Nick screamed with laughter. ‘Essex born and bred, dear, that’s me. Typical Essex Man if people only knew it. The things I could tell you about that county would make your hair curl up and fall out! Mind you, I was a Londoner for a long time. Ever heard of the London Boys? Bowie wrote a song about us once. I live up here now, doing me bit, like we all do. What’s your name, dear? I hope it’s as glamorous as you are.’

Donna looked into his perfectly made-up face and said: ‘It’s Donna, Donna Brunos.’

She saw Nick’s eyes widen. Then he looked at Alan quickly before saying sotto voce. ‘We are a lucky girl, aren’t we?’

Donna was saved from answering by Albie coming back with the round of drinks.

‘Oh Albie, you are a darling. Albie, meet Donna Brunos. Georgio was hiding her from us all for years. Pretty as a picture, isn’t she? Love the hair. Is it natural?’

Donna found his high breathless way of talking amusing, especially as he jumped from one subject to another so hastily. She realised that most of his questions weren’t to be answered but were delivered as compliments.

‘So, Alan. What’s to do, dearie?’

Alan grinned and knocked back his scotch. ‘Stop fucking camping it up. You know I hate it.’

Nick’s face was serious as he answered in a deep voice, ‘That’s why I do it, love. Got to give the punters a show, eh?’

Alan sighed. ‘I’ve got a bit of business for you and Albie. I need a boat, a straight house - and I mean straight - and some supplies.’

Nick sipped his rum and Coke and licked his lips before answering.

‘What kind of boat do you want, and where do you want it docked? If you’re travelling over the water, I’ll get you a nice fishing vessel. If you need a speedboat, I’ve got a choice of three. You tell me what you want to do and I’ll tell you if I can do it, how much it’ll rush you and whether or not I think the risk is worth it. I don’t do drug running any more. My Petey got a life for it and I don’t need the hassle, OK? Now it’s your turn, Alan, and keep it short and sweet.’

Donna was amazed at the turnaround in Nick Carvello. Now he was like any other businessman, except instead of a suit he wore a bright green Lycra bodystocking, and green eyeshadow to match. The Stylistics came on singing ‘Betcha, By Golly, Wow’ and Nick listened to Alan while swaying in time to the music.

He looked at Donna and winked in a friendly fashion.