Call connected at 14:17.
‘Hello, darling. To what do I owe this pleasure?’
‘Keith, please don’t start.’
‘Start what?’
‘I’m not playing this game. Another case has come in.’
‘Has it now?’
‘Don’t make this difficult. I’m not going to be able to come out this weekend, but I want you to bring the girls here.’
‘I’m not sure that’s a good idea.’
‘Please, Keith.’
‘Say we come in but you have an interview to conduct or some bad guy to chase down. Are you really going to put that on hold to see us?’
‘I can take more time at the weekends. I just can’t come out to see them.’
‘I don’t know if it’s worth the heartbreak. I’m the one comforting them when you let them down again. They’re already going to be distraught you’re not coming home, do you really want me to drag them into the city only for you to spend odd minutes with them when you can?’
‘I won’t let them down. I can’t help when a case comes in.’
‘You always prioritise your work over us.’
‘You know why I have to work so much, Keith.’
‘That’s my fault as well, is it?’
‘I’m not doing this. Make a decision about whether you’re bringing the girls in and let me know.’
‘Not going to fight for them then?’
‘Goodbye, Keith.’