‘I heard about Nan’s death,’ said Dulcie. ‘I still feel bad about the way she was treated. Andrea Becker was a force of nature, persuasive and convincing. Looking back on it, she influenced a lot of people into changing their opinion of Nan. She made Nan out to be interfering and unprofessional, whereas it was Andrea herself who was the interfering one, and her conduct was way out of line.’ Dulcie stared down at her untouched cup of tea. ‘Everyone held Nan responsible for Claire and her boy leaving the refuge so precipitously. I only realised much later that she had nothing to do with it. In fact, she was trying to protect them.’ She sighed. ‘I went to see Nan, but by then it was far too late. Claire had disappeared, along with her boy.’

Harriet produced an A4 plastic wallet and handed it to Marie. ‘This is everything I have from our records of that year. Everyone who comes to us has to sign a licence agreement, which is basically the terms under which you can stay, including the rent to be charged and all our rules of safety. Claire registered as Claire Woodhall, and her son’s name was Leon. She only gave us a mobile number, no other contacts at all, but that’s not unusual. These women are escaping from abusive relationships and often travel long distances in order to keep their whereabouts a secret.’

Leon? Was it even the right child?

‘Claire required no financial advice or assistance and drew no benefits. We never enquire into the personal affairs of our residents,’ added Harriet. ‘In fact, if they choose, they only have to give a first name. Claire wasn’t referred by yourselves or the Samaritans or any other aid organisation. As long as we have the space, any woman who is in need can come into the refuge via Women’s Aid. We ask no questions, just offer support, advice and a safe place to stay.’

Which was brilliant, of course, but of little help to Marie. ‘You say this Claire just disappeared, Dulcie? Did you have any idea where she went? We were told that she might have gone to stay with Andrea Becker.’

Dulcie shook her head. ‘She didn’t go there, I do know that. I was concerned at her sudden departure, and I called round to Andrea’s place. This was before I became aware that Andrea was not what I’d believed her to be. She was out, but her husband was there, and he said he’d seen the woman and the child just the once, when Andrea brought them back for tea.’

‘And Claire never mentioned anything about moving on, or even going back home?’ Marie said. ‘I know some women do go back, even after they’ve made the break.’