Alex Kingston glanced at her watch and sighed slightly. Sitting on the terrace of a London café, she was mechanically stirring her cappuccino, the foam of which was beginning to subside. Her new agent was late.

She looked up and looked out at the busy street, the passers-by wrapped in their coats, some in a hurry, others loitering carefree. She smiled when she saw a couple taking a selfie in front of an antique bookshop.

A waiter passed by her, and she raised a polite hand. "I'll wait a little longer, thanks."

A draft lifted a strand of her hair, which she tucked behind her ear, raising an eyebrow. This was a good start. A new agent, and already a first delay.

She grabbed her phone, hesitated for a moment, then changed her mind. Maybe he or she had a good reason. After all, she had seen worse in the industry.

With a small, amused smile, Alex leaned back in her chair and muttered to herself, "Come on, surprise me."