Jason didn’t respond to that, and Dani decided to drop it. The truth was, for once she did feel better having him there. At least this time he wasn’t criticising her drinking, and it was surely better to have company for a change than talking to herself.

The day passed by in a blur, and even after darkness had arrived Dani and Jason remained sitting and chatting. With the vodka bottle nearly empty and blood alcohol levels soaring, both Dani and Jason had warmed up, the talk between them more natural and open once they’d decided to leave policing problems aside, and with no mention of Dani’s other problems.

‘Damn, look at the time,’ Jason said, glancing at his watch. ‘I really should be going.’

‘Are you sure? You can stay longer.’

‘My last train was ten minutes ago.’

‘There’s a taxi rank over the other side of the canal, towards Brindley Place,’ Dani said. ‘Or if you can’t make it that far, you can have the spare bed.’

She was glad she’d managed to say the word ‘spare’, rather than ‘your’, even if he was the only person to have ever slept there.

Jason thought for a few moments. ‘No, I think I’ve probably had plenty.’

‘Fair enough. Probably about time for bed then.’

Dani caught the awkward look Jason gave her and she smiled.

‘I didn’t mean the same bed,’ she said. ‘The spare room is all yours, though, if you want.’

‘No, thanks, best to just get a taxi and get home. Busy day tomorrow.’

Unlike Dani, who now had nothing to do. They didn’t say anything more and both wobbled to their feet then made their way to the front door. Jason slipped on his shoes.

‘I know I’m not a shrink,’ he said, ‘but I am a good listener. If you ever want to talk…’

‘I know, Jason.’

‘I know it’s not the best timing, but I’m glad we did this.’

Dani sighed. This was what she’d wanted for a long time. Just to be able to start over, with no talk of their past life together. Why had it taken such a shitty turn of events at work for it to happen?

‘I’m glad we did it too,’ Dani said. ‘You’re always there for me when I need you.’

‘I’d do anything for you, Dani. You know that.’

Jason looked at her with a twinkle in his eye. She was alert enough to know she was pissed, that the alcohol was clouding her better judgment, yet she didn’t break the eye contact.