‘It’s one of our rules, I’m afraid.’ The assistant looked genuinely apologetic. ‘All garments must have their original labels attached in order to be returned. I think there was an issue at one stage of people buying dresses, wearing them and then returning them.’ Her expression was suitably horrified. ‘Not that I’m accusing you of any such nefarious act, you understand, I’m simply explaining why we have this rule.’

‘But surely you can make an exception in this case.’ Jo used her best wheedling voice. ‘It was you I bought it from. Only the day before yesterday!’ The sympathy creeping into the assistant’s eyes made her change tack. ‘This isn’t good enough. I’d like to speak to someone more senior please.’

‘I’ll get Mrs Simmonds.’ The speed at which the assistant left indicated her relief at passing a difficult situation over to someone else. Seconds later, voices drifted from the office behind.

Jo eyed the till. If this were a movie, she could reach across, open it, grab a wad of cash and scarper. A blinking light in the corner of the ceiling dragged her eyes upwards. She wondered if the assistant and Mrs Simmonds, whoever she was, were sitting back there assessing her. Perhaps they’d decide she looked reliable, dependable. Not the kind of woman who would dream of wearing an outfit only to return it the following day. Not the kind of woman who would do… what was it the assistant had said… ah yes, such a nefarious act.

To appear chilled, as if the outcome of their discussion didn’t really matter, she turned to admire some jewellery in a cabinet. Perhaps they’d refund the money if they imagined she was going to spend it on other items in the shop. Three hundred and seventy-five pounds. She could only think of one way to make up that loss. She’d sworn never again after the last time. A chill ran through her as she remembered the pain. No, she wasn’t doing that again.

‘Good morning.’

The sharpness of the words didn’t augur well for a good outcome. Determined not to give up, Jo turned and nodded in a manner she hoped was seen as regal… not desperate. ‘Good morning.’ She indicated the jewellery cabinet with another nod. ‘You’ve some lovely jewellery. My friend’s birthday is coming up soon; I’ll have to consider getting her a piece.’

If Mrs Simmonds was impressed, she gave no indication. ‘Dorothea tells me you desire a refund for this dress.’ She rested a hand lightly on the swathe of colourful material on the counter. ‘As she explained, our returns policy is strict. The sales tickets have been removed, which unfortunately makes a refund impossible. However…’

Relief… Jo uncurled her fists and began to relax.