Claire knew Julia was right but in that moment all she wanted to do was shake Rose until she admitted her mistake. Claire sat back down into the chair and put her head in her hands. She felt nauseous. What was happening? She felt Julia’s arm come around her shoulders and it was then she started to cry.

*

Claire felt a warm drink pressed into her hands. She had no idea how long she’d sat with Julia, shock suspending the slow seconds of time. She sipped the sweetened tea and looked at her friend.

‘What now?’ she asked, releasing herself from Julia’s arm, which had been around her.

Julia adjusted her position but still left a hand on Claire’s forearm.

‘Well, first we need to make sure you’re okay and that’s why I met with the partners first thing. We’ve agreed it would be best for you to take some official leave – be there for your family – just until this is all sorted out.’

‘You mean not work at all?’ asked Claire in surprise. ‘I thought you said I’m just off the Aiker case.’

But even as she said the words, Claire knew it was fruitless. One of the founders of the firm involved in a case? It was a potential PR nightmare, not to mention conflict of interest and the legal ramifications.

‘We think it’s the right thing to do, Claire – not just for the company but for you and your family.’

Claire closed her eyes, trying to think but her thoughts were hazy, their usual sharpness dulled. She felt Julia’s fingers squeeze her arm supportively, but it felt too firm and suddenly, she wanted to get out of the meeting room. She couldn’t breathe. She stood up quickly, surprising Julia. ‘I need some air.’

‘Of course,’ said Julia, walking to the window to open it.

Claire continued to stand, a part of her just wanting to escape but another part of her needing to know more.

‘We’ll work this out, Claire,’ reassured Julia. ‘We’ll talk to Rose and find out what’s going on. It seems strange she’s only just remembered and there will be an explanation I’m sure. I will work on the case with Greg and Chloe and I’m positive it will all be resolved, and you’ll be back at work in no time.’

Claire took a deep breath. She felt reassured by Julia’s words – she was rarely wrong about a case and she trusted her friend implicitly.

‘But for now, you need to call Chris and go home and be with your family and leave this to me. Okay?’

‘Okay,’ agreed Claire, suddenly desperately tired.

‘Are you okay to drive or do you want me to call you a taxi?’

‘I’ll be fine. The drive might help me clear my head a little.’