Dead Perfect
NOELLE HOLTEN

One More Chapter

a division of HarperCollinsPublishers Ltd

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London SE1 9GF

www.harpercollins.co.uk

First published in Great Britain by HarperCollinsPublishers 2020

Copyright © Noelle Holten 2020

Cover design by HarperCollinsPublishers Ltd 2020

Cover images © Shutterstock.com

Noelle Holten asserts the moral right to be identified as the author of this work.

A catalogue copy of this book is available from the British Library.

This is a work of fiction. Every reasonable attempt to verify the facts against available documentation has been made.

All rights reserved under International and Pan-American Copyright Conventions. By payment of the required fees, you have been granted the non-exclusive, non-transferable right to access and read the text of this e-book on screen. No part of this text may be reproduced, transmitted, down-loaded, decompiled, reverse engineered, or stored in or introduced into any information storage and retrieval system, in any form or by any means, whether electronic or mechanical, now known or hereinafter invented, without the express written permission of HarperCollins.

Source ISBN: 9780008383664

Ebook Edition © 2020 ISBN: 9780008383657

Version: 2020-07-20

Table of Contents

Cover

Title Page

Copyright

Dedication

Prologue

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Chapter 32

Chapter 33

Chapter 34

Chapter 35

Chapter 36

Chapter 37

Chapter 38

Chapter 39

Chapter 40

Chapter 41

Chapter 42

Chapter 43

Chapter 44

Chapter 45

Chapter 46

Chapter 47

Chapter 48

Chapter 49

Chapter 50

Chapter 51

Chapter 52

Chapter 53

Chapter 54

Chapter 55

Chapter 56

Chapter 57

Chapter 58

Chapter 59

Chapter 60

Chapter 61

Chapter 62

Chapter 63

Chapter 64

Chapter 65

Chapter 66

Chapter 67

Chapter 68

Chapter 69

Chapter 70

Chapter 71

Chapter 72

Chapter 73

Chapter 74

Chapter 75

Chapter 76

Chapter 77

Chapter 78

Chapter 79

Chapter 80

Chapter 81

Chapter 82

Chapter 83

Chapter 84

Chapter 85

Chapter 86

Chapter 87

Chapter 88

Chapter 89

Chapter 90

Chapter 91

Chapter 92

Chapter 93

Chapter 94

Chapter 95

Chapter 96

Chapter 97

Chapter 98

Chapter 99

Chapter 100

Chapter 101

Chapter 102

Chapter 103

Chapter 104

Acknowledgements

A Note from Noelle

About the Author

Also by Noelle Holten

About the Publisher

For my pops – Thomas Holten (July 1943 – Oct 2019)

Missing you every day.

Prologue

Tap.

Tap, tap.

Tap.

He watched, eyes glued to the screen.

It was over so quickly. Everything had to be so precise.

He held the small hammer and orbitoclast in his hand. It hadn’t been easy to get these. He carefully mirrored the images that appeared on the laptop. Something had gone wrong the first time and he couldn’t let that happen again. He restarted the video, tightened the vice and began once more.

Tap.

Tap, tap.

Tap.

Practice makes perfect.

Chapter 1

The Major and Organised Crime Department office at Stafford Police Station had never felt so claustrophobic. DC Maggie Jamieson tried to catch her breath. She prided herself on being able to remain objective but when something personal happened, her judgements were clouded, and she couldn’t let that happen now.

During a past case – the Raven case – Maggie’s friend and colleague, Dr Kate Moloney, had received sinister gifts and notes. Markston Police Station had taken the items and logged a complaint but with no trace evidence and no direct threats, the matter hadn’t been pursued. Maggie thought Kate should take more care in protecting herself, but Kate wouldn’t listen. So when her boss, DS Nathan Wright, relayed the message, ‘Just had a call come in. Police are already on the scene. Body of a female has been found. Initial description sounds just like your friend, Dr Moloney. I’m so sorry, Maggie …’ his words hit her like a brick to the face.

This can’t be real. He could be wrong. But Maggie knew that Nathan wouldn’t have said it if he didn’t believe the victim could be Kate. Something more must have been said in the conversation. He knew about the stalking and had expressed his own concerns at the time. Nathan also knew that although Dr Moloney had been with the Domestic Abuse and Homicide team for only a little over a year, Maggie had fond feelings for her that went beyond the realm of friendship. He was the only person she’d shared this with.

Time stood still as Maggie processed the words in her head. She stared at her colleague, willing the words to be something different. But she knew they wouldn’t change.

Keep it together, Maggie. She pulled herself into action.

‘Well why are we standing around here? Let’s go! I’ll call Markston on the way.’ Maggie’s head was spinning as she signalled to Nathan to follow. She grabbed her coat from the back of her chair and checked she had her mobile in her pocket. They ran to the pool car and she didn’t bother to argue with him as to who would be driving. Her main concern right now was locating Kate.

As she fumbled with the seatbelt, Maggie took slow, deep breaths. It wouldn’t do anyone any good if she was panicking. She reached into her pocket and, with shaking hands, scrolled through her contacts until she found Markston Police Station Domestic Abuse and Homicide Unit – the DAHU. She pressed connect.

It felt like forever before someone answered.

‘Domestic Abuse and Homicide Unit. PC Kat Everett speaking. How can I help?’

‘Kat, it’s Maggie. Is Kate there?’

There was a pause before Kat returned to the line.

‘Hey. No. She’s not in her office. Do you want me to take a message?’

‘Is she due in today?’

‘Hang on …’

Maggie heard a muffled voice call out,

‘Does anyone know if Kate is due in today? Maggie’s looking for her.’

Seconds passed but it seemed like hours.

‘Sorry, can’t help. No one knows where she is. Has something happened? Your voice sounds strange …’

Although she herself had automatically made the connection, Maggie wasn’t sure how much Kate had told her colleagues about the stalking situation. She didn’t want to upset anyone unnecessarily, so she decided she’d hold back on what had been discovered. It would help her keep her own feelings in check.

‘No. I’m just looking for her. Has she mentioned anything out of the ordinary lately? Actually, don’t worry about that; if she does happen to come in, can you ask her to call me right away?’ Maggie noticed Nathan giving her sideways glances, but he didn’t interrupt.

‘She’s not said anything to me, but I’ll pass on the message. Are you sure there’s—’

Maggie didn’t let Kat finish her sentence and pressed the end call button. She knew Kat could tell something was happening, but there was no time to mess about with causal conversation. Kate was her priority now.

‘Well?’ Nathan remained focused on the road and Maggie was grateful he was so calm as she wasn’t sure she could handle her blood pressure rising any further.

‘She’s not at work and no one there knows where she is. I’m going to try her mobile again.’

Maggie found Kate’s number and waited as the phone rang once.

Twice.

Then three more times before voicemail kicked in. Shit! ‘Hi Kate. It’s Maggie here. Could you do me a favour and call me back as soon as you get this?’

‘We’re nearly there. Let’s not get ahead of ourselves until we see the body, OK? I know how you feel about Kate … beyond your working relationship. Are you sure you’re OK?’ Nathan’s voice was soft and she appreciated his concern, but he seemed to have forgotten that he was the one who’d contributed to her anxiety.

‘I’m fine. You’re the one who has me so riled up. Why did you have to say it looks like Kate?’ Maggie rubbed her temples, and seeing the strain on Nathan’s face she instantly realized he regretted his words.

‘I know. I’m sorry. It’s just that with the stalking incidents, and then the description of the victim, it was out of my mouth before I could stop myself.’

Nathan may not have intended to upset her, but her heart was racing, and her chest felt like it was being held in a vice.

Why didn’t I push the stalking incident with Markston? If something has happened to Kate, I will never forgive myself. Maggie didn’t have a lot of friends and she was fiercely loyal to those she did have.

Nathan veered left sharply as they headed down Queensway Lane towards the village of Hartley. They had been told only the bare minimum: the body had been found in a park, face down, by the playground where the local kids played. Two teenagers had stumbled across it when they’d cut through the park to reach the bus stop. As they approached the area, Maggie could see that the forensic pathologist, Dr Fiona Blake, had also just arrived with her assistant, Charlie. She was putting on protective clothing, and Nathan parked behind her vehicle.

He had barely stopped the car before Maggie jumped out and rushed towards Dr Blake. ‘Hey, Fiona. Have you heard any details on the identification of the body?’

‘Hi Maggie.’ She looked past Maggie and waved to Nathan. ‘No. All I know is that it looks to be a young female, long black hair. Black boots and a long black skirt with a black and white striped top. No personal items were found near the body.’

Maggie tensed. The description could easily be Kate. The clothing had a familiar ring to it.

Dr Blake must have sensed her fear. ‘What’s up, Maggie? Is there something I need to know?’ She handed Maggie and Nathan a suit each and nodded. ‘Get those on you while we chat.’

Maggie took a deep breath as she put on the required forensic suit and waited for Charlie to leave before speaking. ‘Did you know that Dr Moloney is being stalked? The description you’ve just given sounds exactly like an outfit I remember Kate wearing. No one knows where she is at the moment.’

‘Oh. I’m sorry, I know you’ve worked closely with Dr Moloney but you know my motto: no assumptions. Let’s see what we have first. Are you going to be OK?’ She squeezed Maggie’s arm.

‘Yeah, I’ll be fine.’ Maggie hoped her colleagues believed her. The truth was, she felt anything but fine. Her stomach tensed, and she felt like she could throw up at any moment.

‘Shall we get to it then?’ Dr Blake gestured towards the crime-scene cordon that had been set up around the perimeter.

With each step she took, Maggie fought to contain her feelings. As they signed in, Maggie looked over her colleagues’ shoulders and caught a glimpse of the body.

Black combat boots. Exactly like those Kate wore every day. The victim lay face down. The grass was soggy under their feet and a mist hovered over the grass, shrouding the body like a secret waiting to be uncovered. The crime-scene tent was being erected and Maggie couldn’t tear her eyes away.

A scream caught in her throat as she grabbed Nathan’s shoulder to stop herself from falling.

Chapter 2

The air felt thick as they headed towards the crime-scene tent, her feet like cement blocks, each step a struggle to take. Maggie looked down and stared at the back of the corpse. The clothes had an air of familiarity. The body shape matched and the hair …

Maggie could hear voices, but they sounded as if they were muffled. She felt a hand on her arm. ‘Maggie. Maggie. Are you sure you’re OK?’ She pulled herself together and Dr Blake released her arm. She didn’t want to risk being taken off the case because she let her emotions get the best of her.

‘Yes. Sorry. I just needed a minute. I’m fine. Totally fine.’ Maggie took a deep breath.

Dr Blake went over to join Charlie at the body while Nathan and Maggie stood back and watched. The few CSIs on site were busy collecting any evidence in the vicinity. Maggie knew she should be looking around, taking in the scene and talking to the witnesses, but her eyes couldn’t leave the body.

A brief look from Dr Blake and Maggie knew that the victim was about to be turned over.

‘On three, please.’ Dr Blake reached across and grasped the female’s shoulder. ‘One. Two. Three …’

A lone tear escaped Maggie’s eye as she stared at the porcelain face.

She felt a hand touch her shoulder and give a gentle squeeze. ‘It’s not Kate, Maggie. It’s not her.’ Nathan held her for another moment, making sure the reality had sunk in. She had registered the fact that although it was not her friend before them, it was a female who bore a strong resemblance to her.

‘Dr Blake. Is there anything you can tell us?’ Maggie shook her hands out.

‘There are no lacerations or stab wounds. No blood around the body.’ Lifting the victim’s arm, Dr Blake pulled back the sleeves. ‘She was restrained at some point.’

Maggie bent down and looked at the bruising and redness around the wrists.

