Turn a Blind Eye

31

‘Ten years,’ said the commander, ‘thanks to two five-pound notes, and Inspector Warwick being half awake.’ The Hawk’s idea of a compliment. ‘And thanks to the rest of the team, DI Castle has taken early retirement. And perhaps equally important, forty-three other Metropolitan Police officers have handed in their notice. Congratulations on a job well done.’

‘But Lamont got clean away,’ said Paul.

‘Just give me time,’ said William, almost spitting out the words.

‘I’m afraid not, William. You’re going to have to leave that to your successor, because the commissioner in his wisdom has decreed that any unit investigating corrupt officers cannot be staffed by the same team for more than one major investigation, for fear that its members become cut off from the rest of their colleagues, and have difficulty returning to normal duties. And I agree with him.’

‘Perhaps we should all take early retirement?’ suggested William.

‘Not a hope, detective chief inspector,’ said the Hawk, sitting back and waiting to see who would be the first to react.

Paul began banging the table with the palm of his hand, and Jackie and Rebecca quickly followed.

‘Congratulations, chief inspector,’ said the Hawk, after the acclamation had died down. As William didn’t respond, he added, ‘And I know you’ll be glad to hear that the rest of the team will be joining you in your new assignment.’

‘Dare I ask what you have in mind for us, sir?’ asked Detective Chief Inspector Warwick.

‘Murder,’ said the commander, and then let the idea sink in for a few moments to see how they’d react.

‘I think I preferred Art and Antiques,’ said Jackie.

‘Of blessed memory,’ said the Hawk.

‘Or even drugs,’ said Paul.

‘That’s as may be,’ said the commander. ‘But if you’re the best you end up being assigned the worst, because your first task will be to investigate five people who have quite literally got away with murder. However, I’ll allow you to indulge yourselves for a few days, before you report back for your new assignment on Monday morning. Eight o’clock sharp.’

‘Does that mean we get the rest of the week off?’ asked Paul.

‘I’m amazed you need a razor in the mornings, DS Adaja, you’re so sharp. Yes, take some time off, you’ve earned it. If you decide to go out and celebrate, the first round’s on me.’

‘Did I hear you correctly, sir?’ said Paul.

‘You did. And don’t forget, I have the authority to demote as well as promote. So for you, DS Adaja, it’s either back on the beat or murder. Take your pick. But for now, I don’t want to see any of you in the office until next Monday. With the exception of DC Pankhurst, the rest of you can bugger off.’

William gathered up his files and joined the others as they left the room. He didn’t mention that he, for one, wouldn’t be taking the rest of the week off, as he still had another private matter to deal with.

The Hawk waited until the rest of the team had left before he spoke to Rebecca. ‘Despite the team’s triumph, DC Pankhurst, in which you played a crucial role, I think there will be one person who’s unlikely to be celebrating. Though I don’t pretend to understand it, I suspect PC Bailey is still besotted with Summers. However, I need you to tell her that as far as I’m concerned, the case is closed, and there are no plans to take any further action against her.’

‘She’ll be so relieved,’ said Rebecca. ‘Thank you, sir.’

‘Let’s hope she’ll be able to find another job.’

‘She’s already been offered a position as an investigator in Clare’s office.’

‘Which she’s well qualified for,’ said Hawksby. ‘But for now, I’d like you to take her out for a drink and try to convince her she has every reason to celebrate. You’ve proved a loyal friend, DC Pankhurst, and she was lucky to have you on her side.’

Rebecca returned to the office to find her colleagues already in a party mood.

‘Will you be joining us at the pub, Rebecca?’ asked Jackie.

‘Thanks, but I have to go home,’ she said, without explanation.

William gave her a warm smile, aware of the task she faced.

Rebecca decided to walk back to Pimlico, as she wanted a little time to compose her thoughts. She needed to convince Nicky she had done the right thing by giving evidence against her former lover, and it was now time for her to move on.

By the time she reached the front door, Rebecca was well prepared to deal with the tears, the recriminations, and hopefully the relief. She put her key in the lock, and smiled when she opened the door and heard the baby crying. She was so proud that Nicky had invited her to be one of Jake’s godparents.

As she climbed the stairs to the first floor, the crying became even louder. She knocked on Nicky’s door. Not waiting for a reply, she walked in to find her friend curled up on the floor, two empty bottles of barbiturates by her side. Jake was still crying.

‘Ten years for stealing a ring worth three grand?’ said Miles. ‘I don’t believe it.’

‘What’s more,’ said Booth Watson, ‘a ring that had already been stolen by a burglar who only got two years.’

‘How’s that possible?’

‘Summers was a serving police officer at the time. If only I’d paid for lunch...’

‘That would be a first,’ said Miles. ‘Whenever I have a meal with you, not only do I end up paying the bill, but you then send me an invoice for a “consultation”. Breakfast one hour, lunch two hours, and three for dinner. BW, you’ve brought a new meaning to the word “refreshers”.’

