I realise I’m not wearing a coat, but although I’m shivering, I can barely feel the cold. ‘I’m fine. This is just a quick stop – heater’s on full blast in the car.’

‘I’m wearing about five layers and I’m still freezing.’

She obviously wants to chat, but I don’t have the time or energy. ‘Have a good Christmas,’ I say, dumping the refuse bag into the regular bin, along with my gloves.

‘Thanks. You too.’

I slip back into my car and drive off, glad to be away from the woman, uneasy knowing she’s seen me dumping my clothes. I head home once again, hoping I get there before everyone else.

I can’t see Matt’s van in the street, so it looks like my luck is still holding. I park in the same spot I vacated earlier and turn off the engine. I should probably vacuum out the car, but I’m across the road from the house; I’ll draw too much attention to myself. And quite honestly, I just don’t have the energy. I’m wrung out. Exhausted. At this rate, the migraine excuse will become a self-fulfilling prophecy.

I heave myself out of the car and back into the house, telling myself that whatever else happens, at least I have Bella’s hair. That’s what tonight was about, and in that regard it was a success. Even if I feel grubby and terrible about what I had to do to get it.

Suddenly, I realise I really am absolutely freezing. Going out without a coat was a daft idea. I’ll have a shower, wash my hair and crawl into bed with my phone. Because as well as filling out the form for sending off the DNA sample, I also, finally, want to get some deeper online research done. I need to find out why Shaun went to prison. To find out if he committed a violent crime. And, more importantly, if his children are in danger.

Half an hour later, I’m sitting up in bed with my phone. My heart rate has slowed a little now that I’m home and safe. Although how long that will last is anyone’s guess. I’m still on high alert for sudden phone calls and knocks on the front door. I can’t believe it’s only six thirty. It feels like at least ten o’clock. Matt and the kids will be home within the hour, so I don’t have much time.

When Shaun and Kate were round here the other week, I remember him saying he owned a building company. Perhaps it’s listed online somewhere under his name. I’m not sure how that will help me, but if I could at least find out where it’s registered, that might give me somewhere to start.