Page 6 of 36 Hours
Yes, he was closing them down, officially.
‘Now I’ve seen it all,’ Frost said, reaching for her jacket. ‘Someone you actually listen to, Stone.’
‘And that would be because he has my trust and respect. Unlike some people.’
She turned to her team. ‘You heard the man. We’re officially shut down, so feel free to resume your Sunday activities.’
‘Car boot will be packed by now,’ Penn offered.
‘Devon’s at work,’ Stacey said.
‘Garden work with Jenny,’ Bryant said with a mischievous grin.
Frost stayed quiet but sat back down, which kind of said it all.
No one made a move to leave, and all eyes were upon Kim.
‘Okay, everyone, get a drink and let’s make a start.’
SIX
6.50A.M.
‘So, ground rules, folks. It appears we’re stuck with Frost for the time being, so I insist you treat her with the respect she deserves. Rotten veg and grotty water will be supplied on request.’
‘Funny,’ Frost said with an eyeroll.
‘Sticking with you, Frost, is there anything at all that might have prompted someone to have a joke at your expense? I’m not even gonna ask if you’ve pissed anyone off cos we ain’t got that kind of time, but is there anyone you’ve pissed off more than normal?’
‘Not that I’m aware of.’
‘Well, you’ve been chosen for a reason, so I want a printed copy of every article you’ve written in the last three months and a list of every place you’ve visited.’
‘You really need all that?’ Frost asked, reaching for the laptop they’d collected en route to the station.
‘Probably not all of it, but it’ll keep you out of trouble for the foreseeable future.’
‘While you’re on me can I ask a question?’ Frost asked.
‘Make it quick.’
‘He’s made it clear that I’m to write articles every six hours beginning at midday. What am I allowed to share and what am I not?’
‘Decent question,’ Kim said, taking a minute to think. ‘You just need to keep it as vague as possible. You can mention the places we’ve been but nothing that reveals who or how we’re investigating. Clear?’
Frost rolled her eyes. ‘Oh yeah.’
Kim turned to the team. ‘Thoughts?’
‘I don’t think it’s a joke,’ Penn offered.
‘Go on,’ Kim said.
‘This message is too well thought out. He’s used it to communicate his intentions. He’s not seeking or begging for attention. It’s almost like the game is going ahead whether we like it or not.’
‘Exactly,’ Kim agreed, even though Stacey and Bryant still looked doubtful.
‘For the purpose of moving forward, we’re gonna assume this isn’t a hoax and that bad things are going to happen if we don’t stop them. With that in mind, what questions should we be asking?’