‘It’s not my fault you can’t be bothered to attend chambers,’ countered Booth Watson. ‘In any case, you always have a reason for wanting to see me. So what is it this time?’ he asked, before dropping another lump of sugar in his coffee.

‘I wanted to make sure you’d sorted out Christina?’

‘On several levels,’ replied Booth Watson. ‘Where would you like me to start?’

‘Was she able to convince her friend Beth Warwick to bid for Raphael’s Madonna di Cesare on behalf of the museum?’

‘Christina even handed her a cheque for a million pounds, which will never be cashed as I will be putting in the final bid for the painting on your behalf. We wouldn’t want the punters to think it might be a fake.’

‘But why bother to involve Christina in the first place, when she could still switch sides and tell her friend Beth Warwick what we are up to?’

‘ “Involved” is the relevant word,’ said Booth Watson. ‘In the 1967 Criminal Justice Act it comes under the heading “aiding and abetting a known criminal”, as I’ll explain to Christina when we next meet. The maximum sentence a judge can award for this offence is six years, which should be more than enough incentive to ensure she keeps her mouth shut.’

‘Point taken,’ said Miles. ‘I have to admit, you’ve earned every penny of your refresher for a change. But I still don’t see why I have to marry the damn woman?’

‘Think of it as an insurance policy,’ said Booth Watson. ‘When Christina realizes she could also face a second charge, “sheltering a known fugitive from the law”, I’ll warn her that for that offence the maximum sentence is at the judge’s discretion.’

‘But that still won’t stop me having to cough up over a million pounds for a fake.’

‘It’s that or spend the next ten years in jail. Your choice.’

‘You’ve convinced me, BW. As I accept that I can’t afford to be seen on the Alden. However, I still need to rescue the rest of my collection from the apartment in New York.’

‘Then you’ll have to fly.’

‘I realize that but I’m still not entirely sure why I had to get Christina to hand over our tickets on the Alden to Beth Warwick.’

‘I want the Warwicks as far away as possible when the wedding takes place, and you plan to move into your new home.’

‘Christina doesn’t know about Barcelona...?’

‘No one knows other than you and me.’

‘Thank God for that. But you’ll still need to draw up a pre-nup,’ said Miles, ‘that leaves Christina in no doubt of the consequences of switching sides.’

‘I’ve already completed the first draft,’ said Booth Watson, ‘so as long as you don’t expect me to act as your best man, my job is done.’

‘Funny you should mention that, BW...’

‘Death is always a great sadness,’ said the priest in a sombre tone. ‘All the more so when it comes to someone so young, with so much unfulfilled potential.

‘Police Constable Nicola Bailey, Nicky, was such a person. She was tipped for a brilliant career in her chosen profession, but sadly that will now never be realized. We can, however, all share in the memory of her undoubted talent, her unquenchable spirit, and her infectious enthusiasm. Those she has left behind will remember her with affection and respect for the rest of their lives.’

The small gathering of mourners who surrounded the grave stood silently in grief as the coffin of Nicola Anne Bailey was lowered into the ground. Rebecca unashamedly wept when the priest offered the final blessing and gave the sign of the cross before the mourners departed. William joined her as they left the graveyard, but didn’t interrupt her thoughts. Grace and Clare accompanied Nicky’s mother back to her little cottage, where they all assembled for tea.

Mrs Bailey was touched that Commander Hawksby joined them, and even more so when he told her what an important role Nicky had played in his team. She couldn’t hide her pride, despite her grief.

Grace and Clare were the last to leave, and after everyone else had departed, Mrs Bailey asked if they could spare a few moments, as she wished to have a private word with them.

‘Of course,’ said Clare.

Mrs Bailey didn’t speak for some time, but when she did, it was clear that she’d given considerable thought to what she was going to say.

‘Nicky admired you both so much,’ she eventually managed, ‘and I’m grateful for all you did for her, especially offering her a job, after all her recent problems.’

‘We never doubted she was a bit special,’ said Clare. ‘That’s why I wanted her to join the firm.’

‘As you know, Nicky hoped the two of you would agree to be Jake’s godparents,’ said Mrs Bailey, ‘along with Paul Adaja.’

‘We were both flattered and delighted when she asked us,’ said Clare.

‘But I wondered, my dears, if I might burden you with an even greater responsibility.’

‘Anything,’ said Grace.

‘How unlike a lawyer to commit themselves before they’ve heard the details, and had at least a month to consider the implications.’

Grace and Clare laughed for the first time that day.

Mrs Bailey fell silent for a moment, before she said, ‘I would like to remove the word “God” from your new title, and for you to become Jake’s foster parents. At my age I’m not capable of raising a young child on my own, and I have no doubt you would make wonderful parents.’

Grace was speechless, but not Clare, who immediately said, ‘Nothing would give us greater pleasure.’

