She knew she shouldn’t. Her father trusted her – that’s why he’d felt able to devote himself to work and achieve his promotions. She’d be breaching that trust. But, after all, this man was a friend of her cousin… almost family, well-behaved and educated. She looked around. No one was watching. She hesitated – he watched and waited, making no move himself to return to his driver’s seat. He was extraordinarily attractive. What were a few minutes in a lifetime? What harm was there in it?

‘OK. Just a short one.’

He whisked round the front of the car and opened the passenger door. She jumped in and slammed it shut, ducking her face. As he walked round the back of the car, she craned her neck to see his midriff flashing across the rear window. He slid into his seat, started up and revved the engine.

‘I shouldn’t really,’ she said.

He snatched a quick look at her. ‘Please, it is your decision. You can get out if you prefer.’

She didn’t answer; he’d said it so considerately that it felt OK. He accelerated away. Guilt competed with an overwhelming sense of triumph. Butterflies danced in the pit of her stomach.

‘We could go to Wandsworth Common. White yummy-mummy land. None of our people will be there.’

She laughed. ‘How did you meet Salman?’

‘At Queen Victoria’s. I am just finishing my Masters there. He is a fine chap. I hope he and his bride will be happy even though it is an arranged marriage.’

At the mention of weddings, she fell silent, feeling that little tap on the shoulder of what her father would think.

‘Salman’s area is mechanical engineering, mine is aerospace,’ Kareem continued.

‘Sounds interesting.’

‘Yes, I am also taking my pilot’s licence.’

‘Isn’t that expensive?’

They were stopped at lights; he swivelled towards her. ‘Fortunately the family firm pays. You may think this is unfair privilege. I would agree with you.’

Rather than pursue the point, as he turned back to the road she chose to make a more detailed inspection of his profile. A silence fell – she wanted to fill it. No, what she wanted was just to look at him, to touch his arm, to feel his skin. She knew that couldn’t be and tried to discard the thought. Had he noticed?

‘What are your future educational plans?’ It seemed he hadn’t.

‘Starting my law degree in the autumn. Queen Vic’s too.’

‘Did you ever wish to go to uni outside London?’

‘Sometimes.’ She hesitated. ‘I think my dad still needs me.’

‘What about your mother?’

‘She passed away when I was nine.’

‘I am sorry, Sara. I was not aware of this.’ He allowed her a moment – no pressing. A sensitive man.