Can You Keep a Secret?

by Sophie Kinsella

with a flourish. “Ready to go to the meeting, Artemis?” says Paul, coming out of his office with his briefcase and a magazine in his hand. “And by the way, Nick,” he adds ominously. “Before I go, would you mind telling me what on earth possessed you to put a coupon ad for Panther Bars in”—he consults the front cover—“Bowling Weekly magazine? I’m assuming it was you, as this is your product?” Shit. Double shit. I didn’t think Paul would ever find out about that. Nick shoots me a dirty look, and I pull an agonized face back. “Well,” he begins in a truculent voice, “yes, Paul. Panther Bars are my product. But as it happens—” Oh, God. I can’t let him take the blame. “Paul,” I say, raising my hand. “Actually,