Fred slept in a shallow way, giving in to fatigue rather than getting any real rest.
Although he didn't intend to fall asleep, the leather armchair in the library had held him close and the soft sounds of the city outside had lulled him into a fitful sleep.
A dim icy blue light was reflected across the ceiling by the laptop which was left on the desk.
A sudden noise cut through the silence before dawn.
It came from downstairs in a single commanding knock, not the shy tap of a delivery but the firm rap of someone who was expecting a prompt response.
Fred's eyes popped open.
For a brief moment he couldn't tell what day it was. He blinked, his eyes stinging from the blue light.
He raised his arms above his head and as his tense muscles relaxed, a long low moan of protest came out
