“She should be chuffed. And proud.”
“Incidentally, how did you contact Frank?”
“I’ve not been a cop for twelve years for nothing. You had to have some justice after so long. And I did tell him not to mention Kayleigh’s name, and to stay in touch with you.”
*
The clock struck eleven. Rita waited for its bleak chimes to end before speaking again.
"You’re right. I must see Jez’s diary, and,” she hesitated. “Where Frank ended up, if it's possible. Can you understand that?"
"Of course. I collected my Saab from Briar Bank on the way here, so once Kayleigh's home tomorrow, I'll take the three of you down south. Portsmouth CID will want to hear your side of things anyway. And you can pick up your mac belt too. I think I know why Perelman kept it. Why he killed Jez. And I suspect, Jip."
"Tell me."
"Jealousy."
"What? I don’t get it. He had everything. Or did."
"Except as he said to me, a real Mum and Dad. A real home." He then paused. "At least he could have had a brother."
*
The kitchen clock's luminous face showed midnight. Tim finally pushed back his chair and walked over to her. "Better start looking for that new house. For me as well, don't forget." His eyes said it all, and Rita pinched herself to make sure she’d not been hearing things.
"Are you serious?"
“Never more so.”
“I know your flat's being taken off you, but surely you'll still be based in London?”
He shook his head.
"I've requested a transfer to the Midlands.”
“Really?” Thinking of Rugby. “Why?”
“On medical grounds."
"Medical?"
"Yes. A common enough condition, and curable, I believe." He pulled her towards him, holding her close enough for his lips to meet hers in a crush of hope and longing and, from the corner of her eye, she noticed his hyacinths on the dresser had fully opened. Blue, the colour of holiday skies. Something she’d never want to forget.
"This condition?" She looked up to meet his gaze before he kissed her a second time. “Is it something I should know about?”
"I think they call it heart trouble."
END
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Many thanks go to David Lewis of Publish & Print – www.publishandprint.co.uk for his patience, expertise and support
Cut To The Bone Page 38