‘Yeah, I see you two,’ Zoe said. ‘And I’ve told you, I’m a big girl now. I can look after myself.’

She opened the tub and took out a slab of fruit cake. It looked rich and dark and Clare’s mouth watered. ‘Eyes off,’ Zoe said. She took a paper towel and wrapped it round the cake. ‘Okay if I leave this on your desk for him?’

‘Suppose.’

Zoe went back out of the kitchen, humming to herself.

‘I can’t get through to her,’ Sara said. ‘He’ll leave her high and dry. You know he will.’

Clare sighed. ‘I’ll have another go at him. But don’t get your hopes up.’

Tony was unrepentant. ‘She’s made me a cake,’ he said, indicating the paper towel.

Clare sat down. ‘Look,’ she said, ‘Zoe, she’s a real sweetie. Good fun and a good worker, too. I don’t want her upset.’

He laughed. ‘Don’t worry. I won’t break her heart. I’ll be gone in a few days anyway – if you ever wrap this case up.’

‘You’ll let her down gently?’

He drew the cake across the desk and broke a piece off. ‘Already done.’

‘Seriously? You’ve told her.’

‘Nothing to tell. I just said I was going to be busy for the rest of my time here.’ He shrugged. ‘She seemed okay with it.’ He popped the cake in his mouth and began to chew. ‘Oh, this is fab. Shame she didn’t bring you a bit.’

‘I hope it chokes you.’ She turned to leave but he called her back.

‘Executive decision, Clare: I’m letting the house party go.’

Clare frowned. ‘I’m not sure…’

‘But I am. Look, it’s five days since the brother was killed. None of them’s in the frame for it, as far as I can see.’ He broke off another piece of cake. ‘I reckon you’re looking for a professional hitman. There’s nothing to be gained by keeping them in that hotel.’

Clare sighed. ‘Suppose. When did you say they could go?’

‘Whenever they like. The sister – Famous Gaby – she was asking about the body. But I told her it wouldn’t be released any time soon. On the plus side, got your warrant to investigate their finances.’

Clare nodded. ‘Okay.’ She rose from her chair. ‘I just hope it’s not a mistake, letting them leave.’

‘Get the team onto checking anyone with precons for gun crime.’ He popped another bit of cake in his mouth. ‘That’s the way ahead.’

Chris was waiting for Clare in the incident room. ‘I hear he’s letting them go.’

‘Tony? Yeah. Afraid so. I can see his point, to be honest. We can’t keep them here indefinitely. And we’re making zero progress.’

‘What about the house?’

‘Eh?’