‘I’m at the premises now. My colleague and I have searched all three floors. There’s nobody in the building and there’s no sign of anything being taken as far as I can tell. You’re not aware of any reason why the premises would be left unlocked, are you?’

‘No. Mum’s always been vigilant about locking up. Some of the bears are worth a lot.’

‘Yes, I noticed that. Do you have any idea where your mother might be? I’m keen to get hold of her so we can get the premises secured but the station have been unable to contact her by phone.’

What day was it? Monday? Was that her yoga or Pilates night? ‘She could be at a yoga class with my friend Karen. I can try Karen’s phone. Or she could be at Karen’s mum’s. Could you give me five minutes and I’ll try their numbers? Should I call you back on the shop phone?’

There was another quick exchange of words.

‘Sarah’s going to stay for a bit. You can call me back on this mobile,’ said PC Haines.

‘Bad news?’ Sam asked when I hung up.

I held my head in my hands for a moment, taking a few deep, calming breaths then looked up at him. ‘Mum’s gone AWOL leaving the shop unlocked. The police are there and nobody can get hold of her. I need to try a few numbers. Sorry.’ I scrolled through my phone for Karen’s number.

‘Is there anything I can do?’ Sam asked.

I shook my head, holding the phone to my ear as it dialled Karen’s number. ‘Thanks but the numbers are all on my phone and… arse. Voicemail.’ I scrolled through for Rachel’s number, relief flowing through me when it connected after the third ring.

‘Hi, Jemma.’

‘Hi, Rachel. Is Mum with you?’

‘Not yet.’

‘You’re expecting her, then?’

‘Yes. Logan’s here.’

‘He’s not listening, is he?’

‘No. He’s upstairs with Eden. They’re having a competition to see who can build the highest Lego tower. Are you okay? Has something happened?’

I ignored her question. ‘When’s she due?’

‘In about… Gosh, is that the time? She was due about half an hour ago. Should I be worried?’

I could feel the panic rising in me. ‘I don’t know. She left the shop unlocked and the police are there. They’re trying to get hold of her. Is she doing yoga with Karen?’

‘Sorry, no. Karen runs a bootcamp on Mondays.’

‘Damn! I’d better hang up. I need to phone the police back then get hold of Liv or Annie to see if they can lock up. I think they’ve both got keys.’

‘No need. I’ve always had a spare set in case of emergency. I can go and lock up now.’