Page 7 of The Scene of the Crime

‘How’d that go down?’ Taff asked.

‘Williams said you are both highly respected in the forensic world.’

‘That’s odd because Taff’s always on another planet,’ Diane joked.

‘Even if I don’t get the position, you two are in with a good shout of being on the MSCAN team.’

‘It wouldn’t be the same without you, Draig,’ Taff said, using her Welsh nickname of ‘dragon’ on account of her flaming red hair.

‘Even so, I’d be upset if you two didn’t accept the offer. We’ve analysed my morning enough, so let’s move on to something more important. Do either of you want another drink?’

‘Not for me,’ Taff said. ‘I’ve got a Zoom meeting with the prosecution barrister regarding his footwear evidence in an upcoming murder trial.’ He finished his drink and looked at Jessica. ‘If you don’t get the job, it’ll be a fucking travesty. I’ve never worked with a crime scene manager as good as you. Never doubt your worth or abilities, Jess, and know that me and Di will always have your back, no matter what happens.’

‘Thanks, Taff. What will be will be.’ She gave him a hug.

‘It’s not often you see him being that serious,’ Diane remarked after he’d left the bar.

‘Underneath all the jokes, he’s got a heart of gold,’ Jessica smiled.

‘You want some lunch here or going somewhere else?’ Diane asked.

‘It’s a nice day . . . do you fancy a walk, and we could maybe grab a sandwich along the way?’

‘Sounds like a plan.’

‘Let’s get a sandwich on Villiers Street, then walk to Victoria station,’ Jessica suggested.

‘I can get a train home to Petts Wood from Victoria. What about you?’

‘I’ll get the train to Clapham Junction and then walk home,’ Diane said.

As they strolled through Horse Guards Parade eating their sandwiches, Diane asked about David.

‘He’s hurt his back, but otherwise I think he’s doing OK.’

‘Is he still off the drink and drugs?’

‘It appears so. I haven’t found any hidden vodka bottles in the house for a long time. He pretty much sticks to alcohol-free beer and wine now, but he’s been smoking cannabis. I’ve smelt it on him and in the garage and garden shed.’

‘Did you confront him about it?’

‘I don’t want to get into a row with him. I’m pretty sure it isn’t Skunk again, as he hasn’t exhibited any psychotic behaviour like before.’

Diane knew Skunk was made from unpollinated cannabis plants, which contained higher levels of tetrahydrocannabinol, making it stronger, and also causing nasty side effects, including paranoia and hallucinations. ‘You should talk to him about it. If a neighbour smells it and tells the police, it could harm your career.’

‘You’re right, but I need to tread carefully with David. He often takes advice the wrong way and becomes very defensive.’

‘He’s lucky to have you as a sister. I hope he appreciates how much you’ve done for him since your mother died. I know he took it badly and went off the rails, but he seems to forget it was also a terrible time for you.’

‘David’s not a bad person. He’s just had a tough life and . . .’

‘So have you. You gave up your flat and most of your social life to look after him. You should start looking for a place of your own again, you know.’

‘That’s what David suggested this morning. I don’t mind living with him. It helps me financially, and we get on OK . . . well, most of the time. But if I’m selected as the MSCAN team leader, my salary will increase significantly, enough to get a mortgage for a place of my own. Anyway, what about you, how’s your family?’ Jessica asked, wanting to change the subject.

‘Not bad, thanks. Mum and Dad have been godsends since the divorce, especially with looking after Ellory. He’s five now and starting primary school in September. I’m lucky they livejust around the corner. But if I get the forensic scientist’s role on the MSCAN team, it will undoubtedly mean longer hours and being on call day and night.’

‘Have you told your parents about it?’