When Glynn had finished he gazed down at Julian and let him have one last hard kick before warning him, ‘In future, have more fuckin’ respect for those in charge. And don’t even think of reporting me to the cops if you know what’s good for you,’ he finally hissed before locking the door.

Julian remained silent as he lay battered and weeping on the street outside. But Glynn wasn’t bothered. As far as he was concerned, that pathetic excuse for a man had disrespected him and he got what he deserved. Glynn was a ruthless operator and he did whatever needed to be done without any remorse. And if he had to do the same again, or even worse, he wouldn’t hesitate.

Chapter 25

Adele had been watching Shazza for days. Now, as she saw her leave Denise and Louise, then walk across the recreation area, she tailed her. It had been difficult for Adele to break away from Anna but she’d managed it. Adele didn’t want anybody else involved in what she was about to do. She needed to do this alone.

As she watched Shazza confidently strut along the prison corridors, greeting other prisoners with an effusive high five and habitual insults, Adele could feel the rage building within her. Who did Shazza think she was, tormenting and goading the other prisoners as though it was her right?

Eventually Shazza reached her cell and went inside. Adele sped up until she was outside Shazza’s cell. She peeked through the small window in the door. Yes! Shazza was alone.

Without hesitation, Adele turned the handle and pushed the door open. She dashed inside, noting Shazza’s momentary look of shock, which she soon replaced with a smug grin. It was obvious bravado but Adele didn’t give her chance to gloat. She launched herself at Shazza, using the rapid kickboxing combination she had practised so well.

Shazza reeled from the stinging blows but then came back at her. She got in close, making it difficult for Adele to aim punches and kicks. Shazza latched onto Adele’s hair with both hands, pulling her head forward.

But Adele didn’t let Shazza drag her head down. Instead she brought her arms up through the centre and prised them in between Shazza’s arms. Then she thrust them sideways in a speedy defensive move.

Shazza’s arms flew outwards, forcing her to let go of Adele’s hair. Before Shazza could recover, Adele stepped back and started aiming kicks at her. A powerful kick to Shazza’s legs made them collapse beneath her. She crashed to the ground.

Without waiting for Shazza to get up, Adele rushed towards her. She quickly crouched down on one knee next to Shazza who remained dazed on the floor. Adele’s other foot stayed firmly on the ground. But her knee was bent so she could use her thigh for leverage.