Call connected at 20:12.
‘Hi, Mum?’
‘Hello, darling.’
‘Is everything okay?’
‘Yes. Why wouldn’t it be?’
‘You don’t normally call this late.’
‘I wanted to check in. You normally work the weekends during a big case. I remember how you used to pace around the kitchen.’
‘You’re right. I’ve just gotten home.’
‘That’s a long day for a Sunday.’
‘Yeah. This case is the gift that keeps giving. You sure you’re okay?’
‘Yes, darling. I only called because I miss you.’
‘Oh. I miss you too.’
‘And your dad misses you.’
‘Does he?’
‘Of course he does.’
‘He’s got a funny way of showing it.’
‘I know, I know.’
‘Sorry, it’s not your fault. Being away is even harder because he’s not speaking to me.’
‘He’s a silly man. I love him, but he doesn’t always make the best decisions.’
‘I love him too.’
‘You’re a good girl, Gabriella.’
‘Ah, you’ll be happy. I interviewed a suspect today and had to state my full name for the recording.’
‘You’re such a ninny. Who wouldn’t love your name?’
‘It’s ridiculous. I can only assume you were high on pain meds when you named us.’
‘I picked beautiful names for my children. I won’t hear a word against them. Anyway, I know you can’t tell me anything about the case you’re working on, so what have you been up to outside of work?’
‘I’ve, um, started seeing someone.’
‘Oh, Gabriella. How lovely. What’s he like?’
‘Kind. And it is a he, by the way.’
‘Oh, well. Yes. What does he do?’
‘He’s a model.’
‘Oh my. Handsome then?’
‘Very.’
‘Will we get to meet him?’
‘Maybe, probably. It’s early days.’
‘It’s so nice to hear you’re seeing someone, putting yourself out there.’
‘Yeah. How’s the food bank going?’
‘You remembered!’
‘Course I did.’
‘It’s great. I’m getting to know the families. They have such a hard time of it.’
‘I bet.’
‘Have you found yourself a church down there yet?’
‘Um, not yet.’
‘I know you don’t think much of it all, but it’s a good place to find friends, have a community.’
‘I guess. I have to go. My dinner’s almost ready. Love you, Mum.’
‘I love you, Gabriella.’
‘I’m going now.’
‘Goodbye, Gabriella.’
‘Bye, Mother.’