‘Oh, my God,’ said Alison. ‘I think you’re right. It has to be. Wow.’ She shook her head as the enormity of the realization sank in. ‘Well, this is brilliant news for you, Andy – it has to be the scoop of the century!’

‘I can hardly believe it. What a disgusting lowlife piece of scum.’ Then a huge grin spread across his handsome face. ‘But it is going to be a fantastic scoop!’

‘I am pleased for you.’ Alison’s voice was sincere. ‘But what am I supposed to do? I really don’t think I can continue to defend these sadistic thugs …’

‘You can always refuse,’ Andy pointed out as he drained his pint.

‘Hardly good for my career.’

‘You never know – it could do your career the world of good. You’ll become known as the lawyer with principles, and a QC before you know it!’ Andy was feeling so jubilant to have got to the bottom of his lengthy, and at times soul-destroying investigation, that he leant over and gave Alison a hug.

She hugged him back with a lot more enthusiasm than he’d bargained for, and he gently pulled away.

‘Erm – would you like another drink? I’ve got to be home for dinner soon, but you look like you could do with one more …’

‘Oh, God, yes, I’d love one. Thank you.’

When he returned this time, Alison started telling him about Philip and his repugnant offspring. As she ranted on, Andy was aware of the time racing away, and Bella waiting back at the flat for him.

‘They sound spoilt and horrendous, but – let’s be honest, Alison … You did split up their parents’ marriage. You can’t expect them to love you immediately.’

‘I don’t expect them to love me at all – a little civility would be nice, though.’ Alison’s voice was wobbling slightly. ‘I certainly don’t love them.’ And then her voice broke. ‘I’m not even sure that I love Philip, really.’ She turned to Andy, unshed tears shining in her pale blue eyes. ‘What if I made the biggest mistake in my life? What if it’s you I still love?’

She moved towards him, her lips slightly parted, as though expecting a kiss.

Andy jumped back, horrified, thinking immediately of Bella.

‘Oh, Alison, no. I’m sorry you’re having a difficult time with Philip, but this isn’t the answer. I’ll walk you home, though, if you want – it’s just around the corner, isn’t it?’

It took Alison a moment or two to reclaim her dignity.

‘It’s OK, I’ll walk myself home. Thanks for the advice though – I think I will refuse to defend the bastards. Nothing wrong with a bit of integrity in the legal profession, for a change.’ She smiled bravely. ‘You go back to Bella. It’s always been Bella for you really, hasn’t it?’

‘You and I were good together once,’ said Andy kindly as he bent down to kiss her on the cheek. ‘But I’m with Bella now. I love her, and I always will. Best of luck with everything though. I’m already looking forward to the announcement of the youngest and brightest woman ever to have been appointed Queen’s Counsel.’