'Trust you.' Lara giggled and then continued more seriously. 'Thanks Dee, you can always make me smile. I look forward to your visits, you know.'

I didn't know and it made me feel good to be told. I squeezed Lara's fingers and smiled back. 'I'm glad, I see you as a friend as well as a customer.'

I released Lara's hand and reached for the other, noticing her pull a face as she shifted her position to comply.

'Hurting?' I asked sympathetically.

'No, not hurting.' She shuffled in her seat, frowning slightly. 'Just a bit uncomfortable.'

'I'm sorry. Would it be better another way?'

'No, I'm all right. Just ignore...