‘Fair question.’ Hawkins spread her palms. ‘But Gerry still hasn’t ruled out non-intravenous overdose, and if these three had upset a big dealer with a reputation to manage, they might have become examples to other potential non-payers. We know Wilson was fighting his ex for custody of the kids, which will have been both stressful and expensive, while Kowalski was on the brink of losing his job. Maybe Tennent’s business wasn’t performing, or he just liked to party.’

Frank snorted. ‘It’s pretty tenuous.’

‘It’s a long shot,’ she countered, ‘but it’s a theory, and we’re struggling here.’ She moved on swiftly, not wishing to get bogged down. ‘So, while we’re waiting for the post-mortem results, let’s see if this drug angle leads anywhere. Amala, find out exactly what was in those bags Wilson had, and where he got them, if you can. Aaron, we need to know if Tennent was still using, and if so who supplied him.’ She turned to Frank. ‘I’d like you and Chris to dig up some background on Streatham Motors. See if any of their staff, Kowalski included, was ever pulled for drugs. Any questions?’

Aaron and Amala shook their heads. Frank pulled a face that said you’re wasting your time, but didn’t argue. Chris looked lost.

‘Good.’ Hawkins retrieved her coat from the nearest desk and headed for the exit. ‘Keep me posted, and I’ll let you know as soon as I get the autopsy report.’

She paused at the door. ‘If anyone needs me, I’ll be in Streatham.’

11

Hawkins strode towards the distant mechanical whirs and screeches coming from Streatham Motors. She hadn’t been as lucky with parking today, forced to take a space fifty yards up the road.

She crossed the street and headed for the garage, nearing the entrance as a car drew up alongside. She glanced over, recognizing the red Speedyparts van from her previous visit, as the vehicle stopped in the same place and the same driver jumped out, moving around the front of the van holding two cardboard boxes.

He noticed Hawkins as he reached the kerb, giving her a playful wink just as he tripped on the pavement and fell forwards, dropping both parcels.

‘Careful.’ She retrieved one of them, handing it back as he regained his feet, flushing.

‘Cheers.’ The driver brushed gravel off his knees and bent to gather the second package, nodding towards the entrance. ‘Ladies first.’

Hawkins walked in ahead, glancing around to find Vladimir Kask behind the reception desk of his indoor conservatory. She entered, moving aside to allow the delivery guy to place his boxes on the counter. He gave her another wink and left, this time managing to stay upright.

Kask rose, lifting the top box to inspect its crumpled edge. ‘You are back.’

‘I said there might be more questions.’ She watched him poke at the damaged cardboard.