Saffina Desforges' ROSE RED Crime Thriller Boxed Set

by Saffina Desforges

  Red’s eyes lit up. “That’s it! That’s what we can do. Ladies only night at Scarlett’s!”

  The smile dropped from Pippa’s face, replaced by a look of increasing horror. “It sounds like a brothel!”

  “Many a true word spoken in jest, Counsellor.” Red grabbed Pippa’s arm, dragging her across the street. “I promise you, Pip, we will both enjoy this.”

  Chapter 25.

  Pippa looked around the club as if at any moment the ceiling and walls were about to fall in on them.

  “Relax will you,” Red laughed. “It’s just a club.”

  “It’s not just a club.” Pippa said under her breath, eyes darting back and forth as semi-naked girls passed by holding trays off drinks aloft. “It’s a ladies only lap-dancing club!”

  “Only once a month. I’ve been wanting to check it out for ages, but my shifts never matched.”

  “Check it out with who?” Pippa demanded.

  “You, of course.” Red leaned across and planted a kiss on Pippa’s lips. She signalled a tall red-head with tassels swinging from her nipples. “Champagne please, miss?”

  The waitress smiled, dropping down on her haunches next to Red. A smooth hand reached out to Red’s thigh. “You, gorgeous, can get anything you like,” the waitress purredRed failed to suppress the silly grin spreading across her face. “And could you open us a tab.”

  The woman stood, glistening thighs almost level with Red’s face. The hand moved up to ruffle Red’s hair. “Don’t go away.”

  Pippa glared in the semi-darkness. “A tab?”

  “Easier than paying every time we have a drink. Less chance of getting ripped off or handed counterfeits in the change.”

  “I’m not at all sure I liked the way she touched your hair. Or your thigh. Or the way she wiggled her… her tassels in your face.”

  “It’s only a bit of harmless flirting. That’s what they’re paid for.”

  Pippa’s lips were set in a tight line. “You’d do well to remember that you are a senior ranking Police Officer now, Cassandra. I think we should find somewhere more appropriate to your position. Not to mention mine,”

  Red sank back into her chair, ankles crossed, hands back behind her head. “If anyone sees me in here, Counsellor,” she said, a smug expression on her face, “they’re not gonna be in any rush to tell anyone else now, are they?”

  Chapter 26.

  “Earth calling Pippa. Are you with us?” Red waved her hand in front of Pippa’s face.

  “Sorry?”

  “When I said we’d both enjoy it here I meant, you know, as a couple? You haven’t taken your eyes off that girl all night.”

  Pippa sat up indignantly. “What girl?”

  “That brunette. The one with nipples like coat-hooks.”

  Pippa gazed around Scarlett’s as if she had only just realized she was there. “I don’t know what you mean, Cass. I was deep in thought about a hearing I’ve got in the morning.”

  “You were deep in thought about something, Counsellor, that’s for sure. You were practically drooling.”

  “I most certainly was not!”

  “You were worse than Barry Taylor when he saw Nikki.”

  “Really, Cass. I don’t know what you are referring to.”

  “Hun, there’s nothing to be ashamed of.She’s drop-dead gorgeous.”

  “Nikki?”

  “The waitress you’ve been ogling.”

  “Cassandra, this place is full of topless waitresses. And topless dancers. One cannot help but gaze upon one now and again.”

  “Pip, you were practically following her around the room with your tongue hanging out.”

  “Was I?” Pippa sat back, defeated. She took Red’s hand. “I’m sorry. It’s just… Well, I’ve never seen another woman’s breasts before. Apart from yours, obviously.”

  Red tried not to smirk. “You’ve lead such a sheltered life, Counsellor.”

  Pippa conceded a smile. “I suppose I have, rather. Richard was the only man in my life, and you the only woman.”

  “Until tonight,” Red grinned. “I can see you’ve got the hots for that one. Fancy a threesome?”

  Pippa glared at Red. “Very droll, Cassandra. You should be on the stage.” Pippa stared at Red, a look of abject horror spreading slowly across her face. “You were joking, weren’t you?”

  Red stared at the ceiling.

