The younger woman placed a hand over Magenta’s and, in doing so, revealed the deep valley given scant protection by a flimsy and none too subtle dress. An action, and for the reasons she had only just finished considering no doubt, Elaine could see had met with some success as Magenta’s face creased into an indulgent smile. “You know the rules, Johanna. When you introduce another couple to the Club and they are considered… worthy… then you’ll be the one placing the husband in that relationship into the cage.” The eyes of their hostess found Elaine’s then and there was, despite her indulgence, something long-suffering in them. As if, along with Elaine herself, she found it hard to visualise the young redhead possessing enough skills of persuasion and the articulacy that went with such in

