‘Yes. I don’t think I can do much more here but I’m grateful for your help. It seems quite possible we’re looking at the same crew as yours, so if it’s okay with you, I’d still like to be kept up to date with any progress?’

‘No problem there and I assume you’ll let us know of any developments at your end?’

‘Sure, it goes without saying. So far we seem to have been doing the same things – looking at the family contacts and the usual door-to-door. It seems we spend most of our time asking questions, doesn’t it?’

‘It does, but I’m wondering if we’re asking the right questions.’ Both men were silent for a few moments. Then Alex told Dave about Richard Stone’s affair. ‘It’s difficult enough getting to the truth without the parents lying to us.’

As they walked through the almost deserted building, Alex asked how many kidnappings Dave had worked on.

‘Five, but the first one, the Bryson case, was more of an abduction; there was never a ransom demand.’

‘So how do the parents fare? I can see cracks appearing between the Stones – apportioning of blame, that sort of thing. Have you found anything similar with your cases?’

‘With this current one, yes. The parents blamed each other from day one and their attitude towards each other worsened as time went on. Hayley’s home again, but it’s anyone’s guess how her parents will recover as a couple. The Brysons, however, were very different. If anything it drew them closer – they looked to each other for support and in doing so managed to find their way through the unimaginable horror of those long years. I suppose it all depends on what kind of marriage they have. If Richard Stone’s having an affair, I should think their marriage is already shaky, so whether they’ll come through this intact remains to be seen.’

‘And do you think it’s possible the kidnappers were known to the family in your case, Dave?’

‘They snatched the girl from the street and asked for a ransom within the parents’ means which could indicate they knew the family’s routines and financial position. But it could just as easily be that they did their homework and watched the family before they struck.’

‘Do you have children?’ Alex asked.

‘Yes, a boy – you?’

‘A boy and a girl. A case like this brings it all home to you, doesn’t it? I can understand how the Stones feel in many ways, not just about their son being taken, but the resentment towards us doing our job. Having their home turned upside down when they’re sick with worry – the intrusion into their lives and questions to colleagues and friends. I wouldn’t like it much either but a successful outcome will make it all worthwhile.’