  Pippa stared at Red.

  “Oh, come on, Pip, it’s harmless fun. Live a little.”

  “I’m in two minds whether or not this is degrading to women or not.”

  “Well, she doesn’t look too uncomfortable,” Red said, nodding in the dancer’s direction. “In fact, she looks like she’s quite enjoying herself. Not to mention earning a fair whack.”

  “All the same, I’ll be much happier when she puts her clothes back on.”

  Red leaned over, a hand on Pippa’s knee. “Maybe we should invite her over for a drink when she’s done? Then you can psychoanalyse her to your heart’s content.”

  Pippa scowled in the semi-darkness. “You may find this highly amusing, Cassandra, but that is somebody’s daughter up there. For heaven’s sake, she barely looks older than Ella!”

  “Be serious. She’s at least twenty-three.”

  “Not a day over nineteen.”

  “You of all people should understand where I am coming from, Cass. You’ve seen it far too many times before. Young girls being exploited.”

  “Honestly, Pip. Do you think anyone is going to risk their licence taking on underage girls in this day and age? On the streets, maybe, but not in a respectable place like this.”

  “Respectable?”

  “You know what I mean. I thought this evening was meant to be a break from the day job? To relax a little? Let our hair down?” Red sipped at her drink. “I might as well go back to work.”

  Pippa leaned back in her chair, watching as a dancer slid down a pole under the spotlight.“You could always ask to see the paperwork.”

  “I’m off duty, For Christ’s sake!”

  “That doesn’t bother you any other time.”

  Red slammed her glass down. “You seriously want me to?”

  “Good evening, ladies,” a voice behind Pippa greeted them.

  Red and Pippa turned in unison.

  “I trust that you have everything you need?”

  Red’s eyes followed the raven-haired woman’s gown down to the floor and up again to dark eyes that made Pippa’s chocolate orbs seem quite pale by comparison. Red tried to speak, but the words seem to bottleneck in her throat.

  The woman extended a hand. “I’m Gabrielle, the proprietor. How are you enjoying your first time at Scarlett’s?”

  Pippa took Gabrielle’s hand. Red was sure Pippa flinched as their fingers made contact. “So far we have been very impressed,” Pippa said in a star-struck tone. “This is my partner Cassandra. I’m Philippa.”

  Red stared at Pippa’s hand, lingering against Gabrielle’s. No surnames? Pippa always played the double-barrelled surname and QC initials.

  Gabrielle retracted her hand, turning to Red, breaking the spell over Pippa.

  “Cassandra. Delighted to meet you.”

  “Cass, please.” Red took Gabrielle’s hand, recoiling at the icy grip.

  “I’m sorry,” Gabrielle said. “I’ve just been retrieving champagne from the cooler. So, welcome to Scarlett’s. I do so hope your first time won’t be your last.”

  “Definitely not,” Pippa said before Red could answer. “This place is utterly enchanting. I see you serve meals as well. Next time we come we will be sure to avail ourselves.”

  Red’s mouth fell open.

  Gabrielle inclined her head slightly. “It’s lovely to have you both here. I trust you will both have a pleasant evening. Should you plan on staying until late, we have an extra special show commencing midnight. Members only.”

  “Members?” Pippa adjusted herself in her seat. “I rather like the sound of that.”r />
  “Through that door.” Gabrielle gestured to a portcullis style entrance in the far wall. The members section is somewhat more expansive than the public area. And our private shows are that much, how shall we say, more entertaining?”

  Pippa looked across at Red with hopeful eyes. “Cass?”

  “Not tonight, hun’.” Red forced a smile. “I’ve got an early start tomorrow.” She shot a warning glance at Pippa that said don’t contradict me, please.

  “Another time, then,” Gabrielle said, easing back. “Enjoy your evening.”

  Red watched Pippa watch Gabrielle as she sashayed back to the bar area.

  “What was that all about?” Red demanded when she was certain Gabrielle was out of earshot.

  “What was what all about?”

  “You know perfectly well what. One minute you’re finding any excuse to get us out of here, it’s such a sin palace. Then suddenly Cruella de Ville turns up and you’re practically climbing into her knickers.”

