I sighed, wishing that I could ignore at least Jason’s text. But, with the damage to my mood already done, I felt that I had no choice but to read it – and to read it first. Because while Ruby’s text might inadvertently make me feel like a personal and professional failure, it would still be less depressing than whatever Sir Shaggalot had to say, and I wanted to save the best, or at least the best-intentioned, for last.

Propping myself up on pillows, I began to read, immediately interested to note that, in contrast to Jason’s other recent messages, in which his tone was meanderingly reflective and regretful – like Winnie the Pooh with an undercurrent of Eeyore – this one was direct and to the point to an almost clinical degree.

Would like to say it was good to see you tonight, but it wasn’t and, believe it or not, my evening only got worse. There are things I need to tell you. I’d rather explain face-to-face, but if you prefer, I’ll put it in an email tomorrow. But in-person would be better – for you, not for me. I’m sure you’ll have questions. Let me know. And I’m sorry – still. J

I frowned at the screen, surprised to discover that, on this occasion, curiosity was my overwhelming response, way ahead of frustration, irritation or exhaustion. And it came as a further shock to realise that I was actually toying with the idea of meeting him.

I wondered for a moment about consulting Ruby. But I knew that there would be little point in that, other than to share the intrigue. She’d only explode, either by text or, worse still, by phone and I just wasn’t up to that conversation right now.

I closed Jason’s text and opened hers.

Great to see you today but was sad to find you so low. I hope it’s nothing to do with Jason. Don’t waste any time on that bastard, Edie. He’s so not worth it and remember, you can call on me any time. Tell me if he bothers you again. You don’t have to handle him, or that creep Cameron, on your own. xx

After a moment spent gazing at the screen, and aware of an undefined, embryonic anxiety, I reopened Jason’s text and replied.

Tomorrow after work – 6pm? Cheshire Cheese again?

His reply arrived within seconds.

See you there.

I inhaled deeply and, as I let the breath go, I felt my anxiety subsiding and being gradually replaced by something else. Whether it was a sense of calm or delayed shock kicking in, I wasn’t sure, but as I switched my phone to silent and placed it face down on the bedside table, of one thing I was certain: I didn’t want to reply to Ruby just yet.

Chapter 16