“I’m expecting to hear anytime now,” Andee told them, “that Archie’s uncle, the infamous BJ, has been picked up. The charges will be drug and trafficking related, so there’s a chance he might be willing to throw Huxley-Browne under a bus over the fire in exchange for a few charges being dropped, or a lighter sentence.”

Helen said, “I’m truly sorry I’m not yet able to tell you what you want to hear, but there’s still a way to go before your husband is released.”

Claudia said, “Seven weeks—not that we’re counting.”

With a sympathetic smile Helen checked her mobile as it vibrated on the table. “I have to take this,” she said. “I hope you don’t mind. It’s about another case,” she added, clearly not wanting to get hopes up unnecessarily.

As she went through to the sitting room, Andee said, “Have you seen Dan’s report of our meeting with Archie yet?”

“He’s bringing it over later,” Claudia replied. “Have you?”

Andee smiled wryly. “I helped write it. I think it’s thorough, and fair. There’s no doubt in our minds that Archie is genuinely remorseful—and from the conversations we’ve had with you guys, we’ve gone with the assumption that you agree with that.”

Claudia looked at her mother. “I think we do?” she prompted.

Marcy said, “Who does the report go to?”

“That usually depends on who’s requested it,” Andee replied. “The police, social workers, parole officers . . . In this case, because Dan and I initiated it ourselves we’ll probably give it to DCI Gould for him to sign off on before presenting it to the Crown Prosecution Service. Of course, Helen, as the head of Archie’s legal team, will have a copy too. It should prove an important and useful document for her.”

Returning to the kitchen, Helen said, “My apologies for that, but it does mean I have to get back to the office. You have my number if you need to call, and once again, please don’t give up. I’m sure we’ll have better news soon.”

Marcy said, “Before you go, can I ask you about Archie?”

“What would you like to know?” Helen replied kindly, “keeping in mind lawyer/client privilege, you understand.”

Marcy nodded. “Of course, and I’ll try not to put you in a difficult position. We’ve had another letter from him. Dan brought it yesterday.”

Helen nodded, showing that she was aware of this. “Does it contain something that’s bothering you?” she asked, concerned.

Marcy said, “I’d just like to know if you’ve managed to get his charge changed or dismissed yet?”