Passing my empty glass from hand to hand, I thought about Gem’s warning. I felt like I’d be risking everything I’d built up with Max by telling him about my past, but she was right. He deserved to know what I’d been through. He’d asked a couple of times about the scar on my arm, and all I’d told him was that I’d cut it on some broken glass. I think he’d known by my face that I didn’t want to tell him any more than that, but he was probably still curious. And now that Mike had apologised and more or less admitted he was at fault, hopefully Max wouldn’t be as angry about it. But had Mike really taken responsibility for the way he treated me? A little voice in the back of my mind was still questioning the motive behind the apology, but I silenced it.

Okay, I’ll tell him. I promise, I added, looking at the sceptical expression on her face. But how on earth do I bring it into conversation?

Just sit him down, and say to him, I saw my ex-boyfriend today. He’s an absolute piece of shit and I need to tell you exactly why.

I laughed wryly. Yeah, that just about covers it.

Seriously though, are you okay with having to spend time with Mike?

I nodded. He wants to show me he’s changed. I don’t really believe it, but I think I should give him the benefit of the doubt.

People don’t change, Paige. They want you to think they do, but deep down they don’t. If Mike’s still trying to manipulate you, I worry what he’d do to you if he got you alone.

I brushed off her concerns. He wouldn’t be that stupid. Even though I didn’t press charges back then, I wouldn’t hesitate if he did something to me now.

Does DS Singh think it’s appropriate that you’re around him?

What has Singh got to do with it?

She laughed. Come on Paige, you know he likes you. Anna told me all about it.

I felt a blush slowly rising up my face. I think she’s wildly inflated it. He’s a nice bloke, and we get on well in a professional capacity, but that’s it.

Fine, fine. Gem held up her hands in defeat. Still, I think you should tell him about your past with Mike, cover your back in a professional sense if nothing else.

You’ve got a point, I replied. He knows the basics, but nothing about what really went on. Though I think he’s guessed it wasn’t exactly a positive experience.

Just think about it, Paige. And tell Max, too.

I nodded. You’re right. I will.