‘You went for a very long run.’ ‘I had a lot to think about. Come in.’ She hesitates. ‘I just wanted to return this book I borrowed.’ ‘You didn’t borrow a book.’ Her eyes flit sideways down to the patio. The message is clear: Parnell is out and about, having a quick smoke and a coffee. I lean forward, pulling my hair from my eyes so I can see him. I wave. He waves back. He could be in Marbella sauntering around enjoying the sunshine in his shorts and T-shirt, but he’s at business. It’s half seven on a Monday morning and the mobile is already glued to his ear, a look of intense concentration fixed on his face. ‘Ta,’ I say, playing along, and take the book from her. Catch-22, anniversary edition. ‘Have you read it?’ ‘Bits of it, but it’s not worth the hassle from Alex, he doesn’t like me reading. I think he’s a bit threatened by anybody with an education.’ ‘Why?’ ‘Why?’ She mimics me slightly. ‘Oh, Elvie, you are a tonic.’ ‘I mean, why are you giving me this?’ She turns to look behind her, checking on Parnell, then taps the book with her forefinger.
