The two men stood in silence for minutes, just watching as mourners arrived. Lawyers mainly. All come to pay their respects to a giant of their profession. They were entering the church in twos and threes.

‘You need to go inside, Derek.’ Michael’s voice was soft when he finally spoke. ‘It won’t be long now.’

Reid turned and looked into Michael’s eyes. Tears were forming in his own.

‘You can’t come in?’

‘I can’t. We start at ten today. I’ve got to be there from the beginning.’

‘I know. Sorry. I shouldn’t have asked.’

‘Always ask, Derek. Always.’

Reid nodded his head. A tear began to trace a path down his cheek. Michael moved his arm to the back of Reid’s neck and pulled him close, hugging his friend’s head to his shoulder.

‘Just get through this,’ Michael whispered into Reid’s ear. ‘Because you’ll regret it if you don’t. Get through it.’

Michael could feel Reid nod against his shoulder. He released his grip and Reid stepped back, wiping the tears from his eyes. A smile faltered on his lips.

‘Thanks, Mike.’ Reid’s voice broke a little as he spoke. He indicated to the church door with his head. ‘I best be going, eh?’

‘I think so.’

Michael’s hand was still on Reid’s shoulder as the two men faced each other.

‘Look, when I’m done in court I can come to your place. Maybe take you out for a bite?’

‘No. No thanks. When this is all over I just want to go home. I’m going to open a bottle, get pissed and then get my head down. I’ll be no use to anyone after this.’

‘You’re sure?’

‘I’m sure. Give me a few days, Mike. You just concentrate on Simon. I’ll get in touch when my head’s back together. I just need to be alone for a little while, that’s all.’

Michael could understand. Grief was nothing new to him, and he knew it was something that everyone dealt with differently. Michael’s way had been similar to Reid’s. Do what needs to be done, then go into isolation. To mourn alone.

Reid knew his own mind.

‘OK. Then take care, Derek. And call me when you’re ready for some company.’

‘I will.’ Reid reached out and hugged Michael again. He whispered in his ear before letting go. ‘Thank you, Mike.’

Michael stepped back as Reid turned and watched his friend walk away, into Temple Church. He waited until Reid was inside before turning himself, towards a second archway and alley. This one led out of the courtyard and towards Fleet Street. And it was occupied.

It had been two years since Michael had last seen Joelle Levy in the flesh. Not usually long enough for a person to change too much. In Levy’s case, she had not changed at all.

Michael did not doubt that Levy recognised him, too. One thing he remembered about her was her absolute recall. An unusual skill in anyone. It made her a difficult witness to challenge.