As they walked into the lock-up they were without any idea as to what Ray was contemplating. Then they saw the array of tools on the bench and, despite themselves, they were worried. This looked far too professional. Clearly Ray was a man who had done this before, a man who was at home with his surroundings. A man who looked more than ready for whatever was going to happen.

But they delivered Big Lenny Scott nonetheless.

Chapter One Hundred and Eighteen

Lesley Scott was mortified. How could she admit that her husband, who, despite his faults, she loved, had been lusting after her son’s wife? She had believed the girl would be good for her boy, would make him into a better person. Lesley had long concealed a fear that her son, Lenny, wasn’t everything she hoped he was. She had been frightened by his natural leanings, fearful of where they would lead him. She would never voice it but she had known him better than anyone else ever would or could – especially that girl he had married. He was her baby, her only child, and she had always looked out for him.

Big Lenny had fucked up big time, and there was nothing she could do about that. But she was determined her grandsons would always be within her fucking orbit, no matter what she had to do to achieve it. She had to think and make plans for the future. Her grandsons were never going to be in the hands of that northern cunt, she would make damn sure of that as long as she lived. They would never forget their father. Her son. Her baby. Her life.

Chapter One Hundred and Nineteen

Big Lenny had been picked up from a pub in Bow. The landlord had been happy to serve him up just to get him off his premises. He was also pleased with the large drink he had been given for his trouble. Big Lenny was not a man who endeared himself to people.

As they went into the lock-up, there was an air of worry. It felt stifling even though it was a cool night and there was something about the look on Ray Donovan’s face that seemed almost demonic. Reggie and Barton had expected him to be angry, to mete out a punishment, but this seemed wholly inappropriate.

Barton took in the instruments, so lovingly set out, and said loudly, ‘Oh, for fuck’s sake. Jack Johnson will not be pleased.’

Ray shrugged, unconcerned. ‘I don’t give a fuck what Jack or anyone else thinks.’

Reggie sighed at the inevitable. In all truth, he wasn’t that bothered what would happen to Big Lenny; he had asked for it, as far as he was concerned.