19

Star

Before the hour is up I hear the sound of a motorbike roaring to the front. Minutes later there is a quiet knock, and when I open it Celine is standing outside.

She looks at me strangely. I know my eyes are swollen and red.

“Your new phone has arrived. A woman who can teach you how to use it is also here.”

I follow her downstairs where a young Italian girl smiles at me and proceeds to show me how to use the phone. It is very different from mine and I have never heard of the brand before, but she is a good teacher, the interface is easy, and soon I am using it confidently.

“That’s it. If you have any problems don’t hesitate to call me,” she says standing up. “I’m sorry you had to come out at this time of the night.”

She grins broadly. “I wish more people would call me out at this time of the night. I’m getting paid almost a week’s wages for this, so believe me when I tell you, it is no hardship at all.”<