When they arrived outside Kate’s building, Maggie and Kat were surprised at the number of reporters. ‘What the hell? We’ve only been out of the office for forty minutes. How did the news travel so fast?’ Maggie received a text and when she saw who it was from, it all became clear.
Have you watched the news at noon? I got an exclusive feature. Thanks for making that happen. If you’re free this weekend, the drinks are on me. X Jules
When had she become Jules? Maggie shook her head. ‘Looks like the guv updated Ms Noble pretty sharp. There was a feature on telly about fifteen minutes ago according to the text I just read.’ They’d have to be careful how they managed this with Kate. No doubt she would be well aware of the situation and she hoped that the FLO had at least had the opportunity to lessen the blow.
They exited the vehicle and pushed their way through the crowd of people, avoiding the flashes and questions as they walked up the stairs and into the building. Maggie glanced at the neighbour’s door and shuddered. Memories of where it had started flashed through her mind; she could only imagine how Kate must be feeling.
DC Everett knocked gently on Kate’s door. The FLO answered and ushered them in, closing the door behind them. ‘They’re just through there.’ He pointed in the direction of the kitchen.
Icy stares from Kate’s parents greeted them.
‘Hi, Mr and Mrs Moloney, Kate. I’d ask how you’re all feeling but I think I may know.’
‘You think you may know? You haven’t the slightest idea how any of us are feeling! Who do you think—?’ Kate’s hand rested on her father’s arm.
‘It’s OK, Da. This isn’t Maggie’s or the police’s fault.’ Kate motioned for Maggie to follow. ‘Let’s talk in here.’
‘I’m so sorry about all this. I guess you’ve heard the news.’ Maggie didn’t like how calm Kate appeared. ‘It’s OK to be pissed off, even if it’s at me. I understand.’
Kate sat down. ‘I’ve nothing to be mad about, do I? He was dying of cancer anyway, and it all makes sense now. His diagnosis must have been what triggered this whole series of unfortunate events. I have an answer now. It had nothing to do with me and who’s to say he would have even made it to trial? I’m just glad it’s over and I can begin to move forward. I do feel sorry for Tracy Holloway’s and Kelsey Gilbey’s families though. I think they’ll find it a lot harder than I will to get closure.’
‘Can I be frank?’ Maggie needed to say what was on her mind.
Kate nodded.
‘I’m a little concerned by how well you’re taking all this.’
‘For my own sanity, I just have to accept the outcome and move on. Making the decision to be away from everything and back home with my parents for a while will help with the healing. I know a few good counsellors I can speak to as well. I just need to be as far away from here as possible right now. In fact, I’ve handed in my notice to the landlord. I can’t live here after all that’s happened.’
‘Does that mean you might be back?’
‘I could be. Could I ask a favour?’ Kate shifted in her seat.
‘Of course.’
‘Can I leave Salem with you while I sort all this out? I don’t want to uproot him and cause him stress while I’m figuring out what’s next. It might be for about a month. Would that be OK?’
Maggie reached across and squeezed Kate’s hand. ‘Of course. However long you need.’ On a more selfish note, Maggie reasoned that while she had Salem, there was always the chance that Kate would be back.
‘Thanks. That’s one pressure off my mind. What happens with the case then?’ Kate crossed her legs.
‘We’ll still need a statement from you. To close off everything. I know it’s not the best timing, but could you do that?’
‘I’ve already written out a statement.’ Kate’s lip curled. ‘It’s in the kitchen. I’ll grab it for you before you leave.’
Maggie wasn’t surprised by this. Kate, even under pressure, was always efficient.
There was an awkward silence. Maggie felt like this was the end of something and didn’t want to be the first to speak. DC Everett walked in and helped move things forward.
‘Fuck. What a mess, eh? I hope you’re OK. Your parents just handed me this envelope. Said that you wrote up your statement in the hospital. Is it OK for us to take this? I got the impression your parents want us to get the hell out of your hair.’ DC Everett looked at Maggie and Kate.
Kate laughed. ‘Ahh yes. They’re a little on edge and want me back in Ireland like yesterday. You should have everything you need there.’ Kate changed the subject. ‘So, what’s on the cards for the team now?’
‘Well Lucy wants us all to help out with the hostel. It’s officially opening next week, so she’s invited us all to pop round over the weekend.’
‘That’s grand! I’m sorry to be missing that – be sure to take some pictures and send them on. I’ll drop her a line when I’m settled, but let her know I’ll be thinking of her.’ Kate tucked her hair behind her ear. ‘Well, I guess you need to get back to work, and I have some packing to do.’
DC Everett hugged Kate and wished her well. Inside Maggie screamed – it was so unfair that Luke Bradford had won, even though his death might mean Kate wouldn’t have to suffer through a long trial.
Kate approached Maggie. They looked at each other, sad smiles adorning their faces. ‘Is this goodbye then?’
‘I never say goodbye, DC Jamieson.’ Kate winked. ‘I hear you might have an opening on your team for a criminal psychologist in a month or so.’
‘And I know just the person for that vacancy.’ The pair hugged and Maggie’s heart felt a little lighter.