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Amrita smiled at the small endearment. ‘Nowhere, Aunty-ji. I was just getting some fresh air and making a quick call.’

‘I thought perhaps you had gone to find your imaginary boyfriend.’

‘He’s not imaginary, Aunty-ji. I just spoke with him. He had to finish off some work before he could come. He’ll be here for tomorrow.’

‘Too busy working to come and meet us?’ She tutted.

‘It’s my fault. I only invited him very last minute.’

‘So, what does he do that is so much more important than meeting us?’

‘He’s an architect. He’s working on a big historic restoration and refurbishment at the moment. It’s very important.’

Before the older woman could reply, a glass of something pink and suspiciously fruity was shoved into Amrita’s hand and her cousin was pulling her away. ‘Come and dance. Girls’ side first!’

‘Thank you!’ Amrita whispered as they wove their way through the many tables and relatives to the dance floor.

‘You looked like you needed saving. Don’t get me wrong. I love my nani, but she can be a real battleaxe.’

‘I couldn’t possibly comment.’ Amrita grinned.

‘Maybe after a few more rose and lychee cocktails you will!’

‘Probably.’

‘So where is this Jamie I’ve heard so much about? I’ve been dying to meet the new source of family gossip!’

‘You really want to talk about me the night before your wedding?’

‘Yes! Arjun and I have known each other for years. We were a forgone conclusion. Now you and this mysterious Jamie… that’s much more exciting!’

‘He just got caught at work like I warned you he might. He’s heading here now.’ Amrita shook her head. ‘You act like it’s some salacious scandal.’

‘It’s not a scandal… unless there’s things you’re not telling me. After what Suraj⁠—’

‘I thought we weren’t mentioning his name. Ever again.’

‘Sorry. But after… what happened, we worried about you. You suddenly having a guy – and a white one – that no one has ever met yet who means enough to you to ask to bring him to my wedding⁠—’

‘I seem to remember it was less me asking, and more you demanding.’

‘Even so.’

‘You said it was OK.’

‘Because it is. I love you dearly, Amrita. But you are older than me. I want to see you happy too. And this is the first time in forever that you’ve suggested bringing someone to a family event. Of course I want to meet him. Now dish! I’m the bride. It’s my special day. And you are my bridesmaid, so I get to demand anything I want. And I want more gossip!’

‘I thought I was just your bridesmaid because I don’t let the aunties boss me around.’

‘It is a useful talent.’ Kiran laughed. ‘But I love you too. And you love me. So, you won’t deprive me of gossip!’

‘There’s really not that much more to say than what you already know.’ Amrita shrugged as her feet found the familiar steps of the dance. ‘Like I told you, he’s someone I met through work, and I really like him. He’s sweet and kind and respectful… and he doesn’t mind being told when he’s wrong.’

‘He admits when he’s wrong?’

‘He does. Eventually. But he’s nice about it. Even apologised at first. And he makes me laugh, Kiran. Really laugh. And he has these amazing eyes. They’re sort of grey and blue at the same time and seem to change colour with his mood.’

Kiran’s feet hesitated, missing a beat as she stared at her cousin. ‘This is really serious for you, isn’t it? I mean, I’d hoped, but you really do like him, don’t you?’