‘Her hair looks unnatural. I think it may have been dyed black. But I won’t be able to confirm that until we get back to the lab. There don’t appear to be any head wounds either, but look at the bruising around the eyes. I’m curious as to why the eyes and mouth have been sewn shut.’ She leaned back and looked at the woman. ‘There’s a doll-like quality to all this, don’t you think? At the moment, I can’t tell you anything more. I’ll have the cause of death and more details, once the post-mortem is completed.’ Dr Blake stood. ‘Right then. This isn’t a natural death by any means, so I’d best get back to the mortuary and prepare. I’ll be in touch soon.’ Dr Blake left. Maggie’s attention was drawn to Charlie who gently moved the woman’s hair away from her face.

‘She looks familiar.’ Charlie looked up at Maggie.

‘She does …’ Maggie’s brow creased. ‘I’d best let you get on with things.’

Maggie left Charlie to finish up and took in the crime scene. The body had been placed face down near a tree and only a few feet away from the footpath. Although it didn’t appear staged, the positioning was neat, almost careful. Maggie wondered if the killer had hidden her face because he felt remorse or guilt at what he’d done. This wasn’t a large park, however; it wasn’t fenced off either. Instead, it sat in the middle of the village like a grassy island. Trees and shrubberies were scattered throughout and, intermingled with flower beds, added some privacy. The killer could have entered from any point. This wasn’t going to be easy.

‘Can you go and talk to the witnesses?’ Nathan pointed at the two teenagers sitting on a bench. ‘I’m going to speak with the Duty SIO and see if they can tell me anything more.’

Maggie nodded and headed towards the two boys.

‘Hi. I’m DC Maggie Jamieson and I wondered if I could have a brief chat with you both.’ The boys’ eyes were glazed, but they nodded their heads in unison.

‘I know this must have been a shock. I promise it won’t be long and you can get going. OK?’

More nods.

‘Can you talk me through what you were doing before, at the time of, and just after you discovered the body?’

The boy in the striped shirt spoke first. ‘We were delivering the morning papers. We always cut through here to get over to the other side of the village. I do one side of the street and he does the other.’ He pointed at the other boy, although he continued to stare straight ahead. ‘We just saw … I mean … we thought she was drunk or something.’

‘Take a breath. I know this must be difficult. Why did you call the police if you thought she was drunk?’ Maggie bit the top of her pen.

The boys looked at each other. This time, the one in the black shirt answered. He was blushing. ‘We shouted out to her … and when she didn’t look up or answer … we went over and … and …’

‘Look, you’re not going to get in trouble. So why don’t you just tell me.’ Maggie reached out and touched his shoulder.

‘I lifted her arm. When it just dropped to the ground, I touched her hand … It was cold. I didn’t know she was dead – but I thought she was in some sort of trouble …’ The black-shirted boy sank down.

‘OK, thanks. Did you see anyone else in the park? Any strange vehicles in the area you didn’t recognize?’

‘No. Just us and … her.’

‘OK. My colleagues over there are going to want you to go down to the station and make a formal statement. How old are you boys?’

‘Sixteen.’ They answered simultaneously.

‘Well, it will be up to you whether you want to contact your parents, or we can arrange for an appropriate adult if you’d feel more comfortable having someone with you, though given your age it’s not necessary. Thanks for your time. Don’t go anywhere before speaking to the officer over there, OK?’ The boys nodded and Maggie walked over to Nathan.

‘What did they have to say?’ Nathan was looking around.

‘Not a thing. They touched her though. I’ll let forensics know. They are shaken up. Pretty sure they never expected to stumble across this on their paper route.’

‘There’s not much coverage around here, so whoever did this was pretty sure they wouldn’t be seen or they’re very cocky.’ Nathan squinted as he looked at the various points of entry.

Maggie followed his eyeline. ‘Do you think the killer wanted her to be found?’

‘She doesn’t appear to have been posed. Looks more like a dump and run.’ Nathan started walking towards the car. ‘You coming back with me or sticking around?’

‘I’ll go with you. I still haven’t heard from Kate and I’ll feel a lot better when I know where she is. I’d also like to go over the evidence from her stalker; I think it’s still at Markston. It may be just a coincidence, but the victim looked a lot like Kate, so there may be something in those letters or gifts that were sent to her.’

‘Better safe than sorry, right?’

Before she could answer Nathan, she felt the vibration of her mobile ringing against her leg. Her hands trembled as she pulled the phone out of her pocket and looked at the screen.

It wasn’t Kate …

Chapter 3

He saw her. He wanted her. He’d have her. She didn’t even look his way when he brushed past her as she walked briskly towards her flat, swinging a white plastic bag in her hand. Milk, he guessed, for her morning coffee. The streetlamps flickered, they’d soon be off when the sun rose in the sky.

He doubled back.

She was stunning with that long hair. Silky. He could almost feel it dancing between his fingertips. Imagine the shimmer of each strand in the light as he brushed it.

He crossed the road. Over to the alleyway. Watching her.

Soon, sweetheart. Soon we’ll be together …

He’d been watching her for a while now. She was perfect. Or she would be.

Looking at his watch his excitement grew. She’d be ready now. He counted the seconds down. Four. Three. Two. One …

The door opened.

Right on time.

Her routines never seemed to falter. He’d have to talk to her about that. It wasn’t safe. She should know better.

She stood at the top of the steps straightening her jacket before she bounced down each one, onto the pathway and headed towards the top of the street, where she would turn left at the end of the road.

He stepped out from the alleyway and followed, keeping his distance, while also keeping her in his sights.

He caught a glimpse of her jacket as she headed through the gates and into the park. She always cut through the park on her way to the bus stop. It was a quiet morning. No one about – but he still would have to keep his wits about him. The police would be busy with the last one.

His pace quickened, and his heart raced. It was nearly time. He glanced in the direction of his car – still there. No traffic wardens out and about at this time either.

He reached into his pocket and pulled out the knife. Holding it in his left hand, he came up behind her and placed his right arm around her neck. He held the tip of the knife at her back.

She gasped and before she could scream, he whispered in her ear, ‘Do not make a sound. If you scream, I will push this knife straight through you. I don’t want to hurt you. I just want you to come with me. You will do as you’re told, or you will suffer the consequences. Do you understand?’

He felt her head attempt to move up and down. He took it that she understood.

‘Good. Now come with me.’ He marched her towards his car. ‘Put your hands behind your back.’ His arm remained tight across her throat. She did as he asked.

He removed the semi-prepared tie cable from his pocket and pulled it tightly, securing it around her small, fragile wrists. He turned her around so he could look into her eyes.

‘Now, without making a sound, we’re going to go to the boot of my car.’ He grabbed her arms and pulled her towards him.

She was shaking her head now. Eyes wide. Cheeks tear-stained. ‘Please. Not the boot. I’ve done as you asked. I promise, I won’t scream.’

He pondered her request for a moment. She seemed genuine, but he had been fooled before and couldn’t risk it.

He pressed the button lock on the boot and it popped open.

‘Get in.’

‘Please. I’ll do anything. Don’t put me in there.’ Her eyes pleaded with him. She looked so innocent … but no.

‘Get. In. NOW.’ He shoved her this time. He picked up the gaffer tape and wrapped her legs tightly. Biting off a smaller piece, he covered her mouth.

The look of terror in her eyes surprised him for the briefest of moments.

‘It won’t be for long, I promise. Soon we’ll be just where we need to be. Is that OK? Do you mind if I call you Kate?’

Chapter 4

Nathan had headed straight to DI Rutherford’s office when they got back. He would be updating her on the new case. Meanwhile, Maggie filled PC Bethany Lambert in on what they had found and asked her to contact Markston Police Station to see if she could find out more about Kate’s stalking complaint. Bethany’s small frame was swamped by the large chair she sat in. Often it was only the clacking of her keyboard that alerted Maggie that she was in the office.

‘Can you also see if we can get a hold of that evidence to compare it to anything we find from the crime scene today?’ Although the cases may not be related, Maggie had a bad feeling and following her instinct, along with over ten years’ experience as a detective investigating cases, often proved right.

‘Do you think there’s some connection?’ Bethany turned around.

‘I’m not sure. But we’re not ruling anything out at this stage. Did Kate happen to call here while we were out?’

‘Sorry, no messages at all.’

‘OK. Thanks. Let me know what you find out from Markston.’

‘Will do. Do you know if we’re going to get any help with this case? We’re a bit thin on the ground now that Nathan is Acting DS.’

‘I haven’t heard anything yet. I’ll ask him when he’s done with DI Rutherford. But given it’s one victim, I suspect the higher-ups aren’t going to give us any specialist help. We’ll probably be linked up with the field team again. Soon they’ll be honorary detectives in the MOCD.’ Maggie smiled.

She headed to her desk, threw her coat over her chair, and sat. Booting up her computer, she dug her mobile out of her pocket and looked at the screen. No missed calls.

Kate Moloney, where the hell are you?

Although the victim wasn’t Kate, Maggie was still worried about her friend. She looked at her watch; only a few more hours before she could head home. She’d stop by Kate’s on the way back.

‘Right, guys. We don’t have a name for our Jane Doe as of yet, but let’s not let that stop us from setting up the incident room and start putting together what we do know.’

Nathan really was taking his new role seriously as Acting DS. He had accepted the position during their last case and if Maggie was honest, it suited him. She stood and followed Bethany and Nathan to the room that would be used for the main investigation.

‘I know we’re short of hands on the ground, so I’ve asked DI Rutherford, but with the scope of the investigation at the moment, we’ll just have to make do for the time being.’

Bethany tutted.

‘I tried.’ Nathan shrugged. He went to the front and cleared the whiteboard. ‘What do we know?’

‘Unidentified female. She looked between twenty-five and thirty-five years old. Caucasian. Goth appearance. No ID or valuables located nearby and she was face down when she was found in Granger Park, in the village of Hartley.’ Maggie processed the information, making sure she hadn’t missed anything. ‘Victim was found in the early hours by two teenaged males out delivering the local newspaper. They didn’t see or hear anything on their walk to the park. They’ll be coming in at some point to complete a formal statement.’ Nathan paused.

‘Maggie mentioned a possible link to Dr Moloney. Do you think we should be including that? From what she’s just said, the victim does sound an awful lot like Kate.’ Bethany stared at the board and looked like she was about to add something, before Nathan jumped in.

‘Have we had any contact from Kate yet?’ Nathan looked at Maggie.

She shook her head.

‘For now. I’ll make a note of it, but I don’t want us to start going down one avenue and get lost in a bunch of what-ifs. Agreed?’ Nathan’s brows furrowed, and Maggie knew there was no point in arguing. Truth was, without any tangible evidence, they had nothing to go on, other than the victim and Kate sharing a likeness.

Maggie looked around and realized DI Rutherford had not joined them. ‘Where’s the guv?’

‘She had a meeting so asked me to lead the briefing. I’ll be updating her later. Anything else to add at this point?’

‘I can’t think of anything else. We’ll need forensics and the details from the door-to-door enquiries in Hartley before we’ll be able to add anything else.’ Maggie looked through her notes. Nothing else stood out.

‘Well, it’s a start. Bethany, can you liaise with the Misper Unit and see if anyone matching our vic’s description has been reported missing recently? Also, collate the information from the door-to-door enquiries as they come in. Maggie, I’d like you to contact Dr Blake and see if she can tell us anything at this stage. I’ve got to put something together for the press but can be disturbed if need be.’

The team dispersed, heading back to their desks to start their designated tasks. Something was niggling at Maggie’s mind; she just couldn’t figure out what it was … yet.

