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‘Poe said that she was dumb – which she is – and that the world would be better off without her – which it would. He also said he was going to shave off one of her eyebrows, which I thought was rather kind of him. They look very silly.’

‘Poe?’

‘Boss?’

‘Stop being rude and aggressive.’

‘Yes, boss.’

‘Happy?’ Flynn said to Karen Royal-Cross.

‘Of course I’m not happy! I want him sacked.’

‘You worked out who the idiot in the room is yet, Tilly?’ Poe said.

‘Karen Royal-Cross isn’t a well woman,’ Bradshaw said. ‘I’ve been reviewing her online videos and she has a textbook case of histrionic personality disorder.’

‘You sure? She barelyhasa personality.’

‘I’m sure, Poe.’

‘What is it?’

‘I most certainly donothave a personality disorder!’ Karen Royal-Cross snapped.

‘It’s one of the classic PDs, Poe,’ Bradshaw said. ‘It’s characterisedby excessive attention-seeking behaviour. Karen Royal-Cross displays all the recognised traits: manipulating people so she remains the centre of attention, egocentrism, persistent longing for appreciation and approval. She blames others for her failures and has an unrealistic view of her successes. Her neurotransmitters aren’t functioning correctly.’

‘Stop it!’ Karen Royal-Cross yelled.

‘How much more is there, Tilly?’ Poe asked.

‘Lots, Poe. I’m only just getting started.’

‘You have two choices then,’ Poe said to Karen Royal-Cross. ‘I send out for popcorn while Tilly explains what’s wrong with you for the next two hours, or you listen to her briefing.’

‘Fine,’ she sighed. ‘Tell me your fake news briefing. I’d rather be dead than listen to any more of that.’

‘That’s the spirit,’ Poe said.