All that GLITTERS

Paula's ring might be fake, but only she knew how precious it was

- Linda Lewis

EIsa took one look at my engagement ring and declared, 'Those aren't diamonds, Paula! They're cubic zirconia. They're fakes.'

She launched into a complicated explanation. Apparently, my 'diamonds' were too perfect to be real. At least, I think that's what she said. She lost me halfway through.

My sister knows all about expensive things, and how much they cost. If you can't decide what to buy, she's the one to ask.

I had wondered how Gareth could afford to buy a diamond ring. But I love him so much, I would happily have worn the ring pull from a can of cola if that's what he'd offered me.

'Are you listening to me?' 'Sorry, I was miles away,' I replied. 'So, they're not real, but it's still a beautiful ring. Gareth didn't say they were diamonds.'

She patted my hand. 'So long as you're happy. Right, let's order. I'm starving.'

I laughed. Elsa eats enough for two horses but never puts on weight.

As sisters go, we couldn't be more different. Elsa's home is a five-bed, three-bathroom new build. I rent a three-bedroom terrace on the less expensive side of the river. She's 5ft 8in in her socks - not that she'd wear socks - with perfectly straight, glossy blonde hair. I'm 5ft 3in, with hair that can't decide if it's straight or curly.