‘Just our bad luck,’ I whispered.

A bell sounded as the lift arrived at its designated floor. Both Byron and I flinched then I turned round to catch his eye and laughed nervously. He stared at me for a moment before smiling. ‘Here we are,’ he said. ‘Home sweet home. At least for the next three nights anyway.’

He took my hand and led me into the penthouse and through a heavy self-locking door which I took careful note of. Once inside I made a point of looking around casually. Damn. This was pretty swish. I walked over to the large window and gazed out. ‘You’re a lucky guy,’ I commented, ‘getting to experience all this.’

‘Believe me, I know.’

‘And you’re only here for three nights?’

He nodded. ‘I have some business to attend to.’

I got the impression from his tone that he didn’t want to talk about it. That suited me. I only wanted to know where the Lia Saifire was being kept. I offered a brilliant smile. ‘I’ve never been in a penthouse before. Can you give me the grand tour?’

His mouth quirked up. ‘It would be my pleasure.’

I followed him around. The place was impressive. And ostentatious. I exclaimed over the elaborate chandeliers and cooed over the soft furnishings. I wasn’t expecting to see the gem on display, of course, but there was bound to be a safe somewhere. I strolled over to a large painting of two hunting dogs gazing up at a bird of prey.

‘Beautiful artwork,’ I said as I tried to work out whether it was a front for a wall safe.

‘It’s not really to my taste,’ he said. ‘Come on. I’ll show you the bedrooms.’

I trailed after him, hoping it was clear that this was a tour and nothing else.  Fortunately, after the little show of power in the lift, he was now on his best behaviour. He pointed out the vast bed and the modern painting hanging above it, as well as the ensuite. His tone remained neutral. Thank goodness.

We were returning to the main living room area when I saw it. One of the vast wardrobe doors was open less than an inch and, nestled there inside like a gift from the gods, was a safe. My stomach flipped. Bingo. I could feel my skin prickling in anticipation. Now I was getting somewhere.

‘Do you mind if I use your bathroom?’ I asked.

Byron grinned at me. ‘Be my guest. You can use the ensuite or there’s another one to your left, next to the second bedroom.’