‘Probably later this evening. I started a new job today at Charing Cross Police Station.’

‘That’s a coincidence. My son works there.’

Archer closes her eyes and feels a lump in her throat. ‘Grandad, Dad is no longer with us.’

She hears a heavy sigh.

‘Oh God, Grace, I forget so much these days. I’m sorry.’

‘It’s OK, Grandad.’

‘I’ve not been right since your grandma . . . I’m sorry, Grace.’

‘Don’t be.’

‘That’s life, Grace . . . that’s life.’

‘Listen, Grandad, I have to go . . .’

‘By the way. I met the new neighbour again today. He’s a smashing lad.’

Archer laughs. ‘That’s good. A lad? How old is he?’

‘Oh, I don’t know. In his thirties, perhaps. Anyway, he’s moved into Eileen’s at number forty-three. You know Eileen passed away?’

‘Yes, last year, wasn’t it?’

‘Was it that long? Anyway, I can’t remember the lad’s name. Jim or Jimmy, I think. Very nice chap.’ He pauses for a moment. ‘I don’t like his missus much. She’s a bit snooty.’

‘I’d better go, Grandad. See you tonight, all being well.’

‘I’m looking forward to seeing you. I’ve made up your old room.’

She smiles. ‘Thank you. It’s been a hectic day. I’ll be there as soon as I can.’

‘Understood. Is . . . erm . . . what’s his name . . . coming too?’

‘Dom won’t be there. Just me and you.’

‘That’s nice. See you later, Grace.’

‘Bye, Grandad.’

Archer places her phone on the table top and after a moment lifts her hand from the device. Her grandad has had two small strokes in the past year that have left his memory functioning at seventy per cent efficiency, according to his doctor, who also diagnosed the early onset of dementia. The diagnosis floored Archer. He is her only family. She has begun to notice a sharp decline in his moods and awareness in recent months, which causes her no end of anxiety. He is becoming increasingly confused by everyday stuff, dates and other numbers, especially. He has already forgotten his PIN twice, forcing Archer to write it down for him to carry around in his wallet. Hardly secure, but what choice do they have? Archer lives with her boyfriend, Dominic, in his flat in Little Venice, but has decided to move in with Grandad part time to help look after him. Dominic is furious she made that decision without discussing it first. They argued and Dom laid into her about being consumed by her career and now she was bloody well moving out. That was a low point, however, she knows it’s the right decision for Grandad. She still feels guilty and has managed to smooth things over with Dom, but it’s been a revealing moment in their two-year relationship.