You Know Me Better Than Anyone
Max and Amy talk on the phone:
‘Have you heard the news?’
‘What are you talking about, Max?’
‘I’ve been told Malcolm Taylor is on the shortlist.’
‘We all heard that rumour days ago.’
‘We all . . .’
‘Malcolm, Helen and I.’
‘And you didn’t think to let me know?’
‘Why would I?’
‘I told you why. He’s not doing interviews.’
‘So?’
‘I need something big to keep the magazine going.’
‘Which is what to me?’
‘From what I’ve heard he’s the last widely recognisable author on the list. Coetzee and Strout are out. You just get me into the house. I’ll do the rest.’
Silence.
‘I’m sorry. I’m going about this all wrong. I’m under a lot of stress. I need your help.’
‘I spoke to Liam. He’s willing to talk to you.’
‘Liam? Oh, thanks, but right now, Malcolm is the main game. It would make my reputation if I could secure the interview he won’t give.’
‘But I spoke to Liam. He’s expecting —’
‘That story is on the back burner. Why are you being like this?’
‘You tell me, you read my diary, you know me better than anyone.’
Silence.
‘Please, Amy, the things I said at the V&A were unfair. I was angry. Hurt.’
Silence.
‘The diary captures you at your worst, it’s true, but it also reveals you for who you really are.’
Silence.
‘I told you I re-read the diary because I wanted to hate you. That isn’t true. Not really.’
Silence.
‘Amy? Amy?’
‘Yes.’
‘I’m trying to say I’m sorry.’
Silence.
‘Amy?’
‘Be here tomorrow at six. I’ll message the address.’