‘What would you have me do? Sit and stare at the four walls? A number of people are out doing for me. Until we get feedback, we can’t take the next step. That’s why I need to go out, and running helps me think.’

I sighed. ‘I’m sorry, Tobey. I’m worried and on edge, but that doesn’t mean I should take it out on you.’

‘If you can get here soon, you could come for a run with me,’ Tobey suggested. ‘I’d like that.’

‘Pfft! Me? Run? Why on earth would I do that?’ I asked, bemused.

‘For the same reason I do – to stay fit and to clear your head.’

‘To get all sweaty and smelly? Tobey, I will run if – and only if – something with sharp teeth or someone with an axe is chasing me and not until then.’

Tobey chuckled. ‘All right. Message received.’

‘Besides, I can think of other ways to stay fit,’ I said, casting my mind back to my regular tennis matches with friends from chambers. Playing a game to compete and challenge yourself had a point and a purpose. Running and circuit training, nah!

‘I can think of other ways too,’ said Tobey, the silky tone of his voice making my face flame.

‘I’m not touching that one,’ I told him.

‘Spoilsport!’

‘Tobey, I’m on my way to chambers,’ I said firmly. ‘Promise you’ll phone me as soon as you have some news?’

‘Of course,’ he said. ‘You’ll be the first to hear. D’you want to know one of the many things I love about you, Callie?’

‘Go on then,’ I said, ignoring the hyperbole.

‘You’re one of the few people in my life who speaks to me like a normal human being without taking a detour to kiss my arse first. It’s refreshing.’

‘You’re an idiot!’ I disconnected the call, smiling faintly.

In spite of everything that was going on, and everything that had just run through my mind about Tobias Durbridge, he could still make me smile. I glanced down at my watch. Lingering on this park bench was no longer an option. In less than an hour, I had an early meeting with my head of chambers, Sol Camden, and I was a hair’s breadth away from being unceremoniously bounced out of my job. Yesterday, in court, Sol had positively radiated disapproval. My rising golden star was now lead and falling fast.