Extraits

'License and registration.’

The man calmly handed them over. The policeman inspected them briefly then turned to her. In a fit of desperation, she burst out, ‘We’re going to see my gran. She’s sick. She needs us.’

The policeman’s expression softened. He waved them on, already focusing his attention on the car behind them.

Once they were safely away, the man spoke, glancing at her in the mirror as he drove. ‘That was good work,’ he said. ‘A bit shaky but the improvisation was clever.’ He nodded. ‘It’s been a real stroke of luck meeting you. Perhaps we can help each other out. I’m Taylor. What’s your name?’

The girl, eyes wide and hands clenched tightly in her lap, took a deep breath. ‘Integrity,’ she said suddenly, her voice clear. ‘My name’s Integrity.’

Taylor laughed aloud. In fact three hours later, when they finally pulled into a dark Aberdonian street, he was still laughing. It was a long time before she realised why.