She gifted him a cool smile and asked if he was looking to rent.

‘Not today,’ he apologised, bringing out the photo of Jack Oram. ‘But I think this man was. I’m not sure exactly how long back. A few weeks, I think. He’s called Jack Oram, though he might be using a different name.’

He was holding the photo for her to take, but she seemed reluctant.

‘What’s this in connection with?’

‘He was reported as missing four years back, but he’s been spotted coming out of this office.’

‘It’s not a very good photo, is it? When was it taken?’

‘I’m not sure,’ Rebus admitted.

‘I’ve not seen him,’ the receptionist concluded.

‘Could anyone else have dealt with him?’

‘There’s just me.’

‘I’m assuming you get a lunch break, though?’

‘Twelve thirty on the dot, but I just nip over the road to the baker’s.’

‘Maybe you could check all the same, just to put my mind at rest?’

She gave him a stare and a sniff, then got busy on her keyboard. ‘The name Oram isn’t coming up.’

‘Like I said, he might be using an alias.’

‘Why would he do that? And what’s it got to do with you anyway?’

‘His family haven’t given up hope. They asked me to do some digging. You can imagine how desperate they are.’

‘I suppose I can,’ she eventually admitted, half turning her head towards a closed door at the back of the room. ‘If I do need to step out for any reason – say a dental appointment – I either lock up or Mr Mackenzie keeps an eye on things.’

‘He’s the manager?’

‘He owns the firm, yes. Well, it’s a family business – something QC prides itself on.’

‘Do you think you could ask him?’

‘He’s in a meeting right this second. I’m not sure how long it’ll last. If you leave me a contact number …’

She was interrupted by the closed door suddenly opening. It stayed open as a woman strode out. She was a decade younger than the receptionist, her high heels clacking on the parquet floor. Knee-length red leather skirt and a waist-length jacket of the same vibrant hue. Rebus was enveloped in perfume as she passed. Their eyes met for the briefest of moments. Hers were a striking blue. Plenty of make-up and all topped by thick black hair. He was reminded of Elizabeth Taylor in what he would have called her prime. The bell attached to the door quivered as she made her exit. Without waiting to be asked, Rebus entered the office, cutting off the receptionist’s objection by closing the door once he was inside.