  “I was doing no such thing!”

  “Counsellor, you almost had us registering as members!”

  “Well why not? You seemed to be all in favour of the establishment earlier.”

  Red watched Gabrielle, deep in conversation with a staff member at the bar. The occasional glance in Red and Pippa’s directions. “I don’t think either of us want our names on record in a place like this. And besides, the only ID I have on me is police ID. I don’t want them knowing I’m a… Shit. Too late.”

  Pippa stared at Red. “Too late for what?”

  “Come on, drink up. It’s time to go.”

  “Go?”

  “Cruella just told the bar tart I’m a copper.”

  Pippa looked across the crowded room to where Gabrielle and the bar member stood. “How can you possibly know that?”

  “Counsellor, I’m a cop. One of the first thing we learn is to lip-read the words cop, coppers, and police, so we know if a suspect is trying to warn someone else.”

  “But how on Earth could Gabrielle have known that? She’s just this second met you.”

  “Exactly.” Red stood up. “Come on, Counsellor. Let’s get you home.”

  Chapter 27.

  “Peace at last!” Red placed an ankle on Pippa’s shoulder and probed the spout of the bath tap with her big toe. She tiled a wine glass in Pippa’s direction. “To having the house to ourselves. For a change. What would we do without Madame Sin?”

  Pippa smiled. “And a birthday bank holiday weekend ahead. I wonder if Richard would like to have the children after the barbecue.”

  “Negative. I’ve promised Ella I’d take her shopping Monday. Bank holiday bargain hunting.”

  Pippa wrinkled her nose at the suggestion. “You’ve just had a massive pay-rise, Cass. Do you really need to be seen hunting for bargains with our combined salaries?”

  “It’s not about the money, Counsellor. It’s about a girls’ day out.”

  “A girls’ day out?”

  “Me and Els.”

  “So I’m not invited, I take it?”

  “You? Come shopping? When’s the last time you went into a shop?”

  “I go to Harrods every quarter.”

  “Give me strength.”

  “Hold on, Cass. If you’re taking Ella out, who’s looking after Ruby and Jack?”

  “Your mum’s volunteered to have Ruby…” Red let the statement hang in the air.

  “And?”

  “And you’re taking Jack and Darren out.”

  “I beg your pardon?”

  “You heard, Counsellor. A bit of mother-son bonding won’t hurt. We can all meet up for lunch at the Trocadero afterwards.”

  “I hope that’s no some fast-food establishment. And supposing someone mistakes Darren for a child of mine?”

  “Then the poor kid will need therapy.”

  “You are so funny, Cassandra,” Pippa glared. “And where do you suggest I take Jack and his chav friend?”

  “You’ll think of something.”

  “Is the National Gallery open on a Bank Holiday?”

  “Of course it is. But I somehow can’t see Jack and Darren being too enamoured with that idea.”

  “Why on Earth not? Jack enjoys art at school. And I’m sure Darren would benefit from seeing Constable’s The Haywain.”

  “Why not take them to the opera while you’re at it? I’m sure most ten year old boys would give their right arm to see Verdi.”

  “Do you think so? Hmmm. I’m not sure they have performances in the mornings, and besides it would probably need booking in…” Pippa’s statement ground to a halt as she saw Red’s smug expression. “Oh, I see. Another of your silly jokes. Well, they say sarcasm is the lowest form of wit, Cassandra.”

  “Just chill, woman, for God’s sake. Anyway, let’s worry about the here and now. You’ve got me all to yourself, barring an emergency. Make the most of it.”

  “Well let’s hope your guy doesn’t decide on anymore vasectomies then.”Pippa nudged Red’s arm playfully. “Go on, I’m dying to hear the gory details.”

  “Really? You’ve not mentioned it all week.”

  “How could I, with the children around? On occasions like this I’m rather thankful they do not take an interest in the news. They don’t need to know what happens in real life.”

  Red took Pippa’s hand. “Sorry to disillusion you, Counsellor, but they probably know more than you do. It’s the number one story in the playgrounds of London.”

