Page 15 of The Truth Will Out

“As in, his patience snapping?”

“Yes, that’s exactly how I would put it.”

“Okay, as the surgery doesn’t appear to be busy right now, would it be possible to speak with the other members of staff, including the other doctors?”

“We might not appear busy to you, but at this time of day, the other doctors are in their offices, calling patients or doing the necessary paperwork to keep the practice going.”

“I appreciate that. We’re prepared to wait until they have some spare time, maybe between patients.”

“I’ll need to check with them to see how busy Doctor Hagan and Doctor Attle are this afternoon. As for the other members of staff, there’s only Lucy, who you met at reception. I can take over from her for ten minutes if you want a quick chat with her next. That’ll give me time to assess the doctors’ diaries.”

“That would be great. Thanks.”

“You can use my office. I’ll ask Lucy to come in and see you. Would you like a drink?”

“No, don’t worry, we’re fine, thanks.”

Ruth left the room.

“Huh, speak for yourself. My mouth is drier than sandpaper right now,” Bob complained.

Sam rolled her eyes. “Maybe we can ask Lucy to make you one after we’ve spoken with her. How’s that?”

“Better. You need to look after your staff or they’re likely to go on strike. Just saying.”

“Poppycock. You do talk a lot of twaddle when you’re pushed into a corner.”

Their conversation was interrupted by a quiet knock on the door.

Sam jumped out of her seat to answer it. “Hi, Lucy. Don’t be shy, come in.”

“Umm… Ruth said that you wanted to have a chat with me.”

“That’s correct. Take a seat.”

“In Ruth’s chair?”

Sam smiled and nodded. “Why not?”

“Have I done something wrong? I’ve never had a reason to have a chat with the police before, either at work or outside.”

Sam raised a hand. “Please, there’s no need for you to be concerned. All we’re doing is making general enquiries. We’re hoping you can help us with our investigation.”

“Investigation? Into what?”

“I take it Ruth hasn’t told you why we’re here today?”

“No, she’s told me nothing. That’s why I’m bricking it, sorry, why I’m worried about seeing you.”

“Please don’t be. You’ve done nothing wrong. Are you aware that Doctor Morgan went missing two days ago?”

“Yes. Ruth and I have been rearranging his appointments in his absence. It’s unlike him to go off the radar without telling either of us where he’s going or when he’ll be back.”

“Unfortunately, we have some bad news to share with you.”

Lucy frowned and sat forward. “What’s that? Has he beenarrested? I know his car was found damaged. Don’t tell me he had an accident and didn’t report it?”

“No, it’s nothing like that. Doctor Morgan was found dead this morning.”