‘Not remotely bothered,’ I replied emphatically. ‘I’m going to leave all the logistics and planning to Giles. My role is simply to shop and skivvy as requested. So you’ll come along with Kerry?’ I asked. ‘Unless, of course, you’re still suffering PTSD from the last one?’

‘The flashbacks have been decreasing steadily.’

‘Good to hear.’

‘But if the invite is genuine…’

‘Of course it is!’

‘In that case, thank you and I’d love to come. Kerry promises me that something always kicks off. And hopefully this time,’ he said, standing up and turning towards the bar, ‘it won’t be us.’

Chapter 33

‘And you are absolutely certain that this doesn’t look at all fuddy-duddy?’ asked Giles, presenting himself for inspection in front of my armchair, as I sat with Anthony sprawled and snoring across my lap.

‘Giles, as I have already told you several times, you look great,’ I replied, without looking up from my book. ‘The trousers are perfect and that is my number one favourite shirt on you. You know how I love red stripes,’ I murmured absently, whilst adjusting my towelling turban and bathrobe.

‘It’s blue check.’

‘That’s right and I really, really love it.’

He let out a sigh with just a hint of whimper about it, causing me to close my book and place it on the arm of my chair.

‘Why not sit down for a moment?’ I said, pointing at the sofa.

He shook his head. ‘No, no, I’m disturbing you. You read your Hans Rosling book. You must have nearly finished it by now.’

‘I’m on page eleven.’

‘Well, jolly good for you for making it to double figures.’

I laughed. ‘Sit down. You’d be doing me a favour.’

He sat with obvious reluctance, perching on the edge of the sofa.

‘Now, just take a few deep breaths and try to relax,’ I said gently. ‘You and Kerry know each other very well and like each other very much. There are probably fewer uncertainties surrounding this first date than any you’ve ever been on before.’

‘True, true.’ He nodded, adjusting the collar of his shirt. ‘But it also feels so much more important than any other first date.’

‘I think that’s a good thing.’

He looked at me and frowned slightly. ‘Yes, I think it probably is,’ he agreed after a moment.

‘And I was teasing about the shirt,’ I said. ‘You look genuinely, genuinely handsome, and I’m not just saying that because you’re my cousin and I love you.’

‘Step-cousin.’

‘That too.’

He smiled across at me. ‘Thanks, Edie.’

‘Thank you,’ I said, wanting to give him a hug, but not enough to disturb Anthony and shift from my rather comfortable armchair. It had been another busy week at work and I was looking forward to a Saturday night in, consisting only of Anthony, my book and early bed.