Sara gave a brisk shake of her head. ‘Sorry, I don’t think I’ve got time.’ She indicated the piles of paperwork on her desk. ‘I’ve got all the project application forms to go through. Not to mention getting the monthly accounts ready for Julia. She’s coming in with Fiona tonight. They’re having a working supper, so I’ve got to organise food for them as well.’ Her voice sounded as weary as she felt.

‘I do believe I’m your boss,’ he said firmly. ‘And as I’m responsible for your health and welfare at work, I’m insisting you take a lunch break. Just an hour, that’s all, then you’ll feel energised and refreshed and you’ll work twice as fast this afternoon.’ He stood up, checked his watch. ‘Come on. We’re going. We’ll get served quicker if we’re there early.’

Sara looked at her desk – the mass of papers strewn across the surface – and a flare of panic burned through her chest. Her stomach gurgled. I can’t, though, can I?

James turned at the door and beckoned to her, eyebrows raised when she didn’t move.

She gave a tentative smile. Why not? she thought. I’m supposed to get a lunch hour and never take it. Maybe I will feel better afterwards. It was starting to sound like a good idea, and anyway, James wasn’t going to take no for an answer.

She followed him outside, where his racing-green Audi TT was parked, gleaming in the sunshine. It was another warm May day, and the cherry trees that surrounded the car park were in full bloom, their pink petals coating the ground around them like confetti. He opened the door for her and waited for her to get settled in the seat before he closed it and went round to the driver’s side.

An unexpected thrill of excitement fizzled through her. She’d never been in such a posh car before. Leather seats. No empty crisp packets or sweet wrappers or drinks cartons stuffed in the pockets of the doors or littering the floor. The whole interior was immaculate and smelt clean and fresh, a hint of sandalwood in the air. She buckled herself in, even the silky feel of the seat belt shouting quality. The engine thrummed to life, settling to a soft purr. He turned to her and grinned, his delight infectious, and she felt like she was doing something she shouldn’t. Being a little bit bad.

He’s my boss, she told herself. He insisted.

It was a rock-solid justification, and she sat back, telling herself she had no choice in the matter. He’ll be able to insist until the debt’s repaid, a little voice in her head reminded her. She shifted in her seat, not sure she was entirely comfortable with that thought.