‘I want a divorce but he won’t agree to my terms. I need something that will change his mind. I made the mistake of letting him hold all the purse strings, and out of spite he won’t co-operate. I can’t leave unless I’ve got some money.’

Camilla shook her head. ‘Rule number one – never rely on a man for anything. Didn’t your mother teach you that? I’ve drummed that into my daughter since she was just a kid. Some people may disapprove of my chosen profession and say I’m letting men take advantage of me, but I’ll tell you now, that is not the case. I earn enough money to support myself and my daughter. And as for taking advantage of me, it’s the other way around. I’m using them to support my lifestyle, which isn’t cheap.’

‘No, I can see that,’ said Elizabeth. It was obvious from the moment she had first seen the woman that she liked to buy and wear the top brands, but it was an understated sophistication which actually made her even more sophisticated. ‘I actually admire you for that.’ Elizabeth didn’t really admire her, but it was the right thing to say to get Camilla on her side. When Elizabeth had called the agency and explained what she wanted she had been told her it was down to the woman in question whether she wanted to take the job or not, and Elizabeth was now on the charm offensive. She smiled at Camilla. ‘I wish I’d had the same foresight as you. I feel like I’ve lost myself since I’ve been married. I’ve gradually disappeared, and now I’ve finally found the courage to leave, he still wants to control me, and the only way he can do that is by cutting off my finances.’ She took a tissue from her bag and dabbed at her eyes, hoping to garner some sympathy.

Camilla rested her hand on Elizabeth’s arm. ‘Don’t feel guilty. It’s not your fault. It took me a bad relationship before I truly worked it out. We’ll get this bastard of a husband and you can walk away from your shitty marriage. Trust me. I know what I’m doing.’

‘Oh, you’re so kind. I’m sorry about getting upset. I don’t usually,’ said Elizabeth. She smiled at Camilla. ‘I really appreciate you agreeing to this. Your employer tells me you’ve actually done this before.’

‘Admittedly, it’s not my usual task, but in answer to your question, yes, I have done this before. I’m not as innocent as I look.’