Page 55 of Silent Scream

The woman appeared triumphant.

Kim nodded her agreement as Bryant chose to inspect his nails.

‘You’re right ... but with better tapes we might now be in a position to identify someone responsible for two, perhaps three, murders and we would certainly be closer to ensuring they did not get the opportunity to murder again.’

Kim smiled pleasantly at the woman’s horror-stricken face. ‘But thank you for your time and helpful co-operation.’

Kim strode past the woman and let herself out of the building.

‘You know, Guv, I always knew there was more cause to fear you when you’re smiling.’

‘Get that tape to Stacey. She may know a miracle worker who can offer us a clue.’

‘Will do. Where to now, Guv?’

Kim took the keys from his hand.

‘We’re gonna take the ride of your worst nightmare, Bryant,’ she said, opening her eyes wide. ‘We’re going from the care home to the funeral home.’

Bryant shuddered. ‘Fine. But if you’re driving, just make sure it’s not my last ride, eh?’

Twenty-Eight

‘Seriously, Guv, I’ve heard of ambulance chasing but speeding after a bloody corpse?’

Kim closed the road distance between themselves and the car in front. ‘You heard the undertaker. She only left two hours ago. If we can get there in time we can stop the ceremony and order a post mortem.’

‘The family will be thrilled.’

‘Stop whining.’

‘You realise we’re headed back to the crematorium right next to the site? Ever feel like you’re getting nowhere?’

‘You have no idea,’ she said, sounding the horn at the car in front that was hesitating at a small traffic island. The car turned right.

Kim motored up the Garrett Lane hill and over the canal bridge. Bryant bounced in his seat. She took the fourth exit off the island straight into the crematorium grounds and stopped outside the entrance.

‘Damn, no cars or mourners,’ she observed.

‘Maybe we’re early. Perhaps the funeral party is still at the house.’

Kim said nothing as she got out of the car and headed into the building. A young girl sat on the wall, her head bowed.

Kim continued forward. There was a funeral to crash.

Kim shuddered as she entered the building. Wooden benches lined the space on each side of the walkway. The centre aisle led to a curtained area. Red velvet drapes were pulled back to their resting positions.

To the right was an elevated pulpit. A board behind held three hymn numbers.

Kim felt the soullessness of the place. She didn’t care much for churches but at least they provided balance. There were weddings, christenings; celebrations of a beginning, to equal out loss. This place existed for death alone.

‘May I help you?’ asked a voice without a body.

She and Bryant looked at each other.

‘Jesus Christ,’ Bryant whispered.

‘Not quite,’ said a figure appearing from behind the pulpit.