They had a lovely evening, covering a wide range of topics from politics to travel.

‘This is absolutely delicious,’ said Helen as she tasted the risotto. ‘Is it an authentic Italian recipe?’

‘Yes, it’s one I learned while I was in Positano,’ said Libby. ‘I’ll give you the recipe if you like.’

Henry accepted a top-up of wine from Luca. ‘Do you miss Italy?’ he asked.

‘Terribly,’ said Luca. ‘Though London has its advantages, of course. But there is no place like Positano.’

Libby hated hearing him say that. It reminded her of just how much he had given up to be with her and Izzy. She knew that his heart would always lie in Italy, and that London would never be able to make him anything like as happy as he was back home.

Henry seemed like a very nice guy. He was jovial, polite and interesting to talk to. Libby thought he would be extremely good for Helen – a steady, calming influence on her, which was exactly what she needed. She just hoped that it would work out. There had been too many guys who had let her down, too many disappointments. Another one would probably be too much for her to handle. She was glad that her antidepressants seemed to have had such a positive impact on her, and was so grateful that Helen had been brave enough to give them a try.