A wry smile broke across Terri’s face. “Good evening, all. And aren’t there so many of you this evening? If I didn’t know any better I’d almost believe a certain someone had let slip about tonight’s giveaway.”

Teddy sank down in his seat like that would make him any less visible and the whole group pretended not to look at him.

“So,” Terri went on. “Let’s get housekeeping out of the way first. I’m going to pass the clipboard round for you to all sign in. And Val, that will require your full name and not just a love heart scribbled next to some old landline number you’re still banking on getting back. And yes, the answer is still no. In the unlikely event of a fire, I remind you to all leave calmly and quietly and congregate in the parking lot at the top of town. They used to advise that you leave all your belongings behind during these kinds of situations but please don’t. I’m not sure even one of Teddy’s hugs will keep the cold off your kidneys, so please bring your coats with you. Finally, please feel free to help yourself to tea, coffee and a pee as and when you need to. There are no hall passes here, so no need to ask me. Restrooms are right at the back of the hall through that door, so none of us have to listen to Val’s IBS wreak havoc with some poor cubicle. And no, Val, that’s not the only reason I’m always gonna say no to you, sweetpea.”

“Now,” said Terri, passing the clipboard out, “tonight’s a special one in that we welcome some of our friends from Lake Wranglestone to the group. So please can we all give them a warm West Wranglestone welcome?”

Everyone looked around to extend their greetings and Teddy pointed at Peter. “Peter!”

“Don’t,” said Peter slapping Teddy’s thigh.