Chapter 27

Chantel

I can see how much the altercation with Craig has upset Kip, but he obviously wants to move on, so I start telling him about tomorrow’s podcast which is already set up for release, and which looks at a TV series that’s just come out based on a well-known fantasy novel.

He spreads some butter on a piece of sourdough, then holds it out to me. Smiling, I take it from him and nibble it while he butters himself another.

He talks about some of the other podcasts I’ve done, and it’s obvious from what he says that he’s really listened to them. I’m incredibly touched. It’s one thing to be aware of Wonderland; it’s another to have listened from beginning to end to more than

“Oh shit,” he says suddenly. “I forgot! I got you a birthday present.” He lifts his briefcase onto his lap, opens it, takes out a gift bag, and hands it to me, replacing his briefcase on the floor.

“Hmm,” I say, shaking it and recognizing the shape of a book, “I wonder what this is? A watch?” I place it on my wrist.