Chapter 5

Maggie picked up the handset and held it between her ear and shoulder as she dialled the number for Dr Blake. It took nearly ten minutes before she was finally put through to the pathologist.

‘Wow. That took ages, Fiona. How are you?’

‘Yes. Sorry about that. We have a lot of agency staff here at the moment. Half these people don’t know their heads from their arseholes. I’d be better off answering the phone myself! But I’m guessing you didn’t call to hear me rant. What can I do for you?’

‘I know it’s a long shot, but do you have anything for us on the victim?’ Maggie held the phone slightly away from her ear in case Dr Blake decided to let off more steam. She didn’t think her ear could take anymore.

‘I know I’m fast, but not that fast. I don’t really have much to tell you as this one isn’t as straightforward as a stabbing or strangulation. Other than two black eyes, and bruising where she was bound, I haven’t been able to distinguish the cause of death just yet. There are no lacerations or visible wounds. I’ve ordered some further tests and a scan to see if it was an overdose or something not visible to the human eye. Of course, it may be more obvious once I get a chance to do the full post-mortem, but as she has only recently arrived, I haven’t had time to prep for that yet. I can tell you that she was bathed before being disposed of – probably to get rid of any trace evidence. I can’t really offer you anything further at this time.’

‘Thanks. I knew I was grasping at straws, but just thought we might get something to kickstart the investigation.’

‘I’ll be sure to forward all my findings as soon as I have them. Speak later.’

Nathan popped his head out of his office and signalled for Maggie to come over. ‘Have you heard anything from forensics yet?’

‘I just got off the phone with Dr Blake. She doesn’t have anything substantial at the moment, but did say that there were no discernible trauma wounds on the body. She’s running further tests and will be starting the post-mortem soon. Do you think the victim could have died of a pre-existing condition before our killer had a chance to do anything?’ This had been niggling Maggie earlier; the injuries at the outset hadn’t looked like they would necessarily kill a person. No visible head wounds. No knife or gunshot wounds. Just a lot of bruising and some abrasions.

‘Interesting point. Maybe that’s why she ended up in the park – because our killer hadn’t been expecting her to die so soon.’

‘Maggie! Nathan! Can you come here for a minute?’ Bethany was holding her hand over the telephone handset.

‘I’m just on the phone with Missing Persons and they advised that a twenty-eight-year-old female—’

Bethany looked down on to her desk where her notepad sat open, ‘name of … Tracy Holloway was reported missing five weeks ago by her parents. She was on her way to their house but never showed up and she would usually call if her plans had changed.’ Bethany returned to her call with the Misper Unit.

‘OK so we may have ID’d our vic. Let’s wait until Bethany is off the phone and has a picture and address details.’

Maggie’s mobile phone rang before Nathan had the opportunity to finish his sentence. She held a hand up to stop him from continuing before answering.

‘DC Jamieson speaking.’ Maggie’s shoulders sagged with relief. ‘Kate. Holy shit, where have you been?’

Chapter 6

‘What in the world is all the fuss about, Maggie? I’ve had everyone under the sun ringing me and leaving messages to say that it was urgent I return your call.’

‘Where are you now? And why the hell weren’t you answering your phone?’ Maggie knew she sounded stern, but the sense of relief flooding over her made her feel frustrated at the fact that Kate had taken so long to return her calls. Although Maggie didn’t know much about Kate’s life previous to working with her in the DAHU, she felt a strong bond with her which at times she couldn’t explain and this, along with her attraction towards the criminal psychologist, made her overprotective.

‘I forgot my mobile and left it at home by accident. You know what I’m like with this thing. So, are you going to tell me what the panic is about?’ Kate sounded exasperated.

‘I will. I think it’s better I tell you in person though, as there are a few things I’d like to talk to you about. Are you in for the rest of the night?’ Maggie hoped Kate would be free.

‘I am. What time should I expect you?’

‘I’m just going to have a word with Nathan and then I’ll shoot over to yours. And Kate …’

‘Yes?’

‘Do me a favour and make sure you have your phone with you at all times from now on. I know you aren’t taking the stalking situation seriously, but I think you should still be cautious. You nearly gave me a heart attack.’

Kate laughed. ‘OK. I’ll do my best. Anyway, there haven’t been any more letters or gifts delivered; perhaps I was just being paranoid. Looking forward to hearing what all your drama is about.’

Maggie rolled her eyes, knowing that Kate would probably carry on as normal, so it would be up to her to keep an eye on her friend. They said their goodbyes, and Maggie knocked on Nathan’s door.

‘I take it that was Kate on the phone then?’ Nathan looked up from the computer monitor.

‘Yes. I can’t even begin to explain how relieved I am. I told her I would stop by hers shortly. Are you OK with me discussing details of the case with her at this stage?’ Maggie leaned into the doorway.

‘Why wouldn’t I be? She may be consulting on the case at some point.’

‘I only ask because of the victim’s similarity to Kate. If she does turn out to be the target, or if this is somehow related to her, wouldn’t it be a conflict of interest?’

‘Yes, but for now, other than the physical appearance, there’s nothing to suggest there is a link, so Maggie, try and get as much out of Kate as you can in case it does turn out to be connected. The more background we can get now, the better.’

‘Sure thing. I’ll see you tomorrow.’ She closed his door behind her as she left.

Maggie collected her coat and bag and, leaving the office, she headed to Stafford train station. The fresh air felt good in her lungs. Walking through the park, Maggie realized she would have to be careful with what she told Kate, as she didn’t want to make her unnecessarily afraid or compromise the current case in any way. If she could collate some features on the various stalker types and look further at common patterns of escalation, she might be able to gather enough information to draw up a list of people they already know who fit the profile. Maggie also thought it would be a good idea to speak to Probation to see if they had anyone on their books they were concerned about. The more details they had, the better.

While she was at Kate’s, she would also check Kate’s security. If Kate’s stalker had now turned killer, they wouldn’t give him the opportunity to make a move.

Chapter 7

He hummed quietly to himself as he brushed her long, black hair.

The song in the background was perfect. One of his favourites. ‘Living Doll’.

‘Just like you, sweetheart.’ He smiled.

Glassy blue eyes stared at him – loving eyes. She wants to be here, he’s sure of it.

He took her hand in his. Still warm. Turning it over, so it was palm-side up, he placed two fingertips gently in the groove on her forearm, down from the fold of the wrist, and then he felt it.

A faint pulse.

He bent over and kissed her gently on her forehead. Brushing her hair behind her ear, he whispered, ‘Can you hear me now, princess?’

No response.

‘Don’t be shy.’ He held back his frustration. ‘Squeeze my hand if you can hear me …’

Was that a twitch he felt?

The excitement mounted, and he hoped he hadn’t imagined it.

Her head lolled forward and he had to help her straighten up. He placed the brush on the side table and lifted up a picture. He held the snapshot beside the woman in front of him and looked over her shoulder into the mirror.

‘The likeness is uncanny, don’t you think?’ He waited for her response.

Then he saw it. Her eyelid. A slight twitch. And he smiled.

She would have to do for now. Practice makes perfect.

His first attempt had been a complete failure. She’d died immediately once the procedure had been performed, and so he’d had to start again. He wished he could have been there when they found her body.

He would have loved to have seen the look on the police’s faces when they realized.

He turned his attention back to the woman before him. ‘Now, Kate, hair up or down?’

Chapter 8

Dr Kate Moloney felt unnerved when she got off the phone with Maggie.

Something in the way Maggie spoke didn’t feel right and she had counted down the hours waiting for her to arrive. She checked her locks and looked out of the window so many times her neighbours probably thought she was up to something. But she couldn’t help herself.

Although they seemed to have stopped now, Kate wondered if the creepy notes on black paper and the unwanted gifts of dead flowers, pig-skinned rings and vials of liquid that looked like blood had been a message or just a harmless prank. She had no doubt Maggie would be giving her a good bollocking for leaving her phone at home and, given her situation, she should know better. It reminded her of some unpleasantness she’d had in London. Although nothing had come of the harassing calls, they had really affected her emotional wellbeing. She had worked hard to forget that time in her life and she wasn’t going back there again.

The truth was, mobile phones and social media were two things that Kate tried to avoid. She’d never liked the idea that she could be reached or should be available at any time day or night, and she absolutely despised the negative vibe she felt from social media most of the time. Kate only had a small circle of friends and she wasn’t interested in knowing about other people’s day-to-day goings on, just as much as she was sure they weren’t interested in hers.

She felt restless. Looking at the clock again, she knew she still had to wait a little longer before Maggie arrived. She plonked down on her couch, picked up the remote, and flicked through the channels until she reached the news.

More politics. Something else Kate couldn’t be bothered with. Just as she was about to turn off the television a reporter mentioned the next village over, Hartley. Kate turned up the volume.

‘Early this morning two teenagers discovered the body of an unidentified female. Police have not released many details at this time, but the woman is young, described as goth-like in appearance and was found face down in Granger Park, Hartley. Police have confirmed that they suspect foul play and have launched a murder inquiry. We’ll bring you news on this story as soon as more details come to light …’

Kate switched off the television and threw the remote as if it was on fire. A shiver ran down her spine.

Was this why Maggie was coming over? Is that what the panic was about? Had Maggie thought the victim had been her? It sounded ridiculous, even with what had been happening with the strange gifts she had been receiving and she dismissed it immediately.

But Kate’s fear soon turned to fury. She was angry that Maggie hadn’t given her more details over the phone. Although Maggie was a work colleague, Kate had felt a friendship was growing. Wasn’t that what friends did? Keep each other in the loop? Tell them if they should be worried? Kate could feel her insecurities return as she went around and checked the locks again.

She quietly opened the door to her bedroom. She double checked that Salem, her cat, was in, as he’d have to use his litter box tonight. Kate wasn’t going to risk leaving the window open for him.

What am I doing? This probably has nothing to do with me. She clenched her hands as she realized she was letting her paranoia take over. The last contact she’d had from her stalker had been an email to her work account. He knew she had been to the police about the items and wasn’t happy. Was he punishing others until he could get to her? No, that couldn’t be it. There was nothing to say the murder was even connected to her and now she was drawing ridiculous conclusions. She needed a distraction and headed to the kitchen to make sure Salem’s litter box was clean.

So focused was she on her task that she jumped when she heard the thumps on her door. She walked down the hall and peered through the peephole. Maggie. Kate unbolted the door, removed the chains and before her friend could say anything, Kate spoke what was on her mind.

‘Why didn’t you tell me that a female was murdered today – who just so happens to look a lot like me? What are you playing at, Maggie?’ She stood firm in the doorway.

Maggie didn’t respond. Instead she pulled Kate into a tight hug, and Kate immediately started to laugh before gently pushing Maggie away.

‘Christ, we’re a dramatic pair, aren’t we? Come in, sit down, and tell me what the hell’s been going on.’

Chapter 9

Maggie couldn’t help herself. The minute she saw Kate a wave of relief washed over her. Generally not one for displaying her emotions, she gave in and pulled her friend close for a hug.

‘I’ll make us a coffee then, shall I?’ Kate stepped aside and let Maggie into her flat.

Maggie nodded and then felt a little foolish for being so emotional. Her affection for Kate was growing but she couldn’t let her personal feelings overshadow a case.

After Kate had unleashed her anger, Maggie could finally breathe knowing that at least she was safe. Maggie wanted to keep a clear head so had refused the first beverage offer of a glass of wine – though if she was honest, that was what she really wanted. Something to take the edge off. Maybe later.

Kate returned from the kitchen and handed Maggie a large mug. ‘Right then. I want you to tell me everything and please,’ Kate gave her a stern look, ‘don’t leave anything out to spare my feelings.’

