Petra’s mind tried to grapple with Carol’s words and make sense of them. What was all this about killing Katerina? She shook her head. She couldn’t process this stuff now, and it was clear that there were more urgent matters on hand. She had no idea how long had passed since the attack on Carol. She had no idea where Radecki and Krasic were. She headed straight for the salient question. ‘Where have they got him? Do you know?’

‘No, I don’t know. But you’ve got to find them. Stop them. You can’t let them kill Tony.’ Carol’s voice was desperate. Tears leaked from the corners of her eyes as she clung on to Petra like a terrified child.

‘Radecki did this to you?’ She needed confirmation.

‘Yes.’

‘We need to get you to police headquarters, to the rape suite. You’ve got to see a doctor.’

‘That’s not important now. I’m alive. Tony might not be for much longer. You’ve got to do something, Petra.’

Before Petra could say anything, she heard the distinctive ring of her mobile. ‘Let me get that,’ she said, gently extricating herself from Carol’s grasp. She got to her feet and retrieved her bag.

‘Hi, babe.’ The voice was familiar, its cheerfulness dislocating in the context of the apartment.

‘Marijke?’

‘That’s right. Guess where I am.’

‘What?’

‘Guess where I am.’

‘I have no idea,’ Petra said impatiently.

‘I’m nearly at Zoo Station. In a cab. So, where do you want me to meet you?’

‘What? You’re in Berlin?’ Petra wondered if she was losing her mind. This was insane. What the hell was Marijke doing in Berlin?

‘I have to go to Köln tomorrow, so I decided I’d make a detour and stay with you. I thought you’d be pleased.’ Marijke had realized that Petra was less than delighted and couldn’t keep the disappointment from her voice.

‘Jesus, Marijke, this is the worst possible moment… No, hang on, you can help me here. I’ve no time to explain, but I need you to come to Carol’s apartment. Can you do that?’

‘Of course. Where is it?’

Petra gave her the address. ‘I’ll see you soon. I’ll explain. I’ve got to go, I’m sorry,’ she added, glancing over her shoulder to see Carol hauling herself upright using the chair for support.

‘Petra, you’ve got to find them,’ she said urgently.

‘I will, I will.’ She crossed back to the desk and grabbed the phone. ‘Marijke’s on her way. She’ll take you to the police station.’

‘What’s Marijke doing in Berlin?’ Carol asked, sounding as confused as Petra felt.