rosie said. ‘But for now, Johnny and your friend Melanie have a little surprise for you. Check the dressing room.’