“If you leave your dirty clothes here, then I will have them laundered.” She smiles again, wide and friendly and doesn’t even flick her eyes over my messy, dishevelled appearance with any question. Just accepts.

I like her.

“Thank you … umm … did Alexi say when to expect him back?” I ask awkwardly as she turns to leave, knowing she might not have a clue, but it’s worth a try; my stomach is tying itself in knots and could do with some intel. If I know when he’s ...