  Pippa’s hand flew to her mouth. “Oh my God, what did you tell them?”

  “Me? Nothing. I just said the investigation was on-going so I couldn’t discuss it. Doesn’t stop them wanting to know, though. And speculating. Some of the questions Ella was asking...”

  Pippa sat up with a jolt, sending a wave of foam and water over the edge of the bath. “Such as?”

  “Calm down, Counsellor.”

  “I’ll decide whether to calm down or not when I know what my daughter has been asking.”

  “Just the obvious. She’s a kid. She’s curious.”

  “Exactly, Cass. She’s a child. She shouldn’t know about this sort of thing at all.”

  “Public knowledge is public knowledge. Every kid her age knows about the murder. Ella was just asking sensible questions, trying to come to terms with it.”

  “What kind of sensible questions?”

  “Like did he die slowly or quickly? Would it have been painful? Why would anyone chop it off in the first place?”

  “Oh my God! Ella knows about that bit too?”

  “Pip, get real. This is London, not some remote island in the Outer Hebrides. Every school kid in the city knows every gruesome detail.”

  “At that Darren boy’s school I can well believe it. But not at Ella’s school. No way.”

  “Counsellor, she’s almost twelve.”

  “My point exactly. At Darren’s school you’d expect eleven and twelve year olds to be conversant with this sort of unsavoury subject matter. But I’m not paying thousands every term for Ella to be subjected to these sort of standards.”

  “You’re not paying anything, as I recall. Richard is.”

  “Don’t be obtuse. You know perfectly well what I mean. I shall have words with that young lady when she returns. Supposing she says something about it to Richard or Lucy?” Pippa’s hand flew to her mouth again. “Supposing Richard finds out you’ve discussed it with Ella?”

  “I told you, I haven’t discussed anything. She asked. I prevaricated. And I specifically told her not to say anything to her father.” Red sought to move the subject away from the children. “Anyway, I thought you wanted the gory details.”

  Pippa played with a handful of soapy bubbles. “I’m not so sure I do now.”

  “So you don’t want to know how I’ve split up Pinky and Perky?”

  Pippa’s eyes flickered into life. “Barry Taylor and Jez Harris?”

  Red grinned. “I’ve stuck Barry with Jim Mackenzie. Jim’s not too p
leased, I can tell you. Not that he’s said anything, of course.”

  “Poor James. So who did you lumber the boy wonder with?”

  “Anna. And believe it or not they work really well together. Like an errant nephew, with a friendly aunt keeping him on the straight and narrow.”

  “I’m surprised he can keep focussed with that new girlfriend of his. She nearly crushed me with those implants.”

  “According to Jez they’re all real.”

  “In his dreams. What is it about men and enormous breasts? Not that I wouldn’t mind an extra cup size.”

  “I love yours just the way they are, babe,” Red assured her.

  Pippa cleared her throat. “Cass, you know earlier...”

  “Earlier?”

  “At Scarlett’s.”

  Red felt her partner’s shoulders tense. “Yeah.”

  “I mean, you were joking weren’t you?”

  “Hun?”

  “About the threesome?”

  “Of course I was,” Red said, thankful Pippa’s back was to her to the smile went unnoticed. “As if I’d want to share you with anybody.”

  Satisfied, Pippa leaned over and replenished the wine glasses. “Here’s to us, Cass.”

  Chapter 28.

  Pippa eased back into the water, allowing the bubbles to flow up around her neck. “Did I tell you Richard’s bought a second second home in France?”

  “Doesn’t that make it a third home?”

  “I suppose it does rather. He said we might have use of it next summer, with the children, once it’s refurbished. It’s right down on the Mediterranean coast, near the Spanish border.”

  “Just us and the children, or us, the children and him and Barbie Girl?”

  “Just us. He made it very clear he had no intention of going on holiday with you ever again.”

  Red grinned. “The feeling’s mutual, I assure you.”

  “Speaking of holidays, I was thinking maybe we could have a long weekend somewhere, you and I, September time? Do you think you could get time off then? I’ve got some leave due.”