‘I’m planning to call on Megan first thing. It’s about time we had a heart-to-heart. I can’t keep avoiding the woman when I’m heading up the investigation searching for her child. It’s neither professional nor helpful.’

He pulled his head back. ‘Are you sure you want to do that?

She still thinks you’re a twat. I can do it for you if you want?’

Kesey frowned. ‘No, you’re all right, thanks. This is something I’m going to have to do myself. To be honest, I think I should have done it long before now.’

‘You know best, boss, although I’m happy to come with you if you want me to? I could meet you there. You know, smooth the conversational wheels a bit.’

Kesey laughed again. ‘No, I’m a big girl now. I don’t need anyone holding my hand.’

‘Okay, if you’re sure.’

‘I’ve got a dentist appointment at half eleven. I’ll see you later in the day if you’re still about.’

‘Night, boss, have a good one.’

Kesey waved as he went to walk away. Home was calling. She’d finish her drink, order a takeaway, and then head home herself. Maybe an early night was in order. Tomorrow was going to be a demanding day.

44

Megan’s home phone rang at just after eight that morning, waking her from a fitful sleep, interrupted by frightening dreams and dark thoughts that dragged her close to despair. She jumped from the bed, throwing back the quilt and rushing downstairs, just as PC Bethan Rees picked up the phone and said, ‘Hello.’ The officer listened, and then covered the mouthpiece and said, ‘Morning, Meg. It’s for you.’

Megan held the phone to her face, surprised to hear Heath’s chirpy voice at the other end of the line. ‘Oh, hello, Martin, it’s early, what can I do for you?’

‘Aren’t you pleased to hear my voice?’

‘Yes, of course I am. I’m just surprised by the time, that’s all.’

‘Is the piggy police officer listening? It’s in their nature. They like to snoop.’

Megan’s voice hardened. ‘She’s in the kitchen getting breakfast, why do you ask?’

‘I’ve got something very important to tell you. Something you’ll definitely want to hear. I want you to slip out unannounced and come straight to my house at exactly nine o’clock this morning. I’ll be waiting for you. But this has to be between the two of us. Talk to anyone else, the piggy constable, your mother, your ex, anyone, and that’s a deal-breaker. I won’t be able to share what I know. Are we in agreement?’

Megan inhaled a long breath. ‘Oh, come on, Martin, this is all getting a bit weird. I thought we were friends. You’re starting to freak me out. If you know something, if it’s important, I want you to tell me now.’

‘That’s not the way this works. Be here at nine and be alone. I’ve got such exciting news. But there’s only one way you’re going to hear it. Do what I say and tell no-one.’