‘What do you know so far?’ Maggie didn’t want to frighten Kate into believing that she was a target – even if that was what Maggie was beginning to believe.

‘I only saw what was on the news. What freaked me out was the description of the victim and then your panic calls to me today. I was beginning to believe something more sinister was happening. Am I wrong, Maggie?’

‘I don’t know. And that’s my honest answer. We think we have ID’d the victim through the Misper database, but we’re waiting to speak to the family first. When I heard the initial description of the victim, I did think it was you – Nathan did too. The outfit the woman was dressed in could have been straight out of your wardrobe. When I couldn’t get a hold of you and no one seemed to know where you were, my fear was ramped up tenfold. Although the team are not treating your stalking complaint as directly linked to this murder, they haven’t dismissed it either.’

The colour from Kate’s usually pale face drained even further. ‘That’s a lot to take in. Do you know anything else about the victim?’

‘Not as yet. Between us, Dr Blake has asked for further tests to establish the cause of death as there were no wounds on the body other than two black eyes, which were sewn shut … as was the mouth. She hadn’t started the post-mortem so something may come out of that. I’m hoping we’ll know more in the morning.’

‘In your honest opinion, forget all the police talk … I’m asking as a friend. Should I be worried?’ Kate rubbed her arms.

‘Well, first of all, I think you should keep your bloody mobile phone with you at all times. Tape it to your hand if you have to but don’t go anywhere without it. Can you promise me that?’

Kate nodded. ‘It’s not intentional. I just never really got into the idea that I could be contacted at all times. I guess I’m a bit old-fashioned that way.’ She pointed to the landline. ‘That’s my idea of a phone.’

‘I totally understand but given we know someone has been sending you letters and strange gifts – threats even – for your own safety you should have your phone on you. What if you need to call the police? You can’t just run to a phone box these days, Kate.’

‘OK. Point taken. Can we move on now?’ Kate’s brow furrowed. Maggie hoped she hadn’t overstepped the mark, but Kate had wanted an honest answer; she couldn’t be angry when that was what she got.

‘Sorry. I know we haven’t known each other for long, but I still consider you my friend. I just panicked when I couldn’t reach you. I’ve said my piece. Have you had anymore letters or contact from whomever is targeting you?’

‘The last contact that was made was the email to my work account. Whoever sent it was clever as no trace on the IP address could be found. Markston police aren’t really taking it seriously and, as things have calmed down, perhaps they were right. I still can’t figure out how they got those details though. Do you think it’s someone I know?’

‘That’s always a possibility. But it could be that someone gave out your details accidentally without realizing the implications of doing this. Or this person has their own ways and means of getting the information they need. Individuals of this predisposition can be very resourceful, in my experience.’

‘I guess that’s true.’ Kate shuddered.

‘What kind of security do you have on this place?’ Maggie stood and walked to the large windows. She tugged then smiled to herself when the window wouldn’t budge. At least she’s keeping herself safe when she’s home.

‘Window locks. I have the strong lock on the door and I recently put a chain lock on it. That’s basically it. I’ve been thinking I should get some sort of camera installed as the security in this building is shit. I mean, people let strangers in all the time.’ Kate rolled her eyes. ‘One of the main reasons I chose this building was because I thought it appeared pretty secure …’

‘I think cameras are a good idea. Do you need some contacts for that? I’m sure I could find a reliable place to get that sorted for you.’

‘Thanks, Maggie. I have some details as I began looking into it when everything started happening, but if those don’t pan out I’ll come back to you.’

‘Fair enough. Just make sure you do it sooner rather than later.’

‘Yes, ma’am.’ One side of Kate’s lips curled.

‘Do you have anyone who can stay with you or who you can stay with? I know I may be overthinking things, but at the moment I don’t want to rule out the possibility that this murder case and your stalker are associated in some way.’

‘I’ll be fine, Maggie. I appreciate your concern, but like you said, it may have nothing to do with me at all and I don’t want to make a mountain out of a mole hill. And neither should you. First thing tomorrow I’ll make some arrangements for extra security and we can take it from there.’

‘Well, if you change your mind and are at a loose end, you can always stay at mine. I have the spare bedroom. Just think about it, OK?’

‘Thanks. I will do.’ Kate smiled.

‘Oh, and I am sure I can get a panic alarm installed here and have your address flagged. I’m a bit pissed off that Markston police never offered you that option when you made your original complaint, if I’m honest.’

‘Just because I work there, I wouldn’t expect special treatment.’ She paused. ‘I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed with all this now. Any chance we can move on to something different?’ Kate ran her fingers through her hair. ‘Let me just deal with it in my way.’

Maggie held her hands up. ‘Sorry. I didn’t mean to panic you. Look, I’ve put everything on the table. You do what you need to, but please talk to me if there’s anything I can do to help.’

‘Hmm. OK.’ She yawned. ‘I’m feeling a bit tired now. I think I’m just going to go to bed. Sorry if I sound ungrateful. Hopefully, some sleep and a clear head will put everything in perspective.’

Maggie stood and gave Kate a hug. ‘Get some rest and I’ll call you if we hear anything more from forensics tomorrow. Are you working?’

‘Yes. I’ll be at Markston all day. Thanks again, Maggie. Night.’

Maggie said her goodbyes and stood outside Kate’s door as she listened to the locks being put on. Even that didn’t put her mind at rest. She had a bad feeling about this whole situation and doubted that Kate would get any sleep. She sure as hell knew she wouldn’t.

Chapter 10

Kate leaned against the front door as the details of the situation sank in. Her heart was racing but she didn’t want to let Maggie know how she really felt. Maggie would only start to stress out and she needed her focused. She needed her to catch this killer.

There would not be much sleep for Kate tonight. She went into her room, gave Salem a quick tummy rub as he stretched out across her bed, and picked up her laptop. If she could put some of her thoughts down on paper, she’d share the information with Maggie and help formulate a profile. Until she had some details from the current investigation, she decided to focus on what she could ascertain from the notes and gifts she had been sent. Kate had meticulously logged all the information, including her own photos, taken carefully so as not to disturb any evidence that might have been on the items. Her gut instinct that the individual was good at covering their tracks was proven correct when forensics had found no identifying evidence on the items.

The letters had arrived in black envelopes with gold writing. No stamps, so they had been delivered personally. Each had a common theme: possession. They said, for instance, ‘I will have you’, and although in and of themselves they were not threatening per se, it was the gifts that ramped up the obsessive qualities: dead roses, a wreath with ‘together soon’ on it, rings made of skin, and vials filled with liquid that looked like blood – sinister and threatening, as if this individual were trying to make a point.

Who are you? Have we met before?

Kate looked at the photos of the items she had received. The hairs on the back of her neck stood on end.

She looked around the room. Are you watching me now?

Kate knew that there were various ‘types’ of stalkers and wracked her brain trying to think of anyone with whom she had recently had an unpleasant encounter. No one in particular jumped out at her. She had been attending a lot of training events these last few months. Could the stalker be someone she had met, or possibly even someone she worked with? Her lips trembled and she wiped the sweat from her palms on her trousers.

Why have I been chosen?

A loud bang at the door made her jump out of her skin.

What the hell was that?

Kate stood up slowly. Her curiosity urged her to see what had happened, but her fear screamed at her to stay where she was.

If she didn’t check, she definitely would not get any sleep. She tiptoed to the door and put her eye up to the peephole. Inching closer and holding her breath, a loud BANG caused her to scream.

Then she heard the whispers and giggles. Two voices. She peered through the peephole again. A young man and woman were stumbling about in the hallway, trying to hold each other up. She shook her head and laughed.

Maybe Maggie was right. I think I do need to stay somewhere until I can get the security sorted.

Kate packed up her laptop and double checked that all the windows and the door were locked. She turned off the light in the hallway, headed to her bedroom and gently moved Salem over as she settled herself in bed.

It was the first time since her childhood that she slept with the light on.

Chapter 11

Maggie could smell the coffee even before she opened her eyes. Having her brother Andy living with her had some perks.

It was only 6am. Her sleep had been restless, as her brain had refused to shut down after seeing Kate last night. She hoped her friend would reconsider the offer of staying with her, but she wouldn’t push the idea.

Unless she had to.

Scrappy, her fluffy ginger cat, was curled up at the end of her bed, resting his big paw across her foot. ‘Sorry, boy. I’m getting up now.’ He stretched out and meowed in protest.

Maggie picked up the tracksuit bottoms she had thrown on the floor a few days ago. She had only worn them indoors so wasn’t too bothered that they were not fresh out of the wash. She pulled them on. Her T-shirt said SMILE but that was the last thing she felt like doing this morning.

‘Coffee time, Scrappy. You coming down for some brekkie?’ She walked out of her room knowing that she would hear a small thump as Scrappy jumped off the bed and followed her downstairs. He rarely missed an early breakfast call. She’d never found out where he had been when he’d gone missing some time ago. Maggie was still convinced that the serial killer, Bill Raven, had had something to do with her cat’s disappearance but couldn’t prove it. When Scrappy had reappeared, the vet had confirmed that he had some drug in him which had made him groggy but other than that, her cat was in good form. She was grateful for that as she was fond of the moggy, even though he could be a pain in the arse.

Maggie walked into the kitchen and yawned. ‘Morning. You’re up early, aren’t you?’

‘Sorry, did I wake you?’ Andy’s lips tensed.

‘Nah. I didn’t get much sleep last night if I’m honest. You look shattered. Everything OK?’ Maggie’s head tilted. Andy had dark circles under his eyes and was looking a bit pale.

‘Yeah. Just working some extra shifts is all. Taking its toll on me, I guess.’ Andy had been working overtime to put towards his savings. Maggie knew he was hoping to get enough money together to start his own business and move out. She hadn’t pressured him to leave, but understood that he needed his own space. He probably never thought he’d be living with his older sister at this stage in his life.

‘Well, don’t burn yourself out. You won’t do anyone any good if you get sick.’

‘Yes, Mum.’ He laughed. ‘Do you want a coffee?’

‘Yes, please. I’ll need as much caffeine as I can get. We have another case and I’ve a feeling I won’t be getting much sleep for a while.’

‘Oh shit! Already?’

‘Yeah. Sadly, these killers don’t think it’s fair to give us a break in between cases.’ She tried to smile, but she could tell from her brother’s frown that he wasn’t buying it.

‘Is this about that girl who was found in the park? I saw something on the news about it this morning. Do you think she was targeted because she was a Goth?’

‘Yes, that’s the case. We’ve no idea why she was targeted just yet. It’s still early days. But you’re right, it could be because of how she looked. There have been cases like that before, haven’t there?’ Maggie said this more to herself than to her brother as her mind ran over the few cases she was aware of in which Goths, or others whose appearances were different from the so-called norm, had been the focus of random, and sometimes brutal, attacks. She would discuss this with the team when she got into work.

‘Right, I’m off to have a shower. If I don’t see you before I go, have a good one and I’ll catch you later.’ Maggie headed upstairs feeling a bit better about things. The shower would clear the cobwebs. She’d call Kate when she arrived at the office to check that she had arranged extra security for her flat.

Chapter 12

Things weren’t working out as he had planned. She just wasn’t responding, and he didn’t know what he’d done wrong this time. He read the books again. Watched the YouTube videos. He’d followed each step meticulously.

With the first girl, he now realized he had hammered the orbital too hard. She’d haemorrhaged and there had been nothing he could do to save her. The poor thing had seized. But this one, he looked down, she was like a zombie, and that just wouldn’t do.

He kissed her forehead as he tucked the blankets in tightly around her and wiped the drool that stuck to the side of her face. ‘I’m sorry, sweetheart. I think we’re going to have to part ways soon. I really hoped you would snap out of this’ – he waved his hand – ‘state you’re in.’

