I try to calm myself as we drive through the village and all the familiar landmarks flash by – the independent bookshop, the Italian restaurant where we celebrated Jack and Georgie’s twentieth wedding anniversary, the dog groomers where Mr Allen takes his fat retriever, the florist – but my heart is pounding so much it feels like I might pass out. When we reach Wimbledon station I take off my seat belt and sit forward.

‘I’ve changed my mind,’ I say, my voice trembling. ‘Drop me here.’

‘But this is not what you booked,’ he says, shaking his head. ‘This is not West Hampstead.’

‘I know, but I don’t feel very well,’ I say, scrambling for the door.

‘Don’t be sick in my car,’ he cries, pressing a button that releases the door. ‘I charge extra for soiled seats.’

I jump out of the taxi, aware that I will have been billed for the entire trip to West Hampstead, but I don’t care. I felt so scared being in that enclosed space. At least on the train, I tell myself, there is safety in numbers.

I hurry towards the station entrance, my forehead soaked with sweat, and as I walk through the ticket barrier my phone bleeps.

I dare not look at it. What if it’s him? What if he’s here, watching me? But then it could be something important, I tell myself. The police. Or Georgie. I look down at the screen. There’s a number I don’t recognize but the message underneath makes my heart soar.

Hello, stranger. Long time no see. Listen, I’m back in the UK and this is my new number. I’m staying with some friends in Maida Vale and would love to catch up. I know it’s short notice but are you free this morning? If so, how about we meet for coffee. There’s a lovely little cafe on Formosa Street near Warwick Avenue tube. We could meet there. I’ll be there from 11.00. I know there’s lots we need to talk about.

I don’t have to be at the police station until 1 p.m. I won’t have much time but I’ll be able to have a quick coffee with Lottie then jump in a cab. It will be worth it, just to see her. I quickly text back.

I’m free. See you there x

I put my phone into my pocket, relief flooding through me at the thought of seeing my best friend again. It’s like she knew exactly when I needed her most. I don’t care what has happened in the past, I need her. And she was right about Connor in the end. I just hope she can help get me out of this mess.

27. Then