‘Of course. It’s Madeleine Cromer. I live on the other side of town.’ She racked her brain for a random street in Wanstead, and remembered Redbridge Lane West. She was fully aware that she was committing a crime, but the likelihood of them remembering her face after a three-minute exchange, when their focus was on the property behind them, was slim. It might raise questions when no Madeleine Cromer lived at the address she was supplying, but if they let her go on her way now, she need never set foot in Wanstead again.

‘When did he die?’ she asked.

‘On holiday, ma’am.’

Tilly returned to her car and drove as fast as she could back to Leyton. She referred to her notes and dialled the number for Ravensword.

‘Oh, hello there. I’m sorry, I’m a bit teary, I…’ She broke off for authenticity before carrying on.

‘Do you know the extension you need?’ The woman on the other end wasn’t in the best of moods, but Tilly persevered.

‘Well, it’s the neurocellular lab. You see, I just found out about George, and I…’ She paused again.

‘Oh Christ, I’m sorry. Yes, we’re all in shock here too. How can I help? Are you a relative of George’s?’

‘Yes, he is… he was my uncle, my only relative really. He was like a father to me, and I just don’t know who to turn to. I can’t get to London, and I need to do something. Can I at least talk to his colleagues? I know Emily quite well – I met her kids once, when I was down seeing George. Or perhaps Alexandros? I know he was like a son to George.’ It was an Oscar-worthy performance and she thought the mention of George’s colleagues added a touch of class.

‘Oh, gosh, miss, I… Wait a moment, please.’

Tilly was put on hold for a few minutes. When the woman came back on the line, her voice was conspiratorial.

‘Look, I really shouldn’t be telling you this, but there’s been a terrible incident. You need to contact the police.’

‘Why? What’s happened? I’m due to meet with lawyers and the police when I get to London. Please tell me what’s going on.’

‘You say you’re his niece?’

‘Yes, he had no children.’

‘Can I take your name, miss, in case I have to call you back?’

Shit.

‘Of course, it’s Carrie Law. Mike knows me too.’ She hoped that would do the trick.

‘You need to call the officer in charge, Miss Law. His name is DCI Carter. The investigation is ongoing, but Emily and Mike were found dead too.’

‘What?’ The panic in Tilly’s voice was genuine. ‘What about Alexandros?’

‘He’s…’ The woman coughed. ‘I’ve said too much. I could lose my job.’

‘Please,’ Tilly pleaded.

‘He’s gone missing.’