The police had gone from Allerdale House by the time Graeme arrived for his meeting with Sebastian Montague-Roland, but blue and white tape remained across various gateways and windows. He parked in the lane and buzzed the intercom. He’d toyed with not coming, because it was blindingly obvious that the guy was after a liaison. There were thousands of gay men out there who you’d swear blind were straight, and it was perfectly clear that Mr Montague-Roland was hoping Graeme was one of them.

He hoped things didn’t become tricky. He’d been propositioned before: most of his girlfriends had loved cruising gay bars and nightclubs when they were at university together – they had the best ambience apparently. He hoped he hadn’t led Montague-Roland on. He had a moment of conflict, but reassured himself that he had only shown interest in a job.

The house was a fine example of Lakeland materials: wood, slate and stone. It was the first time he’d been here and he couldn’t wait to have a nosy around inside. He drove through the gate and stopped outside a huge front door just as Montague-Roland came out with an outstretched hand. Graeme shook it. ‘Mr Montague-Roland,’ he said.

‘Oh please, it’s Sebastian. Come in, I’ve put some pasties in the Aga and I’ve got a rather marvellous bottle of Chablis on the go.’ He said pasty as if it had an ‘r’ in it. Southerners stood out like sore thumbs up here.

‘I’m driving,’ Graeme said.

‘Pity. I’ll have to drink it all myself.’

Sebastian closed the huge oak door behind them. The furnishings, lighting and decor were all arresting. Graeme appreciated good design and stared around at the sumptuous interior.

‘Impressive, isn’t it?’ Sebastian said.

Graeme nodded. ‘Perfect.’

‘Well, I wouldn’t go that far. I’ve got my own ideas and I think Grandfather will turn in his grave when I fix the place up my way.’

Graeme was examining the artwork on the walls. Every painting was an original. ‘Did you ever consider opening as a museum?’ he asked. ‘Tourists love walking round these old stately homes, and pay a fortune for it.’

‘Imagine how much they’ll pay to stay here,’ Sebastian grinned.

‘So, you said you’ve already tried some building companies? I did see some surveyors up here.’ Graeme was aware that his information could be seen as prying. ‘I sail past the beach a lot.’

‘I’ve tried several people: all unreliable. That’s where you come in; you’re local, you know the area, and you’re already a stone’s throw away.’

Graeme rubbed his chin. ‘Absolutely. I’d be happy to. When do I start?’

‘Let me share my ideas first, and you can start giving me some figures.’