I frown, not really following.
‘People might think we’re having an affair,’ he says, whispering the last word like someone might hear him. I laugh.
‘Really, Adam? Why on earth would people jump to that conclusion?’
‘Well, I don’t know. I always feel like Camilla’s group of friends are particularly keen to keep tabs; whether that’s because they’re being protective of me, or of Camilla’s memory, I don’t know. And then there’s the fact that it’s a tiny village and people like to talk?’
‘Oh, yes. I’m beginning to understand that.’ We’re still standing in the compact hallway. Adam’s so close I can smell his aftershave – a spiced, woody scent. ‘Really, I can go. I realise I’ve put you on the spot turning up like this.’ I gaze down at the floor.
‘Do you want a drink?’ His voice is calmer now, and his posture is relaxing.
‘If you’re sure, then yes please. I haven’t got anyone else—’ my voice catches, ‘—to turn to. I’m sorry.’
Adam nods. ‘I’m glad you felt you could come here.’ He tentatively places his hand on my shoulder, then leads me down the hallway into his home.
Chapter 36
KATIE
Eight years ago
She twizzled the ring around on her finger, mesmerised by the light refracting off the diamond, and then she removed it, placing it back inside the red velvet box. She’d been overcome when Tom had flipped the lid open to reveal the shining, antique single diamond-set ring at the picnic. She had been torn between excitement and apprehension. But she’d been careful to only show Tom her excitement. He’d gone to a lot of trouble; she couldn’t very well refuse it. Instead, she’d covered her shocked reaction with a display of affection.
‘It’s the beginning of our future together, Katie. I’ve got money saved; we could get married this year,’ Tom had said, his words passionate, but also rushed, as though he’d consumed a dozen coffees. ‘It’s the best I could afford. That’s all I want for you: the best. Always.’
Katie hugged her knees as she recalled his words. He hadn’t lied when he’d told her he had the best surprise for her, but she never imagined he’d be proposing. She’d been contemplating her relationship with Tom lately – where it was going; if he was right for her. This sudden move on his part should feel amazing: it should fill her with joy, not trepidation. Were they in the right place to make such a huge decision about their future? His love for her was obvious, but she couldn’t be certain hers for him was enough.
But she’d said yes.
She could change her mind later. It wasn’t as if the date had been agreed. People break off engagements all the time. And she might come around to the idea yet. She should give it some time to sink in. Maybe get her friends’ opinions.
While he was at work, Katie sent a group text to her friends. Keen to make up for letting them down on their usual plans, she hammered out a message that she hoped would help justify her choice to spend the bank holiday with Tom, not them.
You’ll never guess the surprise Tom sprung on me … only a bloody engagement ring! Squeee! Sorry for not spending the time with you guys, but he’d had it all planned. K xx
She tapped her mobile anxiously as she awaited some responses. Finally, several dings alerted her to messages.
Oh, that’s really great, hun – so pleased for you. Had no idea you were that serious xx
Sammie’s message made Katie squirm a bit, but it was Isaac’s she was more concerned about.
Really? Wow, that is a shock. What did you say? Xx
Isaac’s reply could be taken two ways. Katie thought it came across a bit sarcastic, but it was difficult to attain meaning from text – intention and tone could be misinterpreted.
It was a surprise, most definitely. I didn’t see it coming. I said yes. Xx
After a few more questions and a promise to get together for a proper chat they signed off, telling Katie to let them know when she and Tom were both free so they could begin organising an engagement party.
On the whole, they’d appeared happy for her, which she was relieved about. She wondered if they’d question her decision; talk about it behind her back. Discuss whether they thought she was rushing into it. No doubt it wouldn’t be long before they called her individually to gain a fuller picture. It’s what she’d do if one of them announced a sudden engagement.
Her mobile pinged and her shoulders slumped as she read a new text from Isaac. She had a feeling he’d be the first to comment privately.
Hey, babe. Hope you don’t think I’m being negative, but … are you absolutely sure you want to do this? You don’t think he’s making false promises so you’ll stay with him? I hope I’m wrong. But you know I only ever have your best interests at heart. You mean the world to me, you know that. And after the other night I thought things might have changed. XXX
***
TOM
And after the other night I thought things might have changed. XXX
Well, that’s just perfect. I read the text over and over, getting angrier each time. I thought I might’ve been overreacting when I checked her phone before; jumping to conclusions. But no. I’d been right. They’re clearly at it behind my back. What other night? The one where Katie said she had to nip to the shop to get some more wine and she was gone for almost an hour? She’d told me she’d run into a friend and they’d chatted for ages.
The liar. She was seeing him.
Chapter 37
BETH
Now
I’m relieved I’ve spoken to Adam and that he didn’t shun me. Now, though, as I walk through the village towards nursery, it’s Zoey I’m worried about facing. I’m scared of what’s to come: how much she already