Maybe if she sleeps? Yes, that might help. When he came home from work this evening, she’d be downstairs waiting for him. He had to remain positive. But he still couldn’t shake the feeling that she wasn’t the one. In his heart, he always knew. It was always Kate Moloney. The moment he saw her, a connection had been made. He needed his Kate.

I have to see her.

He looked at his watch. If he left now, there would still be time to go round to her flat. She wouldn’t have left for work yet.

He grabbed his coat, jogged down the flights of stairs, and out of the door.

The roads were fairly clear and it only took him half an hour to reach Kate’s home. He parked at the end of the road and waited. He figured he had at least another half an hour before she left, but she surprised him this morning.

His breath caught as he watched her bounce down the steps. So beautiful. That’s my girl. Pride swelled within his heart.

He put on the glasses, fixed the hair beneath the cap and checked himself in the mirror. He cleared his throat and tested out his deep voice. Perfect. He had been practising.

He started the engine and pulled away from the kerb slowly, so as not to attract any unwanted attention. As he came up beside her, he grabbed the map from the passenger seat and rolled down the window.

‘Excuse me, miss. I wondered if you could help me?’

Kate continued to walk. She was staring straight ahead and when a gust of wind blew her hair, he noticed the earbuds in her ears.

He tapped his horn and chastised himself when he noticed her jump. He didn’t want her to be afraid of him. She removed an earphone and looked in the car window.

‘Sorry. I didn’t mean to frighten you. I’m a little lost. I wondered if you could help me?’ Kate cocked her head, as if she was deciding whether or not to help the stranger before her.

‘Where are you going?’ Oh, her accent. Like music to my ears.

‘I’m looking for Anchor House. Do you know if it’s around here?’

‘Ah no. Sorry. I’m not familiar with that place. There’s a shop on the corner; maybe they’d be able to help you?’ She pointed to the end of the road.

‘Pardon? Can you come a little closer, I didn’t hear that?’

Instead, she spoke louder. Something was making her wary. Surely it couldn’t be him.

‘Try the shop down the road.’ She looked at her watch. ‘I wish I could be of more help, but I have to go.’ Her pace quickened and she looked back at him before she crossed the road, no doubt heading to the bus stop.

She stole another look in his direction. He had to stop himself from waving. She wanted to see me again. He folded the map up and shoved it in the glove box before pulling out and heading into work.

‘Living Doll’ came on the radio and he cranked it up louder.

It’s fate.

They were playing their song. The feeling of euphoria would last throughout the day.

Yes. It’s time. We’ll be reunited once again, my darling Kate.

He nearly passed the building because he was so caught up in thoughts of Kate. He took out his pass and held it against the flat surface, waiting for the beep to let him know the bar would rise. The parking lot was busy; he hadn’t been to this station in a while. Maybe he would see a friendly face or two, but first he would need to change.

Chapter 13

Kate pulled her coat around her as she looked back before crossing the road. The man in the car was still looking at her.

I’m just being paranoid.

He had been friendly enough and only asked for directions. Kate really hadn’t known the location he had asked her about, but there was no way she was going to lean in towards his car either. She’d watched various programmes on serial killers and that was definitely one of the tricks they used. With everything that had been happening, she wasn’t going to make it easy for anyone to grab her.

She’d reached the bus stop and looked around again. Kate thought she saw his car pass, but that wouldn’t make sense as the shop she’d directed him to was around the opposite side. Perhaps he’d changed his mind. She shrugged to herself. The bus arrived and after paying her fare and finding a seat, she put her earphones back in and relaxed as Muse took hold. She ignored the rest of the passengers.

Kate felt her mobile vibrate in her pocket. She smiled when she saw the message from Maggie.

I hope you have your mobile on you. Just wanted to double check that you’re sorting out the security we spoke about. Text me when you can. X Maggie

Kate texted back letting Maggie know that she was heading into work early and would update her on the security situation. She reminded her that they had already discussed this and there was no need to keep checking. To soften the conversation, she ended by thanking her for caring. She knew Maggie was only looking out for her, but she didn’t want to feel so vulnerable.

When she arrived in Markston she walked the long way around so she could go through the centre of the town. It was quiet at this time in the morning, so she popped into the café and picked up an Americano. She wouldn’t let her guard down though and continued to look around as she walked through the public parking lot towards the police station. Kate couldn’t help but feel someone was watching her, even though there wasn’t a soul in sight.

Once she punched in her password, she waited as the gate opened and then entered via the back door, taking the lift up to her office floor. She jumped when she heard someone call out, ‘Kate!’

Looking into the open-plan office, she smiled when she saw Lucy Sherwood. Lucy was an agency Probation Officer now after leaving her full-time post at Markston Probation. She was in the process of finalizing and opening a refuge for men and women who were in, or escaping from, abusive relationships.

‘Hi Lucy! How wonderful to see you. Had I known you’d be here, I would have brought you one.’ She raised her coffee. She walked towards Lucy, having to shimmy past Luke – the maintenance man from headquarters who was finally changing the flickering ceiling bulbs.

‘Well, I hadn’t planned on coming, but the accreditation from the Ministry of Justice has come through earlier than expected, so I’m here to talk over some things with Mark and the team regarding referrals. Are you OK? You’re looking a little pale.’

‘I’m grand.’ Kate wasn’t up for explaining recent events. ‘Great news about the refuge! If there’s anything I can help you with, just ask, OK?’

‘Thanks so much, Kate. I’m sure I’ll be picking your brains, as I’m working on an assessment to include in the referral and would love your input.’

‘No problem. We can catch up when you’re done here or book some time. I’d actually love to come by and see how you have set things up. I’m particularly keen to see how you have the male and female residential arrangements onsite.’ Kate looked at her watch. ‘I’m really sorry to cut things short but I need to do something. Make sure to catch me before you go, OK?’

‘I will. Nice to see you again, Kate.’

Kate smiled as she walked into her office, put her coffee down and slumped into her chair. It was exhausting putting on an act, but she couldn’t let anyone know just how shaken up she actually felt.

She turned on her computer and, while it booted up, she took out her notebook where she had recorded all the information about her stalker. Logging on to her computer, she opened the Google browser and searched for security firms within the area. She had already decided to have her locks changed even though there was no evidence to suggest that whoever this individual was had been in her home. She would much rather be sure that this wouldn’t be an option. She would also have the locks on the windows changed and alarms installed. A new alarm for the flat and a camera above the door would also ease her mind. She recalled Maggie’s offer to have a panic alarm installed, but decided that with all the additional security she was looking at, this wouldn’t be necessary.

After reading some of the reviews of the various companies, Kate settled on one and made the arrangements for them to come round on the weekend and do the work. She hadn’t meant to lie to Maggie when she told her she already had details for a company, but the situation had overwhelmed her and she just blurted it out. At least it was all sorted now.

What a relief.

She felt better about things. This was going to cost her a fair chunk of her savings, but in the long run her safety was more important.

There was a light knock on her door. ‘Morning, Kate. Are you coming to the meeting this morning?’ PC Mark Fielding raised his eyebrow.

‘Morning. Um, yeah. Is this about Lucy’s refuge?’ Mark nodded. ‘Right, gimme five and I’ll be in.’ She pointed to the ceiling. ‘Any chance you can ask Luke to pop in here and fix that bulb before he leaves? It takes ages to get maintenance here.’ She held her hands together in a kind of begging prayer.

‘Ha! Yes. I’ll have a word and then let DI Calleja know you’ll be through momentarily. I think there’s some more news to be shared with the team, but DS Hooper is not saying a word.’

‘Intriguing!’ Kate waited until Mark walked away before she dug out her mobile and called Maggie.

‘Hi, Kate. Everything OK?’

‘Yes. I just wanted to let you know that I’ve a security company coming around this weekend, hopefully, to install a few things and talk about other measures. It’s all sorted and you can relax.’

‘Well that does ease my mind a bit. But I’m still not happy that you have to wait. The offer of staying with me is still open.’

‘I appreciate that and I’ll have a think and see how I feel. Is there any news on the woman?’

‘There’s a briefing later today. Hopefully, Dr Blake has finished the post-mortem and once we have official confirmation of her identity, we can move things forward. I’ll keep you posted.’

‘Sounds good. I’ve got to go now – Lucy’s here to talk to us about her refuge.’

‘Is that up and running now? Amazing! Say hello and we’ll catch up later today or I’ll give you a bell this evening.’

‘You don’t have to keep checking up on me, you know?’ Kate sighed.

‘I know. But it’s more for my sake than yours, OK? Talk soon.’

Kate smiled as she ended the call. She’d never admit it, but she was secretly glad to have Maggie watching her back. The more she thought about the stalker, the more anxious she became. She didn’t want this to impact her work in the DAHU and she didn’t want to have to discuss the possibility of being forced to take time off. Work was her escape. If she didn’t have that, she’d be in worse shape.

I won’t go to that place again – once the darkness consumes me, it’s harder and harder to crawl out of that hole.

Kate’s previous bouts with anxiety and depression hung around her neck like a noose and she had fought hard to bury that part of her life. Kate stood and shook her head, plastered a smile on her face, pulled her shoulders back, and headed to the meeting room.

Chapter 14

The overcast sky and spittle of rain hitting her face on the way into work that morning almost seemed to perfectly reflect Maggie’s mood that day. She stared out of the window. Kate was still on her mind after their phone call.

Maggie’s shoulders were tight, and she hadn’t realized how worried she was until this moment. She rubbed the back of her neck, and as she looked up she saw Nathan coming down the corridor.

‘Everything OK?’ Nathan came over to her.

‘Yeah. Just got off the phone with Kate and she’s organised some additional security as a precaution while all this is going on.’

‘Did you tell her more about the case than we agreed?’ Nathan frowned.

‘She’d already seen the news, and once she put my panicky calls and the news story together, she pretty much figured things out for herself.’

Nathan turned on his heels. ‘In my office now, please.’

Maggie raised a brow. Nathan clearly wasn’t happy with her. She stood and followed him back into his office.

‘Have a seat.’ He pointed to a chair.

‘OK. You look pissed off. What have I done?’

‘I’m slightly concerned that you may have unnecessarily scared Dr Moloney by linking these cases together.’

‘Are you being serious?’ Maggie’s eyes widened.

‘Yes. I am. Look, I’m not only speaking to you as your boss here. There have been a few discussions about how you sometimes come across as a bit arrogant.’

‘What the hell, Nathan? You’re the one who told me to speak to Kate. No one else was going to do it. I just wanted to be upfront with her. She’s a friend as well as a colleague – and she may be at risk.’

‘Hang on. Let me finish. People don’t know you the way I and some of the team do, Maggie. We know how your brain works, and how you have this uncanny ability to connect the dots sometimes well in advance of when the rest of us do. But you need to tone things down. Be confident in your thoughts, of course, but let others share their theories and support them the same way you’d expect to be supported.’

Maggie’s shoulders drooped. ‘Do I really come across that way? It’s not how I’d like people to see me.’

‘I know. And it’s not all the time. What I’m saying is, just be mindful in future.’

‘I hear what you’re saying, but it’s not something I do consciously. I’ll try my best. If you feel I’m overstepping the mark, just tell me. I’d rather that than have people talking about me behind my back.’ Maggie’s shoulders tensed.

‘For the record, no one was talking behind your back, and you did also receive some high praise, especially from DI Rutherford who is impressed with your ability to spot things while focusing on all lines of enquiry.’

Maggie blushed. She’d never expected that DI Rutherford would speak of her so highly. She was still pissed off with Nathan though. ‘OK. Thanks for letting me know.’ She huffed.

