Page 50 of Famous Last

“This is like a covert military operation,” said Bev, echoing Spencer’s thoughts. “Did your father come up with these plans?”

Blake ignored her.

“I’ll also give you a map of the location because, as I say, we’re out in the sticks and satnav doesn’t always work. It does mean you’ll need a designated driver for the day, someone who doesn’t drink and can drive you home. But I’m sure you can arrange that. Any questions?”

“Yeah. I have my cousin living with me,” said Prince. “I’m supposed to be staying at home keeping him company this weekend. My mother’s an NHS nurse and has to work.”

“How old is he?”

“Twenty-two.”

“And he can’t look after himself?”

“That’s not the point. He’s our guest. It would be rude and inhospitable to leave him on his own, and we’re not that kind of family.”

“Bring him, then. Email me his details and I’ll make sure he’s added to the letter. Anything else?”

“Is Muriel paying us overtime for this?” asked Prince.

“And for the new party dress I’ll need to buy?” added Bev.

“Any other questions?” asked Blake, ignoring them both. When nothing else came, he pushed his backside off the conference room table and headed for the door. “I’ll see you all tomorrow. Wait here for a minute, and I’ll get the sheet with the directions.”

The moment the door thumped softly closed behind him, Bev began to rant.

“What a fucking cheek,” she said, unusually angry. “I had a nice weekend planned. Now I’ve got to put myself at risk of being fined, or at worst, arrested, just to entertain that fuckwit’s whims and wishes.”

“Come on, Bev,” said Prince. “It’ll be a laugh. I don’t drink anyway, so I’ll drive as long as we share the cost of petrol. Can you meet outside Tooting Broadway station, Spencer?”

“Of course. What about Bev? Are you going to pick her up from home?”

“I haven’t said I’m going yet,” she said, folding her arms.

“You’re going,” said Prince.

“You’re definitely going, if I have to go,” said Spencer at the same time.

All three of them laughed together.

“Okay, but no way are you picking me up,” she said, mugging at Prince. “I’m a big girl, and don’t want you coming all the way up here. That would be a waste of time and petrol. But I’m going to need a trip to the hair salon and I really am buyinga new dress. Actually, we should order an Uber and charge the company—”

“He’s coming back,” said Prince, staring out through the conference room glass.

Blake returned and handed out the instructions, a copy to each of them.

“Before you all go, I need you to give me your word you’ll say nothing to any of the guests, and especially to Ambika’s family, about Spencer and me, and our little dalliance—”

“Blake,” said Spencer, stunned at Blake’s words. “Prince has no idea.”

“Oh, please,” said Prince, rolling his eyes. “Your office romance? Has to be the world’s worst-kept secret.”

“Careful, Prince,” said Blake, raising an eyebrow. “People in glass houses and all that.”

Spencer had no idea what he meant, but Prince quietened instantly.

“We promise not to say a thing, okay?” said Bev, not bothering to hide her irritation. “Now can I go? I’ve got a ton of work to do, especially now my weekend has been hijacked.”

“Yes, of course. Thank you for agreeing to this. Uh, Spencer,” said Blake, as the others filed out. “Can you stay back, please? I need a private word.”

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