The use of the diminutive form of his first name was another calculated move on Carol’s part to wrong-foot him. That it had worked was obvious in the narrowing of his eyes. He was trying to get past his initial reaction, to size her up, but he couldn’t escape the power of memory. ‘Then you’ve wasted your time, Ms Jackson,’ he said.

She shook her head. ‘I don’t think so. Look, it’s obvious that you must be missing Colin badly. I’ve come to take up the slack.’

He shrugged. ‘You’re not making sense.’ The five-minute bell rang, signalling the imminent end of the interval. ‘Now, if you’ll excuse me, I think you should be getting back to your seat.’

‘The view from here is much better, you know. I think I’d rather stay.’ Carol dropped her bag on the floor and crossed her legs, tilting her head and smiling at him. She could see the war of instinct and interest flickering in his uncertain eyes.

‘I don’t think so,’ he said.

Carol gave an exasperated sigh. ‘Look, Tadzio, stop pretending. You need me.’

He looked shocked. His mouth opened, but no words emerged. ‘Colin was doing a good job for you,’ she continued. ‘But Colin’s history. You need someone to take your illegals off your hands once they get to the UK. I can do that. Can we stop pussyfooting around and talk straight? Naturally you’re nervous about discussing this with a total stranger, but, right now, I suspect I’m the only show in town when it comes to getting you off a very awkward hook. What do I need to do to prove to you that I’m trustworthy?’

‘I still don’t know what you’re talking about.’ There was a stubborn set to his jaw now. ‘Illegals? What do you mean? We don’t sell blue movies in my stores. We certainly don’t import them into the UK.’