‘I could transform
you. I can transform anyone. It’s my job.
Best make-up artist in the business,’ boasted Val, who had been a
make-up assistant on the Harry Potter films. ‘Think about it. I’ll get us another drink. Same again?’

The
next day, I’d woken up with a massive hangover and a hazy memory of our odd
conversation. But as my head became
clearer, I’d considered Val’s idea a little more seriously. Me and Harry had been together now for five
years. We’d settled into a domestic
routine, and I had to admit our relationship had become complacent. I’d lied when I told Val the sex was still
great between us. It wasn’t bad - just a
bit samey. Perhaps it wouldn’t hurt to
spice things up a bit. So Val and I
began to plot a whole scenario.

‘It’s not enough for
you to look unrecognisable,’ Val decided. ‘For the plan to succeed, Harry will
have to see you in a completely unexpected environment. Where would he think you’d never dream of
going?’

I considered for a moment. ‘Apart from a football match? Somewhere like a sleazy night club.’

‘Great. That’s it then. That’s where he has to pick you up.’

I was horrified. ‘But why would I be at a seedy club?’

‘To put on a show,
of course!’

‘You’re kidding.’

‘I know where you
can go to learn proper burlesque striptease,’ continued Val, full of
enthusiasm. ‘They teach you properly.’

‘No way.’

‘Don’t be such a
wimp. I’ll come with you. Quite fancy
learning myself.’

So, after more cajoling from Val and
a glass or two of wine, we’d gone to a burlesque workshop together. It was a bit of a joke at first, and I did
feel slightly self-conscious to start with, but once I got over my initial
shyness, I began to enjoy myself. Like I was tapping into a hidden part of me I
didn’t know existed. Maybe I secretly
liked the idea of showing my body off, but under a totally different persona. Pretending to be someone else kind of freed my
inhibitions. I booked some extra
practice sessions until I had worked out a sexy little routine. Our plan was
coming together........