Melissa shakes her head. ‘She won’t even be in court. She’ll read it out by a video link then leave straight away. She’s happy with that.’

He frowns, weighing it up, working out the risks and benefits.

‘I’ll be released anyway, they won’t find concrete evidence, because I didn’t do it.’

Melissa stares back silently; let him believe what he wants; it makes no difference.

Paul’s stubbly face leans closer to hers across the prison table. ‘What actual evidence do they have, apart from Sorrel being found in our freezer, and the tiara in my car?’

That’s surely enough in itself, Melissa thinks but doesn’t say. Sorrel might tell the police more given time, but Grace told her the little girl is hardly speaking yet and that she might not remember anyway. The prison warder checks his watch and glances at them; the bell is about to sound.

‘Izzy just wants to help you, Paul,’ she tells him, standing up. ‘I’ll tell her I tried; she’ll be devastated to hear—’

‘Just the statement then, nothing else,’ he interrupts harshly, staring up at her; it’s strange how threatening he still sounds, even in prison.

She walks away after that; she’s fulfilled her promise to Izzy, the only thing that matters. She won’t see him again till the trial, but at least Izzy’s mind will be put at ease.

That evening, she phones the refuge and Karen answers; she’s excited, the news is good. The Home Office has agreed to let Lina stay in England. Lina’s home in Syria is a conflict zone, she has no relatives there, both reasons for her to be allowed to remain in the UK.

‘That’s such great news.’ Melissa smiles for the first time that day.

‘I’ll find her for you; she’s resting.’

A few minutes later Lina’s voice murmurs a shy hello.

‘How are you?’ Lina is twenty weeks pregnant but she rarely refers to the fact. Melly is cautious.

‘Fine.’

‘Karen told me you are allowed to stay; it’s wonderful news, Lina.’

‘Yes, thank you. I am happy.’

‘When we have a home, there will be a room specially for you, two rooms.’ Paul’s child, but also Izzy’s little half-brother or -sister. Lina’s baby, someone to cherish.

‘Thank you very much.’

‘Sorrel is still in hospital but she’s getting better all the time.’

‘I’m very glad.’

‘Paul’s in prison; I expect you know that. He’s likely to stay there for a long time.’

‘I see.’

‘Whatever happens, you won’t be hurt again.’

Lina doesn’t reply. They talk a little about Salisbury and the cathedral and the next visit Melissa will make when she comes to see how the work in the Wiltshire house is progressing.