‘Have you been listening to a single thing I’ve been saying?’ said Beth.

‘Every word,’ said William, as he climbed into bed.

‘Then what did I just tell you?’

‘Tomorrow evening, Christie’s will be auctioning Raphael’s Madonna di Cesare. It’s lot number twenty-five.’

‘One out of ten. Try harder.’

‘Christina has authorized you to bid up to a million pounds on her behalf, and if you succeed, the painting will be donated to the Fitzmolean.’

‘Not bad, caveman. But you’re still not off the hook.’

‘She’s given you a cheque for the full amount, but if someone outbids you, you’re to tear it up, and never mention to anyone who you were representing.’

‘Impressive,’ said Beth. William placed a hand on the inside of her thigh, but she removed it as if they were on a first date.

‘And how will I be bidding?’

‘By phone from your office at the Fitzmolean.’

‘I owe you an apology, caveman,’ she said, taking him in her arms. ‘So now all you have to do is wish me luck.’

‘Before I do,’ said William, ignoring her advances, ‘I need you to stop thinking about what’s in it for the gallery, and start thinking about what’s in it for Christina.’

‘Why should I do that?’

‘My darling, I’m well aware that you would happily trample over a thousand dead bodies to get your hands on a minor picture by an obscure Dutch artist for the Fitzmolean, so heaven knows what you’d be willing to do to acquire a Raphael.’

‘Have you forgotten, that’s part of my job description? I’ve already secured a Rembrandt and a Rubens for the museum from the same source, in case you hadn’t noticed.’

‘I did notice, but on both occasions there was something in it for Christina. So what I want to know is, what would she trample over a thousand dead bodies for?’

‘You’ve never liked Christina, have you?’

‘Actually, I do rather like her. I just don’t trust her.’

‘I know she’s not a saint,’ said Beth, ‘but she’s been very generous over the years. Why can’t you give her the benefit of the doubt for once?’

‘Not while she owns several other major works, and her only interest in them in the past has been to find out how much they’re worth. So I have to ask myself, why doesn’t she just offer the Fitzmolean a picture from her late husband’s collection, rather than part with a million pounds of her own money?’

‘She told me she wanted to give the Madonna to the Fitzmolean in memory of Miles.’

‘The only thing she would have been happy to give to the museum in memory of Miles would have been his ashes. So I’m bound to ask, what’s the real reason she wants to buy the painting back?’

‘I don’t know, Chief Inspector Warwick. But why are you always so suspicious of other people’s motives, particularly Christina’s?’

‘That’s part of my job description, I’m afraid. But let me ask you another question. Why does Christina need you to bid on her behalf, when she could so easily do it herself?’

‘That’s easy to answer. She’ll be in Monte Carlo on the evening of the sale.’

‘They don’t have phones in Monte Carlo?’

‘She doesn’t want anyone else to know she’s bidding.’

‘Like who?’

‘Tim Knox, for example.’

‘That doesn’t make any sense. He’s the director of the gallery and you should certainly let him know what she’s asked you to do. If anything goes wrong, he’ll never trust you again, and you might even lose your job.’

‘But Christina would never forgive me if I broke my word.’

‘Then perhaps you should ask yourself why she chose you, and even more important, who’s the seller?’

‘The Brompton Oratory,’ said Beth. ‘They need the money for a new roof.’

‘Now that’s something I do believe. But who gave the painting to them in the first place? Because it certainly wasn’t Miles Faulkner, who worshipped Mammon, not God.’

‘In the catalogue it’s described as The Property of a Lady, which usually means the owner doesn’t want their name revealed.’

‘If you can find out who the mystery lady is, I suspect you’ll also discover why Christina wants you to be seen buying the painting.’

‘What makes you so convinced of that?’ asked Beth.

‘The Brompton Oratory just happens to be the church where the late Mrs Rashidi worshipped, when she lived in The Boltons.’

‘That could just be a coincidence,’ said Beth, trying to distract him.

It was William’s turn to remove a hand.

‘Is it also a coincidence that the late Assem Rashidi was in Pentonville at the same time as Miles Faulkner, the previous owner of the Raphael?’

‘What does that prove?’

‘I don’t know, but it might explain why Christina doesn’t want anyone else except you to know that she’s the buyer.’

‘But if I do get the painting for a million or less, your theory bites the dust, and you with it!’

‘Agreed.’

‘In which case Christina is a saint, and you’re just a boring old cynic.’

‘Christina’s no saint, and there’s only one way we’re going to find out if I’m a boring old cynic.’

‘Enlighten me,’ said Beth, imitating the Hawk.

‘While you’re at the gallery bidding over the phone on Christina’s behalf, I’ll be at Christie’s, and I can assure you, I won’t be looking at the auctioneer.’ William turned out the light and began to move a hand up the inside of Beth’s thigh.

‘Interesting what turns you on, caveman.’