‘Is it? We know you persuaded people like James Hampton to invest in your porn business. We also know that if they decide they want out – maybe because child pornography is a step too far for most people – you refuse to return their investment and then you blackmail them.’

I study Mason’s face. ‘James Hampton asked to meet you, didn’t he? In private.’ I’m thinking of what Elise saw in the woods. ‘He begged you to give him his money back. But you refused, didn’t you?’

Mason looks shifty. ‘Is that what he told you?’

‘You were seen, Mr Mason. By one of the villagers, who said the exchange between you looked as though it got quite heated before you drove away. Or do you have a different version of events?’

After glancing sideways at his lawyer, Mason starts speaking. ‘I did meet Hampton – it’s hardly a crime. And I admit to some of the photographs – all of consenting adults. But I can’t claim to know what goes on when I’m not there.’

‘They’re on your premises, on your machines.’ The DI’s voice is sharp. ‘And we’re talking about more than distributing. Evidence suggests they were taken there. Where did the children come from, Mr Mason?’

Mason folds his arms. ‘I’ve never handled child pornography.’ He pauses. ‘That’s all I can tell you.’

‘I see.’ The DI sounds sceptical. ‘So, if it wasn’t you, perhaps you can tell me who is responsible.’

Mason stays silent.

‘For God’s sake, Mason.’ The DI looks disgusted. ‘You’re doing yourself no favours here. You’re already facing charges of possession and distribution of pornographic images of children. Then there’s deception, blackmail … It’s already quite a list.’

But Mason says nothing further.

Chapter Forty-Five

Elise

Niamh grabs my arm, tears streaming down her face. ‘You can’t do this. He’s going to kill you.’

I stare at her, suddenly realising I’ve completely misunderstood the way she’s been thinking. She hasn’t been frightened for herself, she’s terrified for me. As it sinks in that she believes her father is capable of killing me, I know a new level of despair. No child should have to carry a weight like that.

‘Niamh … he won’t, he can’t …’

‘He will!’ She sobs. ‘You know what he’s like. He doesn’t care what he does to you.’

I’ve never seen her so emotional. It’s as though everything she’s bottled up inside for too long is erupting from her. I try to grab her hands. ‘Niamh. Stop. This isn’t helping.’

‘Neither will leaving,’ she cries. ‘It will make everything worse. You know it will. We have to stay.’