She emerged, damp and slightly more upbeat. I eyed her and topped up her wine for her. "Need a jumper?" I asked her - she'd opted for a vest but no bra and her nipples were clearly visible through the semi-translucent cream cotton.

"Unless we're expecting company, no. Are we expecting anyone?"

"Nobody knows I'm here except you and my parents," I said. "I could fling myself off the edge of the world and nobody would be the wiser."

"Then unless it bugs you..."

"It doesn't," I said. "Whatever works for you. I've always been easy like that."

She touched my hand. "You're so lovely to be around."

"You're the...