Pop Goes the Weasel | страница 111

‘No, not yet, but -’

‘Do you think we should persist with it? It’s cripplingly expensive and now that we have a concrete lead…’

‘That’s DI Grace’s call. And yours of course.’

It was a coward’s answer but Charlie felt deeply uncomfortable discussing the running of the investigation behind Helen’s back. Harwood nodded, as if Charlie had actually said something quite profound, then sat down on a table edge.

‘And how are you getting on with Helen?’

‘Fine now. We’ve had a good talk and things are… fine.’

‘I’m glad because, strictly between me and you, I was worried. Helen had some very robust opinions about your return to Southampton Central. Opinions that I felt were unfair. I’m pleased that you’ve proved her wrong and that the old team is back together again.’

Charlie nodded, unsure what the appropriate response was.

‘And I hear you’ve been made temporary DS, whilst Tony is busy. How are you finding that?’

‘I’m enjoying it, of course.’

‘Would you be interested in making it a permanent promotion?’

The question took Charlie by surprise. Immediately memories of her conversation with Steve reared up. In truth, they had been plaguing her all morning.

‘I’m taking it one step at a time. I have a husband and maybe one day…’

‘Children?’

Charlie nodded.

‘It doesn’t have to be a choice, you know, Charlie. You can do both – take it from me. You just need to be clear with everyone and then… well, for a talented female officer like you the sky is the limit.’

‘Thank you, Ma’am.’

‘Come and talk to me whenever you need to. I like you, Charlie, and I want you to make the right decisions. I see great things for you.’

Shortly afterwards, Harwood departed. She had a lunch date with the police commissioner and it didn’t do to be late. Charlie watched her go, deeply unnerved. What game was Harwood playing? What was her role in it?

And what did it mean for Helen?

The team spread over Southampton, searching for Lyra. North, south, east and west, leaving no stone unturned. Extra uniform and community support officers had been drafted in and, led by CID detectives, they visited brothels, mother-and-baby drop-ins, health clinics, social security offices, Accident and Emergency departments – clutching their e-fits and appealing for information. If Lyra was hiding in Southampton, they would surely find her now.

Helen led the hunt in the northern reaches of the city, firmly believing that the killer would operate from somewhere familiar and safe. She kept her radio volume turned up high, hoping that at any moment it would squawk into life with news of a breakthrough. She didn’t care who got Lyra, didn’t care who brought her in – she just wanted this to be over.