Oh, not to worry. They were probably due in a bit later and I would meet them then.

Athena was expected in at any moment, so there was a charged hush in the air.

I switched on my PC, having been informed by Orion that it was all set up for my use. As it whirred into life, I peered into my in-tray. That seemed to consist of a pile of fancy-looking press releases, promoting everything from smudge-proof mascara to snail slime hand cream.

My chest deflated.

Orion offered me a supportive smile from her corner of the open-plan office and I struggled to return it.

From across the floor, I noticed whispers being exchanged out of the sides of mouths and glances at me over the tops of PC screens.

But the indiscreet asides were interrupted. There was a sudden frisson as the main office doors glided open and Athena swept in, a couple of dayglo folders under one arm. “Team meeting,” she barked, looking at none of us. “My office.”

I watched my new colleagues delivering discreet eye rolls. I gathered up my notebook and pen and followed them.

Athena’s office was like the helm of some futuristic space craft. It was a white-carpeted affair, but with a triangular meeting table and flowing dark blinds at both windows. Even the two potted plants were trapped in angular pots by the door.

I took up the seat next to Orion and shot her an apprehensive glance. I couldn’t help but wonder if the other new start – the person who had been appointed to the investigative journalist position – was arriving today too. And the fate of the previous beauty writer nudged the corners of my mind…

Athena was now stationed at the helm. She craned forward in her highbacked chair and opened one of the files. “I take it, Leonie, that you’ve met everyone already?”

“Yes, thank you, Athena. Although come to think of it, I haven’t met—”

I was cut short by Athena’s brisk efficiency. “Ursula. How is the feature going on glass thongs?”

I found myself wincing. Dear God! Seriously? Was that a thing?

Then it was Dyson’s turn. “Where are you at with the interview we were hoping to secure with James McAvoy?”

The speed of the individual conversations was unnerving, like rapid gun fire. Athena appeared either satisfied or would draw in her lips and grind out further instructions. She swivelled her gamine cut to Orion. “Our new investigative reporter starts today. Make sure she has everything she needs.”

“Of course, Athena.”