‘Don’t be like that, Maggie. I wouldn’t be much of a boss – or a friend – if I didn’t tell you.’

‘Of course.’ Maggie pursed her lips. ‘I’m sure I’d do the same if I were in your position.’

Nathan shook his head. ‘I’m sure you would.’

Maggie turned to go. She hoped this was just a blip and they could go back to how things should be. Nathan knew she’d always been self-conscious about how she appeared to others, and hearing it, especially from him, really knocked her back.

‘Before you go, Bethany has been out to speak with the family of the missing woman, Tracy Holloway. I spoke to Dr Blake earlier and the forensic report should be with us at some point today. Contact any friends you can and I’ll see you in the incident room shortly.’

‘Yes, boss.’ She stood.

Nathan had a funny look on his face but Maggie didn’t want to push him. If he’d wanted her to know, he would have shared it there and then. She’d wait until the briefing.

Her shoulders tightened once again and her gut felt like someone had grabbed her insides and was having a tug of war. She didn’t have a good feeling about any of this.

Chapter 15

DI Rutherford called the team together to discuss victimology. ‘Good to see you all still smiling, though that soon may change once the details of Dr Blake’s report have been read.’

Maggie’s stomach tightened again. She looked to Nathan for some indication of what to expect, but he wouldn’t look her way.

‘Tracy Holloway was reported missing by her parents five weeks ago. She was last seen on her way towards Stafford town centre, where it is believed she was planning on catching a bus to her parents’ home. CCTV places her at Victoria Park entering from the east side. Last sighted by the bowling grounds, but there’s no other CCTV after this. The cameras lost her. It seems her abductor must have followed her or observed her in the park and made their move. It’s likely they are familiar with the CCTV locations, so as to have avoided being caught.’

‘That suggests the person is organised … methodical even,’ Maggie offered.

‘I’d agree with that assessment. Her family have said that Tracy was a slave to her routines and that would’ve made it a lot easier for the killer, if we assume they had been watching her before making their move.’ Rutherford tapped the evidence board. ‘They also confirmed they had been waiting for her to arrive, and the route she took would further support that she was heading for their address. A boyfriend or ex was mentioned. They’d had an argument; she called her mother to say that she would be a little late but that was the last they heard from her.’ The DI shuffled some papers on the table before her.

‘Has anyone spoken to the boyfriend or contacted the DAHU?’ Maggie didn’t believe that this was a domestic, but it would be worth pursuing, if only to rule out that angle.

‘It’s proving a little difficult to locate him as all we have is a first name, Joshua, even though they’d apparently been off and on for at least a year. The database has been checked, and we’re trying to locate anyone with that name, but there are more than we expected.’ The DI raised a brow.

‘What? You mean no one, not even her parents, knows his full name? I know there’s a backlog in the DAHU, but surely they would be able to give us some idea?’ Maggie’s eyes widened.

‘Afraid not on both counts. The Family Liaison Officer with the parents noted that the boyfriend wasn’t popular with them. Apparently, they thought he was a waste of space and it seems Tracy generally didn’t share much with them as it always ended badly. In fact, they weren’t even aware that they were still a couple – albeit off and on – until one of Tracy’s friends mentioned it.’

‘Sounds more like wishful thinking on their part if they didn’t really like him. What did her friends or colleagues know about him?’ Nathan sat back, crossing his leg.

‘Just first-name basis according to the field team. Though one of her friends believes his last name begins with either an A or H.’ DI Rutherford checked her notes.

Maggie sighed. ‘Well that should be easy to decipher, shouldn’t it.’

‘Sarcasm duly noted.’ The DI paused. ‘I’ve requested that the field team and our partner agencies keep their ears to the ground. It seems odd that this boyfriend hasn’t come forward despite the news reports. But there could be an innocent explanation.’

DI Rutherford didn’t sound convinced to Maggie.

Bethany spoke up. ‘When I spoke to some of Tracy’s friends they described her as trusting and always looking for the good in people. That may explain why she stayed with a boyfriend who most of her friends and family didn’t seem to like. A dangerous trait in this day and age, don’t you think?’

‘Hmm. She could have been easily lured by the killer. Maybe he pulled a Ted Bundy, pretended to have a broken limb so needed help loading something into the boot of his car – that sort of thing?’ Maggie suggested.

‘Good spot. You might be onto something. It might be a useful theory to raise at the press conference.’ Nathan looked at DI Rutherford.

‘Hold fire. That might give the public the false belief that we have a lead, or it may heighten the mood of any vigilantes out there to take action by misrepresenting the situation.’ After the Raven case, DI Rutherford was treading carefully with the press. Maggie understood her reasoning even if she wasn’t sure she agreed.

‘I see your point, ma’am, but doesn’t public protection need to come first? Maybe if we put our heads together and carefully word the release we can get the message out without causing panic?’ Maggie caught the glare from her boss and instantly regretted opening her mouth.

‘Her colleagues did point out that in the last few weeks prior to her abduction she’d been behaving oddly.’ The DI scratched her chin.

‘In what way?’ Maggie wouldn’t do herself any favours by pissing off the DI. After the conversation with Nathan, she’d try to think more before blurting out her own theories.

‘She was constantly checking her drawers at work. Looking over her shoulder. A bit jumpy – that sort of thing. When her colleagues asked her about it, they said she brushed it off and her excuse was that she’d been watching one too many horror films lately. According to her friends, after that, it looked like she was making an effort to appear normal, but she wasn’t fooling any of them.’

‘Was she an overly private person?’ Nathan stared at the evidence board.

‘Only in relation to her boyfriend, it seems. Otherwise, she was described as outgoing, fun and quite talkative. Why? What are you thinking, Nathan?’ Maggie had to squint to read Rutherford’s notes as she scribbled on the whiteboard.

‘Hmmm … it just seems at odds with the behaviour described today. Did any of them give a hint that they may have known something more? Maybe they pushed her on it, she had a go, so they’re not sharing anything as they don’t want to be involved or break her confidence?’

‘Interesting you should say that as two of her work mates said they challenged Tracy and she did get very defensive, so they backed off. They didn’t really think much of it after the fact as they said they assumed she was having a domestic situation. One said they couldn’t remember the conversation and the other just went blank when questioned.’ The DI paused and waited for some feedback from the team.

‘Might be worth having another word. Maybe they were in shock after learning of Ms Holloway’s murder,’ Nathan offered.

‘Yes. Bethany’s going to interrogate Tracy’s social media accounts. Maggie, you can speak to the work colleague and Nathan, you’re with me. Let’s chat before the press conference this afternoon. We need to put something together that raises awareness so that people, particularly women, are more vigilant but without causing a bloody panic.’

Chapter 16

Nathan was coming out of his office with his coat on when Maggie grabbed his attention. ‘Can I have a word before you shoot off?’

‘I’ve only a few minutes. I’ve been summoned to a meeting with DCI Hastings after I speak with the DI.’

‘Oh. Hope it’s nothing serious. I just spoke to one of Tracy’s friends and she mentioned that Tracy had been sent some random notes from someone but had hidden them from her boyfriend.’

‘And what? She was seeing someone else?’ Nathan appeared distracted.

‘Well, that’s what the boyfriend thought. According to the friend, the couple got into an argument; he was charged with criminal damage and was given bail conditions to keep away. Possibly the reason he hasn’t come forward, so we should have his details on record. But why didn’t those notes turn up when her house was searched?’

‘You’re losing me, Maggie. What’s the significance of the notes?’

‘Could they be from the killer? What if Tracy was being stalked too, like Kate?’

‘Interesting theory but without the notes, it’s hard to say – and we can’t just make up evidence to link this to Kate’s situation.’ Nathan looked at his watch.

‘I wouldn’t do that. I just wanted you to know that I’m going to go and talk to her friends and colleagues again. See if they can shed further light on these notes. I’ll update you if I find anything of interest.’

‘Sounds good, but tread carefully. I don’t want you planting any ideas in their heads – they need to be the ones who tell you the details, not the other way around.’

Nathan left without waiting for a reply. Maggie went back to her desk and made a list of the people she would speak to, starting with Tracy Holloway’s parents. They had already been interviewed by the field officers and from what the records said, it looked like Tracy had been close to them; she may have told them about the letters or be able to direct Maggie to someone who did know.

Chapter 17

‘Hello. Is that Mr Holloway?’

‘Yes, who’s this?’ His reply was abrupt.

‘My name is DC Maggie Jamieson; I’m calling about your daughter’s case. I know you’ve already spoken to the police, but some new information has come to light and I just wondered if you could help me?’

‘New information? Have you arrested someone? I’ll do anything to end this nightmare. My wife is beside herself. Not eating. Not sleeping. We just want this whole ordeal over so we can grieve properly.’

‘I absolutely understand that and I’m sorry if I gave you the wrong idea. We haven’t arrested anyone. I’ve spoken to a friend of Tracy’s and she mentioned that Tracy had received some letters that may have caused friction with her boyfriend. I wondered if you knew anything about that?’

‘Not this again. Her boyfriend would use any excuse to slander my daughter. We never heard of any such nonsense. For whatever reason, Tracy loved him; she’d never do anything to jeopardize that. Though we don’t know why. He showed his true colours when they fought, didn’t he!’

‘Did she have any close friends or colleagues she may have spoken to about her … erm … relationship?’

‘Well, yes. Of course, she did. I don’t know what he told you, but despite his best efforts, Tracy had many friends. Rona has been her best friend since they were toddlers. I can get you her details, if you want.’

‘We haven’t located the boyfriend yet and that would be really helpful. Thank you so much.’ Maggie wrote out the details and said goodbye. Mr Holloway was very defensive and clearly didn’t like his daughter’s boyfriend. She didn’t want to upset him further and doubted that their daughter would have shared anything about her relationship or any problems she may have had with them, given the hostility. Maybe the best friend would be more helpful.

Maggie dialled the number she had been given and her shoulders slumped at each ring. Just as she was about to hang up, the phone was answered.

‘Hello?’

The voice was barely audible.

‘Hello. Is that Rona?’

‘Yes.’

‘My name is DC Maggie Jamieson and I’m calling to clarify a few points in relation to Tracy Holloway. Are you able to talk?’

‘Sure. What can I do to help?’

‘We’ve learned that Tracy had received some … erm … notes that suggested she may have been seeing someone else? Do you know anything about that?’

Maggie heard a sniff through the earpiece.

‘She wasn’t seeing anyone else. Did that arsehole Josh tell you that?’

Rona seethed.

‘No, it was suggested that he believed that was the case and the couple argued. Had she hidden them from him and he found out?’

‘Josh is an idiot. Some weirdo had been sending her notes; it really creeped her out. She hid them because she knew how he would react. And she wasn’t wrong, was she? She didn’t tell anyone about them at first. But I noticed she was really jumpy and I had to beg her to tell me. She was going to go to the police, but then … well …’

The woman burst into tears.

‘I’m sorry to have dragged this up but that’s really helpful. Do you mind if I ask just one more question?’

‘If you think it would help, ask anything you want.’

‘Did you happen to see the notes?’ Maggie tapped her pen on her desk while she waited for a reply.

‘Yes. She showed them all to me.’

‘Can you describe them to me?’ Maggie didn’t want to lead the woman.

‘Yes. They were in black envelopes. On black paper. With gold writing. Why?’

‘No reason. Just want to make sure I have all the details. Thank you so much for your time.’ Maggie clicked the receiver to end the call and took a deep breath.

Without seeing the actual notes, she couldn’t be sure, but it looked very much like Kate’s stalker could also be their killer.

