‘It is you. I thought it was when I saw you come through the door, but you’ve grown up so much I can hardly believe it.’ She embraced Poppy in a hug. ‘What are you doing here?’ ‘I might ask the same of you.’ Jean turned to Dennis with a friendly smile. ‘And who is this?’ Poppy heard the words but they barely registered. Glancing over Jean’s shoulder she could see Guy and Algy seated at the next table. ‘Dennis,’ she murmured vaguely. ‘This is Dennis Chapman, my brother’s old school friend.’ ‘Here,’ Dennis said, chuckling. ‘Less of the old if you don’t mind, kid.’ He held out his hand. ‘How do, Jean. Pleased to meet you.’ ‘Hello, Dennis.’ She shook his hand, but there was a trace of coolness in her smile. ‘It’s nice to meet one of Poppy’s friends. Have you known her long?’ He opened his mouth to reply but Algy had risen to his feet and he moved to Poppy’s side, giving her a peck on the cheek. ‘Poppy, old thing. By golly, it’s good to see you looking so – so fine.’ He turned to Dennis, proffering his hand.
