‘But holding back information that might be vital to a murder investigation,’ Barrett cut in, embracing his role as bad cop, ‘is a criminal offence.’

Marion looked at Alfred again and the detectives watched him offer her an approving nod.

‘It’s not my place to destroy people’s marriages.’ Marion’s twinkling eyes filled with tears. Palmer and Barrett both knew when to shut up and they waited patiently for the woman to tell them what she knew.

‘It’s alright, love. You can tell them,’ Alfred encouraged, smiling kindly. ‘He was a married man,’ Marion hissed at her husband.

‘Who was?’ Barrett pressed.

‘Grant.’ Marion hung her head and put her face in her hands. ‘Grant Grubb.’

Alfred, who watched the reaction of both policemen closely, nodded in support of his wife. ‘It’s true,’ the old man added, ‘Marion told me a few years ago when she found out.’

‘What was I supposed to do?’ Marion sniffed, reaching for a hankie that was in her bag. ‘It wasn’t my place to tell.’ Her bottom lip straightened and she regained her composure.

‘How did you discover the affair?’

Again, Marion and Alfred shared a look. ‘You might as well tell them everything, love.’

Marion looked across at Barrett, who made it clear he was waiting for a proper explanation, and let out a long, tired sigh.