The Langani truck had disappeared. Sarah felt shy and gauche, and lonely for Lars. She wondered what she could say to this capable, knowledgeable woman on the journey north. In the dining room several people greeted Allie and she introduced her new researcher. Sarah started to relax a little. She was asking about the camp and the work when their conversation was interrupted by a shout. Bearing down on them from the direction of the bar was a tall, thin man in his late thirties. His skin was sallow and although it was only shortly after midday he had a five o’clock shadow around his mouth and chin. He was smoking a cigar, and he carried a drink in one hand, while the other was raised in an exaggerated salute.

‘Allie! What are you doing away from your elephants and your fine husband?’

His voice was loud, and heavily accented. He arrived at the table, banged his glass down, and gave Allie a bone-crunching hug from which she extricated herself, laughing.

‘Viktor. I might ask why you’re propping up the bar in this flyblown hole, when you should be out doing an honest day’s work.’

Viktor. This must be Piet’s architect. And Hannah’s lover. The man was every bit as flamboyant as their descriptions. He was staring at Sarah through a haze of smoke, with eyes that were almost black. She thought that he would be a fantastic subject for a photographic portrait. He gestured towards her.

‘And who is this splendid creature, Allie? Introduce me now, if you please.’

‘This is Sarah Mackay. Our new researcher. A Celt like me, but Irish. She’s joining us today – we’re heading back to the camp. Sarah, this is—’

‘You’re Viktor Szustak.’ Sarah put out her hand. ‘Langani Lodge. I’ve just come from there, and I have to tell you that it’s the most beautiful place I’ve ever seen. I’m delighted to meet you.’

‘Well, well,’ he said. ‘An admirer. And such a pretty one! It is a good day for me.’

He bent to kiss her hand. She was conscious of his lips, lingering, warm on her knuckles, and she felt the magnetic sexual energy that emanated from him. She could see why Piet was apprehensive about his sister’s love affair with the man. There was a feral sense about him. He straightened, and looked at her.

‘And how do you know Langani and my lodge?’

‘The van der Beers are old friends,’ she answered. ‘Hannah and I were at school together. I’ve spent a lot of time at the farm over the years.’