Page 7 of The Wisdom of Bug

“I’m not a floral print person, Mags.”

“You used to be. I’ve seen the photos. University Evelyn wore tie-dye.”

“University Evelyn also thought Jägerbombs were a food group. We don’t talk about her.”

Maggie laughed, but there was sadness in it. Evelyn pretended not to notice.

Maggie rolled her eyes. “You’re a cliché, Evie.”

“Only if I alphabetise the shoe boxes.”

“You do that already.”

“Point stands,” Evelyn said, marching into the walk-in. She pulled the first of the empty boxes down and started rearranging, her movements brisk and businesslike. Maggie followed, sat herself on the vanity chair, and provided colour commentary.

“Are you ever going to get another girlfriend, or just fill the spare room with more suits?”

“I don’t date for at least three months after a breakup,” Evelyn said, stacking her blazers by colour.

“You have a spreadsheet for your romantic life?”

“It’s on the cloud,” Evelyn said, straight-faced.

Maggie snorted. “You’re a psycho.”

“I’m organised,” Evelyn replied.

They worked through the closet, Evelyn’s focus unwavering, Maggie’s banter getting looser as the Pinot took hold. By the time they’d filled four bags and a small bin with the detritus of Mindy, both women were tipsy and a little slaphappy.

“I dare you to wear one of her dresses to work on Monday,” Maggie said, holding up a sequined cocktail number that looked like it had been designed by someone with a glitter fetish.

“I’m the CEO of a family company, Mags. I can’t show up looking like a Christmas ornament.”

“Pity. It’d shake the board up.”

“They’re shaken enough by my existence.”

Maggie grinned, clearly picturing it. “I think you could pull it off.”

“I’d rather not.”

When the last box was organised and every hanger aligned, Evelyn stood back and let herself breathe for the first time in hours. The closet looked empty, but also full of possibility.

Maggie plopped down on the ottoman, kicking off her boots. “I take it you’ll be sleeping alone tonight?”

“Alone is good.”

“If you need me, I’m a WhatsApp away. Or, you know, I’ll just show up unannounced like I always do.”

“I’d expect nothing less,” Evelyn said, allowing herself a small smile. “You’re a pain in the arse, but you’re my pain in the arse.”

“Damn right.” Maggie stood, wobbled a little, then steadied herself. “I should go before I start making calls to my own exes.”

“Do you want a cab?”

“I want more wine, but yes, a cab would be great.”

Evelyn made the call, then walked Maggie to the lift. They stood in silence for a moment.