‘I’m not sure that I do “think”, ma’am. I don’t use dating apps. I’m not against using them. I just don’t see a dating app as a preferred avenue for me to be with someone. Also, I’m not sure my partner would appreciate it.’ Despite the fact that their relationship is over in her eyes, Archer feels no guilt at using Dom to support her statement.

‘Very well. Can we move on please, DI Hicks?’

Hicks turns to Archer.

‘DI Archer, did you manage to speak with Jamie Blackwell?’

‘Very briefly. He said the killer was dressed in rubber overalls and mask, so it was almost impossible to get a facial description. He did catch a glimpse of dark hair and described him as strong and athletic with an accent that was possibly Scottish or Irish.’

Quinn says, ‘Oliver Merrick has a Cornish accent, although I wouldn’t describe him as athletic. That said, it’s possible since I last saw him that he’s been on a diet and become a gym bunny.’

Hicks continues, ‘About Oliver Merrick: we know the car that took Elaine and Jordan Kelly was his. Also, Forensics worked through the night and are compiling their report this morning. They already told us that amongst the junk at Twyford Abbey was a discarded bottle of disinfectant with fingerprints that we have matched to Merrick. So, it looks like Merrick is our man. We have a watch on his house right now and are widening the search.’

Hicks takes out a copy of the same mugshot used on the news that morning and pins it on the board.

‘Do we know where he was last seen?’ asks Pierce.

‘North London, apparently. We’re looking into where that might be,’ says Hicks.

‘Very good. I want you to find Merrick. Do whatever it takes. He is our man.’

‘Yes, ma’am.’

‘Use whoever you need to help you.’

Hicks opens his mouth to speak but Pierce raises a hand to silence him. ‘DS Quinn and DS Felton, please help DI Hicks.’

‘Yes, ma’am,’ they reply in unison.

‘You and Felton can go together. I’ll check out some of Merrick’s old haunts,’ says Quinn to Hicks.

‘Suits us,’ replies Hicks.

‘We should not discount the fact that the killer failed to kill Jamie Blackwell,’ says Archer.

Pierce turns to Archer and blinks. ‘Then you must check in with your friend and get him into a safe house.’

Pierce’s emphasis on ‘friend’ silences the room and all heads turn to look at Archer who bites her tongue. ‘Yes, ma’am.’

‘OK, everyone. You know what you have to do. Get to it.’

As the team disperses Archer sees Quinn talking with Hicks and Felton. Moments later, Quinn pulls on his jacket and leaves.

She approaches Pierce. ‘Ma’am, what’s going on? Why have you demoted me from the investigation at this crucial stage?’