‘Hi, Lloyd,’ Jane said.

His smile widened with a look of delight. ‘Bloody hell, Treacle Tennison . . . long time no see.’ He gave her a hug and kiss on the cheek.

Jane instantly felt more at ease. She’d got used to being called ‘Treacle’ and knew he only used it as a term of endearment.

‘Treacle Tennison?’ Pullen said, looking at Jane for an explanation.

‘We used to work together at the Sweeney. “Treacle” was my nickname on the squad. It comes from the cockney slang: treacle tart – sweetheart.’ She turned to the newcomer. ‘It’s good to see you, Lloyd. How are you?’

‘I’m fine – and all the better for seeing your lovely face again.’

‘I’m Dr Sam Pullen.’ Pullen put her hand out and he shook it.

‘Sorry, rude of me not to do the intros first. Pleased to meet you, doc. I’m Detective Sergeant Lloyd Johnson. I’m here to assist you with the body in the coffin.’

‘Has the coroner sent you as a replacement for PC Rogers?’ Pullen asked.

Lloyd laughed. ‘No, I’m your laboratory liaison sergeant. Anything you need forensic-wise, I’m your man.’

‘Oh, right, I didn’t realise . . .’

‘Don’t worry, doc, it surprises everyone. Unfortunately, there were no white lab sergeants available, so you’re stuck with me.’

Pullen looked embarrassed. ‘I’m sorry I didn’t mean to sound offensive.’

He grinned. ‘You didn’t . . . I was just joking. I’m actually very proud to be the first black lab sergeant, though I’m still on trial in the role under the excellent tutelage of Paul Lawrence.’

‘Is he here with you?’ Pullen asked hopefully.

‘Not today. He’s busy on another job and let me go solo on this one.’

Jane could see Pullen was disappointed, even though she was smiling.

‘Well, I’m pleased to meet you. And so far we have two things in common. I’m the first female forensic pathologist and also on my first solo case.’

‘Well, we’d better look after each other and make sure we don’t mess up. I’ve heard a lot of good things about you from Paul Lawrence and believe me, he doesn’t hand out compliments easily.’

Pullen blushed. ‘I was fortunate to have Prof Martin as my mentor, as were you with DS Lawrence.’

Lloyd nodded. ‘That’s for sure.’

‘I’m just making a coffee – would you like one?’ Jane asked, holding up a cup.

‘I wouldn’t say no,’ he said.

Pullen picked up two of the coffees. ‘I’ll take one through to the radiographer and see how he’s getting on.’

‘She seems a nice lady,’ Lloyd said when Pullen had left the room.

‘She is. Sam’s got a good sense of humour – unlike some pathologists I could name. You still take milk and two sugars?’

‘You’ve a good memory Jane. How have you been keeping?’

‘Fine, thanks. I’m working at Bromley now and studying for the inspectors’ exam.’

‘You’ll pass that with flying colours. I always said you’d go far in the job. Bit of a schlep from your flat in Marylebone to Bromley though, isn’t it?’