Chapter 18

Maggie wasn’t one for reflecting on other people’s opinions of her, not out of arrogance, but more because things like that tended to eat away at her. However, Nathan’s words from earlier had stung. She rolled a pen between her fingers. She didn’t want to put people’s noses out of joint by making assumptions about the notes Tracy had received, but all sorts of sinister thoughts were going through her head. Someone called out her name.

‘Are you coming to the briefing? Looks like Dr Blake’s worked some magic.’ Nathan popped his head into the open-plan office area.

‘On my way, boss!’ Dr Blake must have sent the full forensic report.

She gathered her notebook, turned her phone onto silent, tucked it in her pocket, and picked up a pen before making her way to the incident room.

Nathan stood at the front of the room, alongside DI Abigail Rutherford. A few members of the field team were asked to sit in, and this made Maggie a little bit anxious. What did that pathologist report say?

DI Rutherford spoke first. ‘Thank you all for coming. DS Wright will be introducing the details of the pathology report today, but I wanted to first say that this is an unusual case and one that we will need to be sensitive about. I’ve just passed the more sensitive information on to the FLO, so Tracy’s family will be aware of the details. I’ll leave you in the capable hands of DS Wright while I go and speak to the COMMS Officer.’

Maggie and Bethany looked at each other.

‘Christ. I’ve goose bumps after that delivery. What the hell is going on?’ Bethany leaned forward.

Maggie shrugged. She had no idea what they were facing but she wasn’t liking what she’d heard so far.

‘Thanks, guv. OK, folks. This is a case unlike any most of us will have come across in our careers. Until we know the motivation, we have to be very careful how we handle things from here on in. I’ve read the pathologist’s report and it is quite disturbing. Tracy Holloway is a twenty-eight-year-old white female. Her hair had been dyed black by the killer. Once the pathologist was able to remove the stitching from her eyes, she found that blue contact lenses had been inserted.’ Nathan pulled a picture from the folder in front of him and pinned it on the board. ‘This is what Ms Holloway looked like a few days before she was abducted.’

Maggie gasped. Although she had seen pictures of their victim before, they had been poor quality and from several years ago. Seeing the enlarged photo showed just how much Tracy had been totally transformed. Had they not had the details that confirmed their victim was the woman in the picture, she never would have said they were the same person.

Nathan continued. ‘The post-mortem concluded that Tracy died from a brain haemorrhage caused by trauma. According to Dr Blake, it seems that our killer attempted a leucotomy – more commonly known as a lobotomy – on Ms Holloway and punctured blood vessels causing internal bleeding on the brain. Tracy may have suffered from headaches, seizures and various other symptoms before her death. Our killer then left her in the park, face down.’ Nathan paused. ‘The report also indicates that the victim had an infinity-shaped tattoo on her left shoulder blade. When her parents were first contacted, they advised that she had no distinguishing marks or tattoos, but we’ll need to speak to her friends or others who knew her perhaps more intimately to confirm this. She may not have told her parents she’d had one done.’

‘Oh my god, Nathan. For once, I am at a loss for words.’ Maggie stared at the picture of Tracy on the board. ‘What would possess someone to do this?’

‘That’s exactly what we need to find out.’ Nathan then pointed to the side note on the board which had Kate’s details following her report of harassment. ‘It’s still too early to link Dr Moloney’s stalker – and I do believe we are also dealing with a stalker – at this time; however I think we need to look into this report further.’

‘Can I ask why the sudden change of heart?’ Maggie was both pleased and worried. If this murder was linked to the person who was stalking Kate, her friend may be in more danger than they all had thought. Maggie was reluctant to share the information from Rona about the letters at this time, as they had not been found. If she disclosed this now, and it turned out to be wrong, Nathan and the rest of the team would not be impressed.

‘I think we have to accept that the resemblance to Dr Moloney is not easily dismissed. The fact that Ms Holloway’s appearance was changed, and that Dr Moloney has recently been the victim of unwanted gifts and letters with a sinister undertone, makes it more than likely that the same person who has been sending Kate these items is our killer.’

‘If that’s true, he’s escalating. Do you think we should let Kate know about this?’ In normal circumstances, Maggie would have been straight on the phone to Kate, but without any concrete evidence, as Nathan had warned, she knew this could cause more harm than good.

Nathan shook his head. ‘No. I’m talking to DI Rutherford about how best to approach this. But until we can make a definite connection, we don’t want to upset Dr Moloney.’

Maggie took a deep breath before responding, but she couldn’t help herself. ‘I totally understand that, but if we wait too long we could actually be placing Kate in jeopardy.’

‘I can assure you no one wants that, Maggie. We are aware of the risks, but we have to be careful here.’ Nathan glowered at her.

Maggie let the words seep into her mind. She didn’t like this one bit – her instincts to protect Kate were screaming, but Nathan was right, they needed more to connect the cases. ‘Fair enough. Where do we go from here then?’

‘I’d like the field officers to find out more about Ms Holloway’s habits. Did she have a tattoo that she may have hidden from her family? Had she had any unwanted attention recently and the like? Bethany, I’d like you to dig further into her social media accounts. Any new friend requests? Anything that seems unusual. Also, let’s try to piece together her last movements based on CCTV and information from those we speak to. Maggie, I’d like you to speak to Probation to see if they have anyone on their books who’s raised some eyebrows recently and then go to Ms Holloway’s home. There are some forensic officers still there. See if anything stands out to you. That’s it for now. Keep me updated on anything that may be of importance.’

Maggie waited behind as her colleagues shuffled out of the room. ‘Can I have a word, Nathan?’

He nodded.

She waited until everyone was gone, stood up, and closed the door. ‘Between you and me, how concerned about Kate should we be? And please,’ she touched his arm, ‘don’t sugar-coat it or feed me the standard line.’

‘In my honest opinion?’

‘Yes. I need to know the truth.’

‘OK. I think we should be very concerned about her but I was instructed not to share this with the team yet as everything we have is only circumstantial. However, I’m using my own judgement now and I’m going to Markston Police Station shortly. I’ve already spoken to DI Calleja and shared my concerns. We’ve agreed to speak to Kate together and let her know.’

Maggie’s head pounded and she rubbed her temples.

‘I need you to stay focused, Maggie. It’s hard when one of our own is targeted. But we can’t let our feelings – no matter what those feelings are – cloud our judgement. Am I being clear?’ His brow rose.

Maggie nodded. ‘Right, of course. I’m going to contact Probation and see if there’s anyone acting out of the ordinary. And thank you for being honest, I appreciate that.’

Nathan squeezed her shoulder and left the room.

Maggie looked up at the board. They needed to find this killer before Kate was the next one on the mortuary slab.

Chapter 19

Back at her desk, Maggie couldn’t sit still. Her curiosity was getting the better of her. She wanted to know what information DI Rutherford and Nathan would be sharing with the press and whether they would allude to the connection with another stalking case.

She snuck in the back of the room and stood against the wall, her hands behind her, to stop her from reacting to anything that might lead to further frustrations. Looking at the attendees, she noticed that gobby journalist who had been out to get her during the Raven case. At the time, she had been investigating the dismembered remains of Bill Raven’s alleged victims while he had been appealing his conviction. The reporter had made a point of sensationalizing the case and making Maggie look like she was incompetent. She’d also thrown around accusations that Maggie had coerced an innocent man into confessing and was trying to sabotage his release. She shuddered as the memories raced through her mind.

Maggie listened as her DI advised the press on the current situation with the discovery and formal ID of Tracy Holloway’s body.

‘Our victim was discovered in the early hours and declared dead on the scene. After speaking with our colleagues in the Misper Unit, we can now confirm the victim has been identified as Tracy Holloway, who had been reported missing some five weeks ago. On discovery of her body, we’ve learned that her hair had been dyed black and clothing that she did not own was placed on her, presumably by her abductor and killer.’

‘Can you tell us if she had been sexually assaulted in any way?’ One journalist shouted out.

‘No, I can’t confirm that at the moment. As soon as more forensic details have been passed on to us, we’ll be sharing what we can with you. Our message today really is to ask you all to respect the family’s wishes and allow them time to grieve.’

‘What about the eyes being sewn shut?’ The mouthy journalist called out.

Maggie’s eyes widened. How the hell did she know that? She needed to find out the journalist’s name.

‘I’m sorry? I’m not sure where you got that information from, but I am not at liberty to discuss any aspects of the ongoing investigation.’ DI Rutherford’s face had reddened, and Maggie knew the reporter would not give up so easily.

‘But you’re not denying it then, are you? And the mouth too. I heard she had an almost doll-like appearance.’

Maggie clenched her fists behind her; she could feel her knuckles graze the wall. She noted the smirk on the journalist’s face.

‘As I said, I’m not at liberty to discuss anything more with you at this time. I’d like to thank you all for attending today. If you have any further questions, you can direct them to our COMMS Officer via the usual channels.’ DI Rutherford straightened her suit jacket and made her way out of the room, with Maggie quickly in tow.

‘What the hell was that?’ Maggie whispered to her boss.

‘Fucked if I know. How did that journalist get those details? I specifically told you all in the briefing that we wouldn’t be giving out those details to the press. Our whole case could be compromised now with all the nutters who are going to call in saying it was them.’

‘Do you think we have a leak in the team, ma’am?’ Maggie had to quicken her pace to keep up with the DI.

‘We’d better not or heads will roll! And what was that crap about looking like a doll?’

Maggie grabbed DI Rutherford’s arm. ‘Wait. Dr Blake said something like that at the crime scene. I don’t think it was recorded anywhere, so the leak could be anyone who was within earshot.’

‘Are you serious? Right, I want you to speak to Nathan and check the records, statements, and any notes available. I’ll be calling everyone together in an hour. If we have a leak, we need to know. I’d also like to find out more about that journalist. We need to shut this down as soon as possible before she prints something that’s going to cause a panic in the community.’ DI Rutherford carried on to her office, and Maggie went to Nathan’s.

***

‘Did you hear what happened?’ Maggie blurted out.

‘Where? When? Sorry, I’m not psychic so I have no clue what you’re talking about. Care to enlighten me further?’

‘Sorry.’ She took a breath. ‘At the press conference. Remember that journalist from the Raven case – the one who clearly had it in for me? She knew about the eyes and mouth being sewn shut in this case and—’

‘What? Did she say where she found out that information?’ Nathan interrupted.

‘Well, if you’d let me finish …’ Maggie smiled. ‘She also knew about Dr Blake referring to the victim as looking like a doll, but she wouldn’t say where the information came from and Rutherford basically ended things there.’

‘The guv must be fuming. But the doll thing – was that said in any of the briefings?’

‘I can’t recall. I know Dr Blake said it at the crime scene, but I can’t for the life of me remember if it was something that was mentioned with everyone at any of the discussions or even casually in the office. That’s what worries me more. Only someone at the scene would have heard that.’ Maggie sat. Her legs felt like jelly.

‘Well, let’s find out the facts first. We should be able to narrow down where the information originated and then how the journalist got hold of it.’

Maggie knew Nathan was right. ‘DI Rutherford wants me to go over the statements to see what information was recorded. That may give us a lead. She’s also asked me to get Bethany to do some digging on that journalist. We’ll have to stop her from sensationalizing this whole thing – imagine what Tracy Holloway’s family are going to think if they read about that in the papers.’

Nathan’s computer pinged. ‘Go and make a start on those tasks; we’re meeting in an hour. Can you ask Bethany to come in here? I’ll work with her on the journalist side of things and see if we can get at least those aspects suppressed. Though I’m sure we’re going to have to give her something to stop her.’ Nathan scratched his head and picked up his phone. That was her cue to leave.

She walked over to Bethany. ‘Nathan needs you in his office.’

‘Erm. OK. Any clue what it’s about?’ Bethany frowned.

