‘I’m not sure really, but given the awful things that have happened at Oaktree Farm I feel I need to find out as much as I can about the place and the family.’

‘Well she’s a nice lady and I’m sure she’s following the latest story with interest. I can give you her contact details and if you like I can ring her to see if she’s up for talking to you.’

‘I’d appreciate that, Giles. I could pop along to Ravenstonedale in the morning before going to the office if that’s convenient for her.’

‘I’ll find out and call or text you,’ Keegan said. ‘Now, I realise you’re in a hurry to get going but before you do, I’m desperate to know how things are progressing with the case.’

James grinned. ‘You also know that I’m not supposed to tell you.’

‘But I’m sure you will if I top up your drink.’

CHAPTER FORTY-ONE

When he got home, James made a point of engaging with the two officers who’d been sent to keep an eye on the house. Their unmarked car was parked in front of a gated entrance to the field across the road.

He was relieved to be told that they hadn’t spotted anyone acting suspiciously or matching Andrew Sullivan’s description. They also let him know they’d spoken to two of the neighbours who had expressed concern about their presence, telling them that they were there so they could be at DI Walker’s beck and call 24/7.

‘Can you pass on our thanks to your lovely wife, sir?’ one of them said. ‘She’s made sure we’ve been comfortable by plying us with coffees and cakes.’

James said he would and went into the house happy to know there would be dessert waiting for him. Baking was one of the things that Annie had been doing to keep herself busy. The result tonight was a plate full of James’s favourite Eccles cakes and Chelsea buns. He tucked in after devouring the two cheese and pickle sandwiches she’d prepared for him.

Annie barely touched her food though, saying she had filled herself up by picking at the baked goods throughout the day. But James suspected the truth was that she’d suddenly lost her appetite after he told her that he was on the list of people Andrew Sullivan wanted to settle scores with, and that was why he’d got one of his henchmen to come to Cumbria to take the photos. He hadn’t planned on breaking the news until later but she’d insisted on an update.

‘That man really is a monster,’ she said. ‘I just hope that he’s banged up or buried long before our baby is born.’

As she spoke, she placed a hand over her stomach and gave it a gentle rub.