There were a lot of wonderful moments. Laughing, feasting, dancing to old-time classics. Introducing Ezra and Naomi to my new friends. Exchanging stories and catching the man I loved staring at me from across the garden, looking as though he loved me, too.
Some of the Changelings were there, looking positively splendid in a range of vibrant outfits as they unashamedly gave it their all on the dance floor.
I instigated a lacklustre truce with Lizzie. She’d spent most of the evening demonstrating what a fabulous time she was having, making sure everyone heard about her exciting new job opportunities, and how she hoped that Hattie was coping without her, because, well, she loved her old boss and everything, but bigger, better things were calling.
About halfway through the evening, when I popped inside to check how the caterers were getting on, I spotted her slipping out of the office.
‘Lizzie.’
She spun around, the look of startlement on her face swiftly replaced with a bright smile.
‘Oh. Sophie. I was heading for the bathroom. I hate Portaloos and I didn’t think Hattie would mind me using hers, given that it’s me. While I was here, I couldn’t resist a peek inside.’
‘Of course. I’m really glad you came this evening. I hope it’s not too strange.’
‘I wouldn’t have missed it for the world. Hattie wasn’t just my boss; she was my friend and my mentor. For fourteen years. I really care about her.’
I nodded. ‘It’s been a big adjustment, you leaving.’
She smirked. ‘I’ll bet it has. I heard she’s hired Deirdre, though. So I’m sure she’ll be fine. Once this mystery project’s done with, anyway.’
‘She’s nearly completed it, so the worst is over.’
‘That’s good. Find anything interesting?’
I shrugged. ‘You know I’m not allowed to say anything.’
‘Of course. Well, I’d better get back to Joss.’ She gave me another bright smile and left.
* * *
As the sun began to set, casting the whole party in a shimmering glow, Gideon caught hold of my hand and led me away, into the shadows.
‘Where are you taking me?’ I giggled, feeling a pleasant buzz from a glass or three of wine.
‘Somewhere private. I can’t stand to look at you a moment longer.’
‘Excuse me?’ I tried to stop walking, but he kept tugging me forwards.
‘A moment longer, without doing this.’
He let us both come to a stop then, gently manoeuvring me around to lean against the brick of the rose-garden wall as he nestled up against me for a long, delicious kiss.
‘Good lady, would you allow me to show you my roses? They are particularly fetching this time of year.’
I giggled again, the less squiffy section of my brain marvelling that I could laugh at the mention of roses. ‘Is that a euphemism for something else?’
He grinned. ‘It is not. But it is an excuse to kiss you some more.’
I followed him into the garden where I’d sprinted away from him less than three months ago with barely a second thought.
‘How is it?’ he asked, genuine concern in his eyes as I slowly wandered over to a climbing rose.
‘It’s beautiful,’ I breathed, so relieved that I meant it. ‘I actually snuck in here the week before last and stole some for my nest.’
‘Your what?’
I smiled, waiting for him to come and playfully pull me against his chest. ‘I’m sworn to secrecy. All you need to know is that I can now handle a rose without wanting to pass out.’
