Page 56 of Faking It (and falling in love)

“Ah yes, your partner, I remember meeting her at that networking event a few weeks ago.” He smiled.

Philippa had forgotten about that, and how the whole fake relationship had begun. And now it was reality. The word ‘partner’ felt weighty, though. And somehow, the tone Roderick used made her feel a little uncomfortable. She wasn’t sure it was a word Alex would be keen to use, especially given her previous relationship experience, but she knew now wasn’t the time to obsess over that.

“Yes.” Philippa gave a close-lipped smile. “As you’ll see, her ex-wife is trying to take her child out of the country to live. You don’t need me to tell you the legal problems there, but we do need to act quickly.”

“I can see that,” said Roderick, referring to his notes. “She’s looking to go next week. Sounds a bit chaotic, but it must be incredibly upsetting for your partner.”

“Mmm,” said Philippa, frowning.

“I’ll get a letter drafted for you by lunchtime today and we can send it electronically and by post this afternoon. That way we can ensure it arrives before any further plans are made.” Roderick scribbled a note on his yellow pad.

“I’m hoping we don’t need to resort to a Preventative Steps Order,” said Philippa, knowing just how stressful and costly that might be for Alex.

“Agreed,” said Roderick, “but we have that in our back pocket should we need it.”

“Indeed.” Philippa smoothed down her trousers.

“Because based on what you’ve told me, it’s Alex’s name on the birth certificate along with her ex-partner’s, so she has full parental responsibility. She has rights – and, indeed, so does her daughter,” said Roderick.

“She does,” said Philippa, relieved to have his support. Perhaps he wasn’t so bad after all.

“I am sure we can work this out,” he said.

“We can talk about the best way to arrange payment after it’s all done, if that’s ok,” said Philippa.

“No,” he said, holding up his hand. “This one’s on me. I think I owe you one. It’s been a steep learning curve working here, and I appreciate some of the pointers you’ve given me.” He sighed. “This is a very different firm to my last one, but I think for the better. You were right about Sienna. She is a really talented person and has so much to offer us.”

Philippa smiled in surprise. “Well, thank you. That’s very generous of you. I’m aware I can be a bit spiky at times.”

“I think we all can,” said Roderick.

Philippa left his office a few minutes later, revisiting her own prejudices about the man who had annoyed her so much since his arrival. She texted Alex to let her know the wheels were turning, and she received a heart in response.

The rest of the day was filled with the usual round of paperwork and appointments. Philippa thought about what it might be like to go on a proper, real date with Alex and, beyond that, perhaps even go somewhere nice for a day trip, with their daughters. She shook herself from her reverie when her laptop pinged to remind her that she had a meeting with Gerry to discuss the details of the new contract.

The stroll down Colmore Row to Gerry’s office took in Pigeon Park and the cathedral. Philippa had been able to leave her jacket behind, and the warmth of the sun felt good on her skin.

“Good morning, Philippa, how are you doing?” asked Gerry, who had come down to the main reception area to meet her. “I’m fed up with my office, let’s go and grab coffee somewhere else.”

“Sounds ideal. I love a Turkish coffee at that Syrian cafe, so maybe there?” Philippa turned her head in the direction of the establishment she meant.

“Perfect,” said Gerry. “How’s Alex?”

“Ah, she’s good, thanks,” said Philippa, with a smile.

“Glad to hear it. And glad to see you so happy with someone.” Gerry plunged his hands into his pockets. “Of course I’m sorry things didn’t work out with Paul. He’s a good guy.”

“He is,” agreed Philippa.

“But I can see that this works much better for you. And may I say, since the divorce, Paul’s golf is now frighteningly good, so he has you to thank for that.”

Philippa laughed. “My work here is done.”

They took a seat in the cafe and Philippa ordered her customary Turkish Coffee complete with ornate cup, saucer and Turkish Delight.

“You’re a braver person than me,” said Gerry, looking uneasy at the thick, strong coffee. “I’ll stick to my usual latte. Anyway, well done again on winning the contract. Your team were so professional and dynamic, and the product you put forward was excellent.”

“Well, thank you, Gerry. I really appreciate that, and I know the team will as well.” Philippa poured herself some coffee from the small pot on the silver tray. “Of course, the hard work starts here, to get all the right plans and people in place to ensure we deliver what we promised.”

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