‘I know it’s of little consolation where Tony’s concerned, but she wasn’t wearing her wedding ring. The WPC noticed a white mark on her ring finger. When asked if she was married, Brooks became nervous and said she’d taken her wedding ring off because her finger had swollen up and it hurt.’

‘Did you contact her husband?’

‘The WPC asked Brooks if she’d like us to, but she said he was away on business and she’d tell him when he got back. She also declined a lift home and when she got in a cab I rang her home address. A man answered and said angrily, “Is that you, Laura?”. I said I’d got the wrong number and put the phone down.’

‘Sounds like Brooks panicked, thinking she’d be arrested for public indecency.’

‘Possibly – if her allegation is false.’

‘Will you be interviewing Tony, or will you hand the case over to early turn?’

‘I’ll interview him after I’ve spoken to Noel Harper. If their stories match, I’ll release him on bail pending further enquiries and deal with the case myself. I’m back on day shift Monday.’

‘I know I’m pushing my luck but is there any chance I can see him?’

‘I’m not sure that’s a good idea.’

‘I won’t mention I’ve spoken to you or Harper – I just want to speak to him about my sister and tell him to be truthful.’

Boon stood up. ‘I’ll tell the custody sergeant you’re family and I’ve approved a short cell visit – but I’ll have to be present.’

‘Of course.’

*

As Boon opened the cell door, Jane saw Tony sitting on the bed with his head in his hands. As soon as he saw Jane he started to well up.

‘I’m sorry, Jane – I really messed up. I’m so ashamed of what I’ve done.’

‘So you should be, Tony – even more so for giving a false name and using my address.’

‘I was worried Pam would find out I’d been arrested.’

‘If you hadn’t fancied a sordid quickie up a dirty alleyway, you wouldn’t be here now. This is DS Boon, and he’ll be dealing with the investigation and interviewing you.’

‘I swear, Jane, I didn’t assault her – she’s lying.’

‘I’m not here to discuss your arrest or persuade DS Boon you’re innocent. He will decide what happens to you, but you must tell him the truth and give him the details of the friends you were with so he can interview them.’

Tony was surprised by her bluntness. ‘I don’t want to drag them into this mess.’

Jane could see through his apprehension.