Sura marvelled at the American’s incredible sense of entitlement. It was so ingrained that she had absolutely no concept of the danger she was in.

‘Lieutenant Kaboro has already signed.’ Sura pointed helpfully to the fake signature at bottom of the document. ‘Are you really going to be so ungrateful that you will not pay us this simple courtesy?’

Mia read the document with a studied air of disdain.

‘Indemnity from injury and accidental death?’ She gave Sura a small smile. ‘Very well. If it makes you feel better.’

Crouching down beside her bag, Mia unzipped a side pocket and took out her passport. Watching her copy out the number, paperwork resting on those long, brown athletic legs, Sura couldn’t help but envy the woman her freedom, even if it was taken for granted. The contrast with her own circumscribed life was acute. Another reminder of why her plan must succeed.

‘It’s very brave of you to go and work in such a remote place, Doctor Carter. Have you no husband or boyfriend to worry about you?’

Mia handed her the document with a tight smile.

‘Will that be all?’

Sura nodded. ‘I’m sorry we got off to a bad start. Perhaps I’ll see you at dinner? I would love to learn more about the good work you are doing in my country.’

‘Sure you would.’

Back in the main cabin, Goki sat on the floor and relayed Mia Carter’s name, passport number and description to TNI Headquarters over satellite phone.

‘Top priority. And get me the general. Shangri-La out.’

Sura sat on the bed, massaging her calves with coconut oil.

‘You don’t really think she’s an agent, do you?’

‘No, but what are the odds of her getting on this stinking boat?’ Goki paused to regard her legs. ‘Smart move with the waiver, by the way. Can I ask why a girl of your class hangs around with such a fucking moron, though?’

Sura wondered if Jaap could hear them outside. Or what her father would think of Goki’s increasing familiarity.

‘A man who can’t control himself is not a real man.’

Maybe so, thought Sura, staring into his bloodshot eyes. But Jaap is my weapon and when he takes your life, you will know it.

Goki’s phone rang, and by the way he sat upright she knew it was her father. Military men only ever respected their own kind. It was their weakness. Listening intently, the commando nodded.

‘Yes, sir.’ Extinguishing his clove cigarette in her water glass, he stood up. ‘Sir Julius will call Kaboro.’

‘And the American?’

‘Her ID checks out.’ Goki smiled grimly. ‘If Doctor Carter thought she was clever forcing her way onto this tub, she will soon regret it. Once we get to the border, I’m going to enjoy holding her pretty blonde head underwater.’