They had shared breakfast, she’d given him a birthday gift and then she’d waved him off before tidying up and getting ready for work. She’d been irritated because Stuart had forgotten to wish her luck with a big presentation she had that day. The police arrived just after she’d showered, so half an hour or so later. When she’d seen them step out of the car and put their hats on, she’d known it was bad news. She’d been convinced Stuart was dead, so their revelation had been quite a relief.

‘But you haven’t heard anything from him since?’ said Jameson.

Libby glanced at Bloom, then shook her head. ‘I left messages, loads of them, but he’s just disappeared. No one’s heard a thing.’

‘And is that unusual?’ Jameson asked.

‘Very.’

Bloom cleared her throat. ‘I hope you don’t mind my asking, Libby, but was everything OK between the two of you?’

‘Fine.’

‘And was Stuart OK? Had you noticed anything different or unusual about his behaviour?’

‘He wouldn’t leave me, if that’s what you’re asking. I told the police and I can tell you too. He was fine.’

‘But was there anything unusual about his behaviour in the last few weeks?’ Jameson repeated.

Libby sighed and shook her head. ‘No. Nothing unusual. Nothing at all.’

Jameson nodded and then continued, ‘Had he been worried about anything in particular or fallen out with anyone?’

‘No.’

‘Has he ever gone off without telling you before?’

Libby shook her head.

‘And how long have you been together?’

‘Nearly two years. It was just after I started as Finance Director at the airport. It was a pretty lonely time, if I’m honest. People didn’t like the fact I’d been promoted so young. Stuart worked in the cafe and he was the only person who’d look me in the eye and smile. He was charming. Then he was asked to leave and I was devastated.’ Libby glanced at Bloom. ‘But three days later I came out of work and found him waiting by my car with flowers. We’ve been together ever since.’

‘I like his style,’ said Jameson with a kind smile. ‘How would you describe Stuart, Libby? What sort of person is he?’

‘He’s … perfect. I mean, for me. I don’t mean he’s, like, the perfect man. Certainly not.’ She smiled. It was the first heartfelt smile they’d seen and it turned her from bland to really rather pretty. ‘I’m a bit obsessive and he’s the total opposite. Which works. He makes me laugh. He shows me I’m taking life too seriously. He does these menial jobs because he hasn’t worked out what he wants to do yet, but he could be anything. He’s bright and super-confident.’

‘You said Stuart was asked to leave the cafe at the airport?’ said Bloom.