The Smoking Room

Chapter One

Jack Daly always remembered the first time he saw Miriam O'Donnell. It was in Malaga Airport on his way home from two weeks in the sun. She was standing at the perfume counter at one of the shops near the departure gates. The assistant was holding up a large bottle. Miriam was leaning towards it. Her eyes were closed. There was an expression of complete bliss on her small, heart-shaped face.

What was it about her that attracted him? She was very pretty. She had a lovely figure: long, slim legs and a tiny waist. Her hair was black and very shiny. Her skin was smooth and tanned. But it wasn't just the way she looked that made him want to stop and talk to her. It was the expression on her face as she smelled the perfume. She looked as if she was capable of feeling real joy. Although he was never usually very up front, Jack suddenly had the confidence to go up to her. He held out his hand and said, "Hi. My name is Jack Daly. Would you fancy a drink or a cup of coffee while we're waiting for the plane?"

That was how it all began.