Page 30 of A Night with Damien Spur

She really liked him.

He had a generous spirit. He’d become a good friend on whom she could depend to give her wise advice when she needed it, from a man’s point of view.

‘For goodness’ sake, Sophie, what’s the matter?’ he said. ‘It’s 7 a.m.’

‘Have you ever taken Viagra?’

‘Why?’

‘Not why. Just tell me.’

‘Calm down. Once in LA. Four women in one day. Needed the staying power.’

‘And you were okay?’

‘Fine. But why do you—’

‘No side effects? Nausea, headaches, upset stomach?’

‘No. No, no. Can I go now?’

‘Yes. And thank you.’

Next, Sophie called Claudia.

‘I know you’re still in bed, but I need your moral support.’

‘What for?’

‘I’m scared… the side effects.’

‘Of what?’

‘Tonight. The Viagra minestrone.’

‘Every medication can have side effects,’ Claudia said. ‘Did you check to see whether Nicholas had any underlying conditions, like I told you?’

‘Yes, I did.’

‘And?’

‘Only one – not having the courage to leave his boring wife.’

‘Well then, I don’t think Viagra will change that. But if you’re prepared to settle for an affair, seeing as you say he doesn’t have any serious medical history, it could be worth the risk. But it’s your call. I don’t want to be responsible if things go wrong.’

How could anything go wrong?

Nicholas needed help. She would free him of his guilt. Emancipate his soul.

Go, Sophie, go. A quick cup of coffee first, a shower and then to work.

No, not the black ceramic cooking pot; too much like a cauldron. Yes, the large two-handled stockpot. Everyday and reassuring.

She sliced and diced the vegetables. A dash of olive oil in the saucepan. Sautéed the onions until soft and pale yellow.

Then, one by one, she dropped in the carrots, celery, potatoes, green beans, courgette, cabbage. Next, a tin of Italian tomatoes and then, after pouring in rich beef stock, she added the rind of a piece of Parmesan, saving the cannellini beans for later.

Bring to the boil and let it simmer.

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