Page 34 of The Girl in the Woods

Beth raised her eyebrows. ‘Why would you want to do that? That case is closed, Ana.’

‘I won’t step on anyone’s toes,’ said Ana quickly.

‘Do you think we missed something?’

Ana blushed. ‘No, of course not. I’m out of line, sorry.’

Ana turned to leave when Beth said, ‘Why the interest?’

Ana licked her lips. ‘I met her today, and it seemed so wrong that whoever did that is walking free.’

Beth nodded thoughtfully. ‘Just don’t waste too much time on it.’

‘No, ma’am, thank you, ma’am.’

Beth busied herself with some paperwork, but she couldn’t concentrate on it. From the corner of her eye, she could see the chief approaching her office with Tom. Then the door opened, and Tom was standing in front of her. A tingling swept up the back of her neck and into her face.

‘I parked in a visitor space,’ he said, smiling. ‘Before you have a go at me.’

Beth felt herself relax. ‘Pleased to hear it.’

He’d gained some weight, and his hair was slightly shorter, but aside from that, he hadn’t changed much at all.

‘You look well,’ he said.

Beth smiled. ‘Bloody liar. Everyone’s been telling me how crap I look.’

‘Maybe they can get away with it.’ He grinned.

The chief said, ‘I’ve assigned DI Miller to Stephen’s office. I’ll leave it to you to update him.’

‘Fine,’ said Tom.

God, Beth thought, he’s better looking than I remember.

‘So, how are you really?’ he asked.

‘I’m fine,’ she lied. ‘A few grey hairs, but…’

He nodded, and she could tell he didn’t believe her.

‘Where are you staying, Tom?’

‘Same place.’

‘Lots of memories,’ she said, reflecting. ‘Still enjoying the cemetery?’

‘I like the view and the church bells.’

Beth lowered her head.

‘You saved my life,’ he said quietly.

‘You were bloody ungrateful,’ she said.

He laughed. ‘Good, back on form, I see. Right, fill me in.’

‘It’s good to have you back,’ she said quietly.

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