They exchanged smiles and Lindsay set off. By five she was back in the office, writing her copy. Just before she left, at seven, Duncan called her over to the newsdesk. “Right then, kid,” he said. “Now, you’ve got the rest of this week off as far as I’m concerned. Not that I’m paying you, mind. But one favor deserves another. You come up with anything good on the murder and I want first bite of the cherry. A cracking good exclusive, right? I know we’re not usually interested in anything highbrow and south of the border, but she was at least born in Scotland and the scandals of the upper classes always sell papers. Is that a deal?” He fixed his bloodshot blue eyes on her and scowled.

“It’s a deal,” said Lindsay resignedly, “I don’t mind cutting my financial throat for you, Duncan; you’re such a charming bastard to work for.”

“I’ll make it worth your while, Lindsay. Don’t worry about that. Now on your bike and get working. You’ve had a nice restful day to set yourself up. The next time I hear your voice, I want it to be saying, ‘It’s a belter, Duncan.’”

Lindsay chuckled to herself as she ran down the three flights of stairs to the back door. Cordelia was waiting for her there, and she again experienced that tight feeling in the chest on seeing her. She was glad to feel it, because it meant that this was more than just simple lust. Their eyes met and Lindsay could see that Cordelia was just as pleased to see her. They walked to the car arm in arm, Lindsay for once not giving a damn who might see and what they might think. It gave her immense satisfaction to stow Cordelia’s bag in the boot beside her own.

“What kind of day have you had?” asked Cordelia.

“Busy,” Lindsay replied, revving up the powerful engine. “I’ve only just had time to read the evening paper report of the remand hearing. Did you see it?”

“No, but I heard something on the radio at your place,” Cordelia answered. “After that flat recital of Paddy’s remand in custody without bail, I need something to lift my mood. Did you make any progress? For God’s sake, say yes!”

“Well, I’m a bit further forward than I was this morning,” said Lindsay, pulling out on to the urban motorway that cuts a broad concrete swathe through the heart of Glasgow. Cordelia scribbled down notes of what Lindsay told her she’d learned.