Page 21 of The Invitation

“I split up with my boyfriend,” I say grudgingly. “I moved back home with my parents and moved out again last night. I’m staying with a friend.” I shrug. “Her place is on the tiny side of small.”

“You split up with Nick?” he asks, surprised as he cleans his glasses. “Shit, I’m sorry to hear that.”

“It’s for the best.”

“Why have you moved out of your parents’?”

“Why’d you think, Gary?” I ask sardonically. I would havelovedto avoid divulging the circumstances of me seeking a job at a rival financialadvisory company, but having the name Lazenby shat all over that wish. Everyone knows of Lazenby Finance.

“Oh,” Gary breathes, slipping his glasses back on. “Daddy’s been reminding you of your obligations as a woman again, has he?”

“You got it.”

“And now I’m up to speed on your new relationship status, I’m guessing Nick—”

“Suggested babies, yes.”

“Well, good for you for sticking to your guns.” He stands. “Heard anything from Mr. Jarvis?”

“He’s calmed down. Thanks for the heads-up yesterday about Tilda Spector, by the way.”

“No problem. Don’t bank on the rumours being true, though, okay?” Translated,Don’t slack on securing new clients. “And even if they are, she’s got the pick of the bunch to leave her precious clients with.”

Nodding, I glance at my clock, seeing I’ve only got half an hour. “I have an annual review with Mrs. Willer at one.”

“Sure, you get on. I’ve got a meeting with the senior partners.”

I try so hard to hide my curiosity. Since Paul Montgomery left after his health scare, everyone is wondering who’ll replace him. Gary knows I’m capable, and I know he’s got my back. But he’s also a fan of Leighton Steers. All the partners are.

“A meeting with all the partners?” That’s rare.

Gary smiles. “All of them. We’re keeping an eye on Galactia.”

“Me too,” I chirp. I’m living for the day the rumours are no longer rumours and my investment recommendations tomanyof my clients pay off.

Gary leaves, and I brush a stray strand back and tuck it into my bun, collecting Mrs. Willer’s file to recap on my agenda, but my mobile ringing stalls me opening the file. I frown down at the unknown number, letting it ring off to voicemail. A few seconds later, it’s ringing again. I answer.

“Amelia Lazenby.”

“Good afternoon, Amelia, it’s Anouska from Arlington Hall.”

I sit up straight in my chair. “Hi.”

“I hope you don’t mind, I got your number from the medical form you completed yesterday before your treatments.”

“No problem, how can I help you?”

“Your wallet was found in the ladies’ changing rooms this morning by the cleaners.”

“Oh?” I dip down by my desk and pull my handbag up onto my lap. “I hadn’t noticed it was missing.”

“It has numerous bank cards and your driver’s licence inside. I hope you don’t mind, I had to open it to see who it belonged to.”

“Not at all.” A good rummage through my bag reveals no wallet. “I use Apple Pay for everything these days.” Hence I hadn’t noticed it missing.

“I’ll keep it in the safe until you can collect it.”

“Thanks.”

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