“But why doesn’t she want anyone to know? That’s crazy. How can something like that be kept quiet? And for six months, too.”

Essie had been married twice, in her twenties to Ted Mason, who was twice her age and a big name in the publishing industry, and in her thirties to American crime writer Hank Milligan. Surely, they’ll need to know, Liv thought.

“What about Essie’s fans, and Marlon and Meg?” she said, reaching out for the notebook. “Why on earth would Essie ask me to finish her book?”

Anthony moved the notebook away from her. His phone beeped and he took it from his pocket. He stared at it, then at her. “Only you and I can know about this. No one else. We need to abide by Essie’s request until the first of November.”

“But why?”

He took a moment. “As you know, Essie was a very private person. Whilst her request is unconventional, it is possible. Now, I apologize profusely, but I have an emergency to deal with. May I have your mobile number?”

Liv told it to him. “We need to think about this,” she said. “It’s ridiculous, and her book is finished anyway. I saw a draft copy...”

“Please do as Essie instructs.” Anthony snapped his briefcase shut. “Take time off, and keep everything confidential.”

Liv thought about Jake and the boys, and her mum. How could she hide something like this from them? How could she clean for Platinum and the Cardinals and pretend nothing had happened? “What if I can’t do it?” she said.

He fixed her with a sympathetic gaze. “I understand that before she went into hospital, Essie asked for your help with her work?”

She nodded.

“So, you’ll keep your employment for six months. Essie also asked me to increase your salary, to recognize your new contribution. I trust doubling your hourly rate is satisfactory?”

Liv swallowed hard and felt a creeping hotness under her skin. The extra money would help to pay for Johnny’s laptop, though she’d prefer to have Essie back instead. “What about a funeral?” she asked, her voice cracking.

“Essie has requested a private cremation. I’ll deal with the coroner, register her death and make the funeral arrangements. I’ll be in touch with more details soon.” Anthony stood up. “And there is one other thing...”

Liv folded his handkerchief into the smallest square possible. “What is it?”

“Essie said only you can do this,” he said.

5

CHERRY BLOSSOM

At Essie Starling’s funeral there would be no magnificent floral displays or limousines waiting to whisk mourners to a local hotel for finger sandwiches and warm brandy; no photographs of her as a child or of her hairstyles throughout the years lining the walls; no friends or family members sharing inspirational stories about her life; no publishing people, press or fans. Just how Essie wanted it.