‘Not you. You were always in control, that was why you were impressive. Pure steel. Admirable.’

‘Thank you. But don’t tell me she just calmly left.’

‘I’ve told her how to contact me,’ he said. ‘And gave her my best advice. She won’t trouble you for long.’

‘I suppose it’s always possible that her son is Ben’s,’ Elise observed, not sounding greatly interested.

‘No. Last year her husband was featured in a magazine-great financier, devoted family man, et cetera. There was a picture of him and his son, with a strong likeness between them. She was trying it on with you because she needs money. Forget her.’

Elise gave a soft choke of laughter. ‘You made her think you’re going to help her.’

‘It was the simplest way to get rid of her. Or are you so shocked at my methods that you won’t accept my help?’

‘No-oh, no-’

The laughter was welling up in her now, uncontrollable. She’d endured the strains and tensions of the day, but having them suddenly removed was a shock that left her unsteady.

‘Signora-?’ His voice was gentle but he raised it when she didn’t seem to hear him. ‘Signora!’

She managed to shut off the sound but her whole body still shook, though whether it was laughter or trembling he was no longer sure.

‘I’m all right-really,’ she managed to say.

‘You’re not. You’re far from all right. Come here.’

He spoke brusquely and jerked her suddenly against him, holding her, not tenderly but firmly like iron, so that her flesh received a message of safety that infused her whole self, reaching her heart, making her relax.

It was crazy, Elise thought. She didn’t know him but his grip had the power to steady her.

She ought to push him away, not stand tamely in his arms. But the strangest feeling was creeping over her, as though here and only here was comfort and all would be well while he held her.