‘I thought they might enhance my employment prospects when I’m released,’ Adele replied. The governor didn’t respond straight away. Instead she carried on staring dispassionately until Adele added, ‘I thought it might make good use of my time in here as well, Governor.’

‘Really?’ asked the governor, assessing Adele for a few seconds before turning her attention to the file in front of her and flicking through its pages. After what seemed like an age the governor spoke again. ‘Yes, I see from your file that you’ve done quite a bit of study. Did you do this during your time at Scott and Palmer solicitors?’

‘Yes,’ said Adele.

‘Was that on day release or did you study in your own time?’

‘In my own time,’ Adele replied, her voice sounding small and shaky compared to the assertiveness of the governor.

‘Well, in that case I suppose you’re to be commended,’ said Governor Jones, and as she stared over her glasses, Adele thought she detected the hint of a smile.

Adele could feel the weight of Prison Officer Fox’s stare and she glanced quickly across at her. Sly’s face was like thunder. She obviously wasn’t impressed that Adele seemed to have found favour with the governor.

After another pause, the governor said, ‘You’ll have to leave it with me. There are procedures to be followed for courses outside of our normal curriculum, and then, of course, there are restrictions when it comes to budget. We’ll have to justify the cost so I’ll take another look at your file and see what we can do.’

‘Thank you,’ said Adele.

‘Not too hasty,’ the governor cut in. ‘I can’t promise anything but we’ll let you know in due course.’

‘Thank you,’ Adele repeated before the governor instructed the two prison officers to lead Adele back to her cell.

*

Caroline was standing outside her cell chatting with Anna and a new prisoner called Cheryl. The prisoners had finished their work for the day and the strong smell of bleach filled Caroline’s nostrils and stung the back of her throat. As she looked up the corridor, Caroline saw a well-built guard leading another new prisoner through the crowds of inmates. The prospect of a new arrival always made their time more interesting and they paused in their conversation as the newcomer drew nearer.

Caroline watched her approach. It was difficult to see her fully amongst the hordes of prisoners, especially since a large group of women were standing between them. But as the new inmate passed the group, Caroline noticed that the women fell silent until the new prisoner was out of hearing range. Then their conversation continued as a low murmur.