I examined the object, holding it up to the light. It was made from deep blue glass, with a hole in the top, and it was strangely beautiful. ‘Thank you. What is it?’

She gave an odd little laugh, as though I should have known. ‘It’s a spirit ball. A charm to keep you safe. Hang it by your fireplace and it will bring you luck.’

Leaning forwards, she patted my burgeoning midriff.

‘You’re carrying very low, my dear. Baby’ll be here any day now, you mark my words.’

‘But I’ve a good fortnight left …’

‘Oh. Well make sure you’ve a bag packed, that’s all I’ll say.’

The old woman’s silent, knowing smile left me uneasy.

*

‘I’m telling you, Jack, it was him. It was Frank Barley that I saw in the garden all those times. I’m absolutely one hundred per cent certain.’

We sat at the dinner table that evening, Jack scratching his head in disbelief.

‘There must be some other explanation. I mean … I’m sorry, I don’t believe in all that paranormal bollocks. It’s just … fanciful. Maybe … I don’t know, maybe it was a visiting nephew with a strong family resemblance – or the husband could’ve had a long-lost son she didn’t know about who turned up out of the blue. I’m looking for a rational explanation here. Have you had your eyes tested recently?’

I wanted to throttle him. It was exasperating.

‘There’s nothing wrong with my eyesight! And she never seems to have any callers. You know that as well as I do. The only person I’ve ever seen round there apart from Bob has been the mysterious visitor, and she denies all knowledge of him. And if he’s actually a ghost, it would explain a hell of a lot.’

‘We don’t watch her house 24/7 – it’s not impossible that someone else has been round to see her once or twice.’

‘For God’s sake.’ I raised my palms skyward in frustration.

‘Look,’ he said gently, taking my hand, ‘I’m not trying to patronise you, but I think you’re being a bit irrational. I mean, I know you’re anxious – and that’s understandable. Apart from the fact that you’re not sleeping well, the pregnancy must be taking its toll on you and you’ve lost your best friend. That’s a hell of a lot for anyone to have to deal with.’

I rolled my eyes. He tilted my face towards him.