‘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.