Page 54 of First Blood

Aah, now she understood.

Chapter Forty-Six

‘Sir, we need that case from West Mercia,’ Kim repeated.

DCI Woodward shook his head. ‘And I repeat that we are not going to get it. It would have been one thing trying to get a case handed over from a team in our own borough but from another force entirely…’

‘And I still think Tommy Deeley’s murder is linked to ours.’

He narrowed his gaze. ‘Even after viewing the taped interview earlier today?’

News travelled fast so there was little point denying it. ‘Especially after watching the interview,’ she said. ‘I was literally passing the door, sir,’ she explained. ‘And he offered.’

The fact she couldn’t get access to that case right now bothered her no end. Her instinct told her the murders were related and until someone with some sense ruled out Butcher Bill it would remain where it was.

But she’d heard of cases being wrestled from other forces before. She had to give it her best shot.

‘They’re related, sir. Both victims are paedophiles.’

‘And you know this?’

She nodded. ‘Our victim sexually abused his sister from when she was nine years old, and Marianne was sexually abused by her uncle when he became her legal guardian after the death of her parents.’

He shook his head.

‘Both were mutilated at the genitalia.’

‘Copycat?’

She shook her head. ‘Wasn’t revealed, just like ours.’

He shook his head again.

‘Sir, it’s got to be the same killer.’

‘I’m not sure I disagree with you, Stone, but we’re never going to get the case away from West Mercia and nor should we.’

‘Huh?’

‘It’s already been through two police forces: Warwickshire and West Mercia. If we get involved, CPS will never even take it to court. Way too many chain of evidence and procedure loopholes for the defence to drive a truck through.’

‘But this is like asking me to finish a jigsaw puzzle while keeping half of the pieces in your pocket.’

He nodded. ‘Yes, I’m afraid that does seem to be the case.’

If she didn’t know better she’d think he was enjoying the challenge he’d laid before her.

‘So, Stone, time to see just how creative you and your team can get.’

Chapter Forty-Seven

Marianne took a quick look at herself in the rear-view mirror before getting out of the car. The hair was Nigel’s but the make-up was hers. Not too much and not too bright; a gentle pink lipstick instead of rose red. Enough concealer to disguise the deepening lines beneath her eyes but not cover them completely. Her companion knew exactly how old she was. And just a touch of mascara to frame her blue eyes. He’d always liked it when she wore mascara.

She got out of the car and headed into The Jolly Crispin pub in Upper Gornal, chosen by her as the small establishment formed of brick and black beams sold exceptional beer. He liked good beer.

She spotted Derek Hodge sitting as far away from the bar as he could at a small table behind the fruit machine, as though hiding.

She smiled as she saw two drinks already on the table.