Page 62 of Guilty Mothers
The reporter shot daggers her way, but she was lucky to have what she did.
‘You’ve got my number, Katie,’ Frost said, putting her Dictaphone into her bag. ‘Anything you need give me a call.’
‘Thanks,’ she offered weakly.
With a final side eye at Kim, Frost let herself out the front door.
‘So, how are you really?’ Kim asked, once they were alone.
‘The honest answer is empty,’ Katie said, rubbing at her head with her hands. ‘It really feels that all this happened to someone else. A part of me is sure that if I go over there, she’ll still be alive.’
‘Katie, can I ask you a question?’ Kim said.
‘Of course.’
‘Did you resent your mum for the pageant years?’
Katie didn’t appear surprised by the question, but Kim had still detected that slight stiffening at the mention of her mum.
‘Sometimes, but I resent her more for being a heartless, selfish bitch.’
‘Katie…’
‘I’m tired, Inspector.’
The wall was back up, and Katie was positioned safely behind it.
Kim stood and reached for her jacket.
‘May I ask you one question before you go, Inspector?’
‘Of course.’
‘When can I have the house back?’
Kim hid her surprise. ‘I’m not sure how much longer forensics will want it, but most likely just another few days.’
‘Just time to pack,’ she said, following Kim to the door.
‘You want to move back in?’
‘Of course. It’s my home.’
‘We’ll let you know,’ Kim said, stepping outside.
Katie thanked her and closed the door.
Despite Judith’s advice, it looked as though Katie was unable to leave the past behind her. According to the neighbour, Katie had still visited Sheryl if not often, at least regularly. She had not been able to sever that tie with the only family member she had. Kim guessed that moving back into the family home reflected that same need for familiarity.
‘So, what’s going on, Stone?’ Frost asked, appearing from behind a conifer tree.
‘Jesus, are you trying to give me a heart attack? Why the hell are you still lurking around?’
‘Figured you’d be out soon enough. So, what’s the story?’
‘About what?’ Kim asked, heading for her car.
‘Her mum. There’s something more there.’