Gwen had no desire to traipse around Barnet until her feet hurt. The moment she spotted a Caffè Nero, she headed straight for it, dragging Caroline with her. This wasn’t a place that could satisfy her tea needs, but there were other things on the menu that were perfectly acceptable alternatives over which the two of them could have a little chat.

“Calories be damned, I’m getting a Hot Chocolate Milano. Pick whatever you want. It’ll be my treat.”