‘Is there one with you holding the baby?’
Maddie put her phone back in her bag and snapped it closed.
‘No, sorry.’
‘Ah, that’s a shame.’
‘Can’t be helped.’
Maddie glanced over at the baby again, now sleeping in its mother’s arms.
‘Maybe next time you see them?’
‘Yes, I must remember to get someone to take one.’
There was something off about her friend’s reaction, Sofia was sure of it. It needed further investigation.
Oblivious to the undertone at the table, Charlotte poured them all another glass.
‘The starters are here. Let’s tuck in.’
A parade of colourful dishes arrived at the table, and Charlotte pointed at each in turn.
‘We’ve gotfava, a dip made with split peas, onion and garlic,kolokithokeftédes,courgette fritters served with a ramekin of yoghurt, andkarpoúzi saláta, a large green salad with watermelon and local cheese. Haven’t I done well?’
Sofia did a thumbs up sign as she tucked into the dishes. A moan escaped her mouth as the separate flavours vied for attention.
‘Full marks, Char.’
Maddie forked up a mouthful of salad although eating was the last thing she felt like doing. But she was going to have to force herself, otherwise the others would know there was something seriously up.
‘Mmmm, this is gorgeous. I think there’s some honey in there as well.’
Charlotte waved her hands.
‘And there’s more to come.’ Charlotte looked at her phone. ‘I’ve orderedgiouvétsi thalassinón, which looks like seafood risotto, but is in fact made with orzo pasta, andkotópoulo lemonáto, chicken with lemon sauce and rice. I think that will be enough.’
Maddie mimed falling off her chair.
‘Crikey. I don’t think I’m going to able to walk after this.’
Sofia beckoned the waiter over.
‘More wine will help us wash it down.’
Two hours later, with all the food eaten, mini ice creams in chocolate, vanilla and strawberry flavours were brought to the table.
Maddie groaned as soon as the waiter left.
‘Who ordered those? I can’t manage another thing.’
Sofia grabbed the chocolate one and ripped off the packaging.
‘It’s a tradition in Greece. If you’ve eaten a meal at the restaurant, they offer you a free dessert, and sometimes a liqueur as well. I think it’s offensive to turn it down.’
Charlotte picked up the vanilla.
‘Well, I don’t want to offend anyone. Mads, you’re left with strawberry.’
