‘Memory is a very unreliable thing,’ Celia replies. ‘Especially in your situation, where you have a blank spot. It’s entirely possible that your brain could create false memories that might trick you into believing they’re real.’ She picks up a custard crown and takes a bite. ‘Mm, this is heavenly. I’ve already been such a greedy Gertie this morning, but I can’t resist a good hotel breakfast. Sorry, as I was saying, memories are tricky little beasts. I know mine’s getting worse as I get older!’

‘You’re right,’ I reply. ‘I should probably stop driving myself mad trying to remember what happened. It’s just a bit disconcerting, you know?’

‘Well, yes and no.’ Celia gives me a smile and reaches across to pat my hand. ‘Maybe it’s your body’s way of blocking out an unpleasant thing. I mean, who really wants to remember fainting and hitting your head on a desk?’

If only that were all I was blocking out. ‘You’re right, as usual.’

‘It’s nice to be right occasionally. Now, tell me, why aren’t you eating anything?’ As Celia takes another bite of her pastry, flakes drop onto her jumper. She brushes them off.

‘Well, aside from the flashback thing, I think I’m a bit hungover.’

‘Aah, that explains why you’re looking so green. You should have some more tea, get back into bed and catch up on your sleep. Hopefully you’ll have recovered by lunchtime.’

‘I’d feel so lazy doing that.’

‘Nonsense.’ She wipes her fingers on the corner of one of the napkins. ‘This is your anniversary weekend. You need to get better so you can enjoy the rest of it. Sleep will help.’

‘You sure you don’t mind?’

‘Why should I mind?’ She takes a sip of tea.

‘What about the others? Won’t they be expecting me to show my face? What are they going to do today?’

‘Let me see…’ She counts off the others on her fingers. ‘Malcolm’s playing snooker in the bar with another of the guests; Madeline’s like you – in her room, a little worse for wear; I sent Nick and Toby for a walk. And you said your dad’s gone for a walk too.’

‘Yes.’

‘Well, there you go! I’m going to find a quiet spot by the fire in one of the lounges and settle down with my novel.’ She reaches into her bag and takes out a small enamel pot. ‘Now, have a couple of these headache tabs and climb into bed. We can meet later when you’re feeling better.’