Ahmed, he must have got it from him. Ahmed had the addresses of every member of the gym. Surely it was illegal, data protection existed for a reason, but I didn’t want to consider the alternative. That he had followed me home. I considered going to the police. Detective Emmerson seemed to have a renewed vigour for the case, but I didn’t hold out much hope. Ian seemed to be able to move around as he pleased without fear of detection. Perhaps if I was in his shoes, I would be as arrogant. No, it had to be me. The police weren’t going to find him anytime soon. I had to deliver him to them.

As I was getting dressed later, still damp from my shower, a text came through on my phone from Ian.

Wait outside for me

No please or thank you, just a command. Did he have any idea how he comes across? I couldn’t refuse, just had to go with the flow. Inching ever closer to my reward.

Outside, the bitter night air stung my face, gusts of wind blowing my hair every time I changed direction. I didn’t see Ian until he was right in front of me.

‘I thought you were dancing.’ He grabbed me around the waist and pressed his body against mine, swaying to music neither of us could hear. His chest felt solid, ice cold against mine. My jaw clenched at the proximity, every fibre of my being wanted him off me.

‘Trying to get my hair out of my face,’ I said, tucking a handful of it behind my ear unsuccessfully.

Ian moved me backwards to an alcove at the side of the building, out of the wind. ‘Better?’

I nodded but was uncomfortable at being shielded from the road. The alcove was dark and tucked away, hidden in the shadows. Anything could happen, and no one would see. Just like behind the café. I blinked away the memory, legs trembling.

‘When are you free for dinner?’ he asked, still with one hand around my waist.

I bit my lip.

‘The weekend?’ My voice high pitched, giving away my nerves.

‘Okay, I’ll book a table. Saturday?’

‘Sure.’

‘You’re a mystery, Eve. I can’t wait to find out your secrets.’