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.