FORTY-NINE

10.50 P.M.

‘But what could have happened to drive such a wedge between them?’ Kim asked, after what felt like their tenth trip through a drive-thru. She vaguely remembered seeing this one earlier in the day.

The dynamics of the Lane family were still on her mind. Two members of the family turning up in their investigation had to be more than a coincidence.

‘Nine months ago, they were celebrating a birthday together, and Eric even tried to help her during Covid. What could have happened to ensure they’re now estranged, and Mommy Dearest is positively hostile?’

‘Is it important?’ Bryant asked, covering his yawn with his hand.

‘Sorry if I’m boring you, and I’m not gonna know if it’s important until I know what it is, am I?’ she snapped.

‘We could always go and ask Joanne.’

‘Jeez, Bryant, what kind of monster do you think I am? It’s almost eleven and she’s a single mother of two.’

‘Solid point, although not one that would normally?—’

He stopped speaking as her phone rang.

‘Hey, Stace, tell me you’re ringing with a location for Hiccup and a name and address for our sicko.’

And then we can all go home and get some sleep, she thought.

‘Sorry, boss, but I have news that’s not even remotely good.’

Kim’s heart sank. Thank goodness she’d already arranged for Barney to stay with his best pal Charlie.

‘Go on,’ Kim said, bracing herself.

‘It’s made the local TV news, boss.’

‘Shit,’ Kim said. ‘Okay, we’re on our way back.’

Bryant started the car as she ended the call.

Immediately, her phone started ringing again. She didn’t need to look to see who it was.

She put the phone in her pocket unanswered.

She was sure she’d be seeing him soon enough.