‘Yes, that’s the one,’ replied Julia. ‘Crown Prosecution Services said there wasn’t enough evidence to prosecute so the client decided to go private. Apparently, our firm was recommended, and the client asked for you specifically.’

‘They’d be better off with Alan or Greg,’ countered Claire.

‘I did suggest that,’ replied Julia, ‘but understandably she wanted a woman and I’m slammed at the moment. I’m sorry, Claire, I know it’s not ideal but do you think perhaps it might be time to—’

‘I’ll call her and explain,’ interrupted Claire, picking up the file and standing up. She’d started to leave but Julia spoke.

‘Claire,’ said Julia gently. ‘If she’s requested you, perhaps this might be a good opportunity to… you know, put the past behind you? Besides, it’s a good piece of business—’

‘I won’t lose us the business,’ replied Claire tersely ignoring the implication about her past. ‘I’ll just propose Chloe can take it on and Greg can assist.’

Julia nodded and let it go.

After walking back to her own office, Claire picked up the phone. The name on the file said Rose Aiker and she dialled the mobile number listed. It was answered immediately.

‘Hello?’

‘Hello, this is Claire Carmichael, from Stephens and Carmichael.’ Claire could hear loud music playing in the background. ‘Am I speaking with Rose Aiker?’

‘Yep, it is. I’ve been waiting for your call.’ Claire held the phone a few centimetres away from the receiver as Rose shouted down the phone, no doubt trying to hear herself above the music.

‘Well, that’s the reason I was calling,’ continued Claire.

‘What?’ shouted Rose. ‘Wait, let me turn this off.’

Suddenly the music stopped.

‘I said, that’s the reason I was calling,’ repeated Claire. ‘I would recommend you speak to one of my colleagues. We can of course arrange a female lawyer. Shall I get my assistant to make an appointment for you?’

Silence came down the line and for a minute, she wondered if Rose had hung up.

‘Are you licensed to try this case?’

‘Well, yes, of course, but—’

‘Then I would like an appointment to see you,’ replied Rose firmly.

Claire paused, Julia’s warning about not losing the client coming back to her. ‘Just give me a moment to check my diary.’

Perhaps during a meeting, Claire could be more persuasive. Confirming an appointment for the next day, Claire decided she would invite Chloe and Greg to the meeting as well. She would just have to explain that her colleagues had more experience in this particular field and Rose would have to see reason.

*