Page 104 of The Admiral's Daughter

“Shut up,” I grumble, pulling her inside. Okay, so yes, I seem to fall apart now and then when I miss her, but that’s okay. It’s my prerogative to lounge around my place in ratty pyjamas and fluffy socks, eating ice cream out of the tub.

“Cleo, my darling, we have just under two hours until you’re supposed to be centre of attention at your not-so-surprise birthday party.”

Ugh, I know she’s right, but I’m not in a party mood at all. River still has twelve weeks until she’s home, and I’d rather delay any celebrations until then.

“She’s video calling you later, isn’t she?” Honor asks, noticing my attention slipping back to River.

“Yes.” I sigh.

“Then enough with the pity party. At least you have a girlfriend.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

Honor rolls her eyes. “It means you could still be trolling the bars every Saturday night for hookups that left you underwhelmed.”

“Hmm. True! Okay, I’ll snap out of it.”

“That’s my girl.” Honor smiles.

I take a second to really look at my best friend. “You look great, H. That body suit is perfect on you!”

“Oh, I know,” she smirks. “Let’s hope the hot bartender agrees.”

I laugh because I should have known she’d already have someone lined up for the night.

“Your mum will be here in…ten minutes,” she says, glancing at her elegant wristwatch. “That means you’re on a countdown to choose your outfit, otherwise you’ll have to deal with her rifling through your closet.”

A shiver runs down my spine. “Nope, once was enough, thank you.”

I love my mum dearly, but she turns into a bit of a fashion monster when in charge of finding clothes. We’ll never get out of here in time if she starts, so I really do need to get a move on.

I’ve just pulled my favourite forest green shift dress over my head when I hear Honor exchanging hugs and kisses with my mum. Walking around the corner, I smile widely because she looks so good.

“You look lovely, dear,” mum exclaims, holding her arms out wide, waiting for me to step into them.

“You too. I love this colour on you.”

“Red usually washes me out, but this shade seems okay,” she replies, smoothing down her cocktail dress.

“You look yummy,” Honor declares, making us all laugh. “Now, are we ready to go to the restaurant? I’m ready for a drink.”

“Yeah, that’s what you’re ready for,” I mutter.

Mum chuckles. “Is there a man on the horizon, Honor?”

“Always.” She grins.

The cab ride is full of laughter and silliness, but a small ache still lingers in my chest as I think of River. She sentme a bouquet this morning, and a dozen messages wishing me happy birthday from her and her bunkies. I can’t wait to video chat with her tonight. One way or another, I’m having birthday sex with the woman of my dreams.

The restaurant is classy, not snobbish. There are a lot of exposed bricks and pipework so it’s modern but not bougie. It’s my first time here, but Honor told me I absolutely had to have my birthday bash here because it was simply divine. Her words exactly. Now I’m guessing the hunky barman is the divine part she was referring to. It doesn’t matter. The place looks great and is packed with all my family and friends. We’re dressed up, ready for a good meal and a dance. Honor, who earns a significant amount of money more than me, has hired out the entire place.

I spend at least half an hour greeting everyone and having a quick catch-up. My editor is here, as well as a few colleagues. No doubt he’ll try to get some shoptalk in, but I know Honor will intercept if needed.

“Enjoying yourself?” Honor asks a few hours into the party.

I have to admit I am. “It’s perfect, H. Thank you so much!”

She beams and scoops me into a hug. “The night isn’t over yet.”