‘Just the case. Sorry, I need to do something before the briefing. Don’t look so worried.’ As the words came out of her mouth, she knew she sounded harsher than she’d intended but Bethany was already out of her chair and heading to Nathan’s office before she could explain further.

Maggie opened the statements on her system. She trawled through the details but could find no mention of Dr Blake’s comments from the crime scene. She looked through the notes she’d jotted down from the briefing but then realized that even if the doll-like reference of the victim had been mentioned, she wouldn’t necessarily have noted that herself. Her next port of call would be DI Rutherford’s PA, but with her only working part-time, she may well have gone for the day. She picked up her phone and dialled the extension. The answerphone kicked in. Damn. And then a thought crept into her head and the hair on her arms stood on end.

What if the killer was in contact with the journalist?

Chapter 20

The television blared from the front room as he made the coffee. ‘I hope it’s not too loud for you. It’s just that I enjoy this reporter. She doesn’t pull any punches.’ He wondered if she’d heard him, but just in case she hadn’t he popped his head through the doorway and called through, ‘It is pretty loud, isn’t it? I’ll turn it down a notch. I don’t want to give you a headache.’ She seemed more responsive today.

Her head lolled to the side. ‘Oh no. Hang on a minute. I’ll just pour the coffee and then I’ll help you out. Two secs, my princess.’ He whistled as he poured their drinks and then shuffled back into the front room, placing the cups on the coasters. ‘OK then. Here we go.’ He tilted her head back and repositioned her in the chair. ‘Are you thirsty?’ He pointed to the coffee mug. ‘It’s a little hot at the moment, but when it cools, I can help you if you want.’

No answer.

‘Come on now. How am I supposed to know what you want if you don’t answer me?’ He nudged her shoulder and her head fell backwards, hanging over the back of the chair.

‘Oops. Sorry.’ He straightened her again. ‘Why won’t you talk to me? I need you to say something.’ He brushed the hair off her face. ‘You feel hot. I hope you don’t have a fever.’ He went up to the first floor via the stairs and looked in the cupboard under the sink in the spare bathroom. He pulled out the small bag and inside he found the thermometer.

He returned to the living room. ‘Open wide.’

Nothing.

He placed two of his fingers on her lips and used his thumb to prise her mouth open. ‘Good. Now don’t let this fall out.’ He placed the thermometer underneath her tongue and gently closed her mouth. He sat opposite her, and while he waited he picked up his mug and focused on the television.

‘Do you see why I like her? So feisty! I suspect the police aren’t always thrilled with her reporting of the crimes in the community.’ He chuckled to himself. His interest was piqued when the reporter mentioned Tracy Holloway. ‘Oh. This should be good.’ He turned the television up again.

‘In other news, the police still don’t have any leads in the case of Tracy Holloway. Ms. Holloway was found face down in Granger Park by two teenaged boys. When I spoke to the family, they expressed concerns about how little information was being shared with them by the police. My questions to the police have remained unanswered.’

‘I think I need to speak to this reporter. Maybe I can give her some of the answers she’s looking for. What do you think?’ She could be my voice.

No response.

He placed his mug back on the table and shook his head. What am I going to do with her? He stood, walked over, and pulled the thermometer from her mouth. ‘One hundred and three. Shit.’ He wiped his sweaty palms on his trousers. ‘You definitely have a fever. I’m sure I have some antibiotics around here somewhere. I’ll get you a cool cloth for your forehead too. You need to rest.’ He removed the rope from around her chest. He had stopped tying up her wrists and feet when he realized she wouldn’t be struggling. ‘Let’s get you back to bed.’ He lifted her in his arms and hummed a soothing lullaby, one his mother used to sing to him when he was poorly, as he struggled to carry her upstairs.

He pushed the door to her room open with his foot, walked over to the bed and placed her on top of the covers. ‘I’ll get a light blanket to cover your legs.’ He left her and went into his own room.

‘Now, where did I leave those meds?’ He rummaged in the top drawer of his dresser until he found the bottle he was looking for. He checked the date. Not expired yet. These will do. He went over to his closet and pulled out the throw he had washed the other day. He sniffed it. ‘Perfect’.

He went back to her room and dropped the blanket and tablets on the floor.

What the hell?

Her hand was clenching the bedsheets. She had moved! A smile formed across his face. He picked up the items he had dropped and, placing them down on the nightstand, he opened the small cupboard by her bed where he had stored the ropes and a leg chain. The reality was, she had probably spasmed because of the treatment and her infection. He didn’t care though. Better safe than sorry. He didn’t want to hurt her because he knew she was unwell, so he loosely tied her hands and feet to the bedposts. ‘I’ll be back.’

He returned to the room a few minutes later with a cool, damp washcloth and wiped her face. He folded the cloth and placed it on her forehead. He popped two antibiotics from the bottle, raised her head and held the glass of water from this morning to her mouth as he popped a pill into her mouth and let her head go back to swallow. The gag reflex took hold and he was pleased that she did not have dysphagia, which suggested to him there wasn’t brain damage. Maybe it was just an infection and once it was gone, she would be back. His living doll …

He massaged her throat and when he felt her body shake his heart sank. Shit. She was choking. He sat her up and thumped her back. After three hefty thwacks, something shot out of her mouth. He lay her back down and sat on the edge of the bed as he dissolved the contents of the medicine in her water. It may not work, but he would try it until he could get his hands on something else.

It took almost fifteen minutes to get the liquid inside her. He watched her for a further fifteen minutes to make sure she didn’t convulse again, gently caressing her hair. She stared at the ceiling and he wondered what was going through her mind. Was she thinking of him? Did she want to speak but her body refused to do what her mind was screaming? He hoped so. He needed her to stay alive as he wasn’t ready to lose her just yet.

‘Sleep well, princess. I have something special planned for you soon. Something that will bind us together for all eternity. You’d like that, wouldn’t you?’ He traced a symbol on her arm with his finger. ‘I’ll leave the light on for you, just for tonight mind.’ He stood and stretched his legs. He wished he could share his plans with her, but that would ruin the surprise.

He needed a nap but he still had one task he wanted to do. He rubbed his eyes and gently closed the door as he left her room. He went back downstairs to his desk. He was feeling excited as he sat down and took out a black envelope, a black sheet of writing paper, and his gold pen, and began to write.

Chapter 21

Maggie looked at her list of priority tasks. After updating Nathan on her plans, she finished off her coffee before she picked up the phone and contacted Markston Probation. Location wise, it seemed the best place to start, given the address of Tracy Holloway and where she was found.

After a few rings, the phone was answered and Maggie asked to be put through to Sarah Hardy.

‘Markston Probation. Sarah speaking. How can I help you?’

‘Hi Sarah. It’s Maggie – I’m actually hoping to pick your brains a bit, if I can.’

‘Oh hey! Great to hear from you. What can I do for you?’

‘We have a case that’s left us all a bit baffled. I can’t go into too much detail, but I wondered if you or any of your colleagues have anyone on your caseload who’s raised a red flag recently.’

‘Can you give me a little more than that?’

Maggie had to be careful with what information she shared, so she tried to give as much as she could without compromising the case. ‘Let me think. Anyone who has a previous history of violence, harassment, stalking, kidnapping even. Targets females. Perhaps they’ve recently stopped reporting. Or even the opposite – previous poor compliance but they’re now attending every appointment.’

‘Wow. That’s quite a bit to digest. Let me have a chat with my colleagues and we can put a list together. I can’t think of anyone off the top of my head, but I do have close to one hundred cases at the moment, so it may take a bit of time. I can email a list over to you as soon as possible.’

‘That would be great. I’m kind of relieved that no one screams out at you at the moment, but if you could go away and discuss it with your colleagues, I’d really appreciate that. And if your manager needs to speak to anyone regarding the sharing of information, they’re more than welcome to ring DI Rutherford.’

‘Great. Speak to you soon.’

Maggie ended the call. She tried to log the information on her computer, but the screen was playing up again. Probably a loose connection. She dialled the HR department and asked if they could send someone from maintenance out to fix it. There was always a free desk in the office, so she used one of the other computers to record the information and then gathered her things together. Her next task would be to visit Tracy Holloway’s home. Bethany was still looking at the social media accounts – Maggie informed her where she could be found if anyone needed her and she went down to the enquiry desk to grab the keys and sign out one of the pool vehicles.

***

At this time of day, the drive to Woodend didn’t take long. The area was decent enough, if not a little run-down, and Maggie surmised that the rent was probably affordable for a young person trying to live away from home. She used the code that had been given to the police by Tracy’s parents to get into the building and walked up the two flights of stairs, as there was a massive puddle in front of the lift and Maggie didn’t want to have to guess what it was.

She stopped on the landing to catch her breath before entering the second-floor hallway. She knew she was out of shape and if she didn’t do something about that, she’d fail the next fitness test and be stuck on desk duties. She made a mental note to start exercising again.

The victim lived in flat 212, and it was easily recognizable as there was a police officer standing just outside the door. Maggie showed her ID and signed the form he shoved in her direction. Inside, Maggie was instantly hit with the smell of vanilla. The flat was tidy and decorated minimally, and there were candles everywhere. She suited up and snapped on the latex gloves so she could begin looking around. There were a few people still dusting for prints.

‘You all OK if I just have a look in the bedroom?’

‘If you’re suited up, knock yourself out,’ one of the forensic officers responded.

The first door led to the bathroom and Maggie’s heart nearly stopped when she opened the door and came face-to-face with a masked man.

He jumped back. ‘Whoa! You gave me a fright.’

Maggie laughed holding her hand over her heart. ‘Snap! Sorry, I didn’t realize anyone was in there.’

‘Yeah, just collecting prints. All yours if you need it.’

‘No. I was looking for the bedroom. I’m guessing it’s that other door.’ She pointed.

‘Yeah. I was headed there next. Do you mind if I follow?’

‘That’s fine. I’ll just have a look around and then leave you to it.’

Maggie walked ahead and entered the bedroom. There was a double bed which had been made up. So Tracy was meticulous and tidy. One bedside table with a small lamp and a notebook. A chest of drawers and a small closet.

She opened the closet. Everything was hung neatly and looked to be in order of type: dresses, blouses, jackets, and trousers of various colours. The clothes she was found in did not match her usual style. The floor of the closet had shoe boxes full of trainers and pumps. No boots. A few scarves hung on a hook on the inside of the door. She closed it and went over to the chest of drawers next.

Socks, underwear, T-shirts and pjs were folded neatly. Maggie lifted a few things to see if perhaps Tracy hid any valuables underneath her clothing. Nothing there. Maggie looked under the mattress – nothing. And nothing under the bed either.

Finally, Maggie went to the bedside table. There was a smaller drawer with a cupboard compartment underneath. Inside the cupboard she found make-up, a hair dryer, curlers, and a make-up mirror. Then she opened the drawer and her heart stopped. She pulled out her mobile and with shaking hands scrolled until she found Nathan’s number, and hit connect.

Nathan answered almost immediately.

‘Hey, Maggie. What’s up?’

‘Sir, we have a problem. Have you spoken to Kate yet?’

‘I’m with DI Calleja. We’re just waiting for Kate to finish a call before she joins us. What is it, Maggie?’

‘I’m at Ms Holloway’s flat and have just found a bundle of letters. They’re in black envelopes with gold writing.’

‘OK. You’ve lost me now. Is that significant?’ Maggie was surprised Nathan hadn’t connected the dots. He had obviously not taken Kate’s stalker seriously.

‘Very. Kate received the letters in black envelopes with gold writing from her stalker.’

‘Oh shit! I’ve got to go. Kate’s just arrived. Make sure they’re bagged up and hand them over to the forensic team then head back to the station. I’ll see you there.’

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