“But you doubt it?”
“I honestly don’t know, Rayah. The house could’ve been targeted by a firebug who just wanted to see flames. That isn’t unheard of round here. Or it could’ve been someone trying to dispose of her remains. The fire took away any evidence, so maybe we’ll never know.” His hand touched the small of her back and she felt his warmth, a shiver electrifying her spine. Their kiss had changed everything and nothing at all. She still liked him hugely, as much as she had done for the last year, two years even. Just now it was more intense. There was a chance of something between them, which meant there was also the chance he could break her heart.
“Happy Saturday, Jonny.”
She vaguely recognised the big guy standing in front of them with a wry smile cutting through his dense beard. It was Alex’s boss, a man who lived just outside of Severton in a remote cottage. He was an odd soul, according to Alex, but good at his job.
“How’s it going?” Jonny offered his hand and the detective took it. “This is Rayah Maynard – we’re off for lunch at the pub. Everything in order?”
Detective McKay – at least that was what Rayah thought he was called – nodded. “Will signed off your part, so we’re clear here. Forensics could’ve released the site weeks ago, but we just thought he may have been back.”
“He might still.”
McKay shrugged. “We’ll see. Something isn’t sitting right with me about this. Something just feels weird. But that isn’t enough to arrest anybody on. Or even find someone.” He looked at Jonny. “I believe you’re in the running for promotion?”
Rayah swung her head round. This was news to her.
Jonny grinned. “I heard the same rumour.”
“Heard it was more than a rumour. Kenny’s retiring so they’re looking for an area manager.”
“It depends on who else applies for it. There will be applicants from other areas. It’s a good place to live.”
McKay laughed. “Congratulations.” He slapped Jonny on the back. “And your colleague over there will make sure your station stays in good hands.”
Rayah saw Will standing next to one of the station’s vehicles, clutching a flash. He waved but made no attempt to walk over, his eyes carrying on with scanning papers.
“See you later, Gerry. Let me know if you hear any more rumours.” Jonny tapped his shoulder and headed off towards his colleague.
Rayah followed, curiosity widening her eyes and her head full of thoughts that were tussling for attention.
“Promotion?” she said, keeping up with his long legs as he headed to Will.
“I’ll talk to you about it over lunch. McKay is an old gossip. How’s it going, man?” He clasped Will’s hand.
“I’m still completely fucking stumped over this.” Will shook his head before his eyes fell on Rayah. “He’s dragged you out here? Don’t you have anything better to do with your Saturday?”
She leaned in to accept the kiss Will was offering her cheek. The couple of dates they’d had were fun and interesting, but she couldn’t imagine herself in bed with him. The only man she’d be able to picture in her spank bank had been Jonny, how his hands had felt on her. And his mouth. “We’re going for lunch.”
Will raised his brows. “Really? With him?”
Rayah laughed. “I need to help him out with his maths so he can manage Charlie’s homework.”
Will looked at Jonny and laughed. “Lucky you. If I ever have kids I’ll need a teacher to move in and help with all that shit.
“I’ve signed everything off that needed to be done. This was just to tick a box.”
“Good work.” Jonny looked round. “What’ve the owners said about the land?”
“Nothing. They’re not interested. There was no insurance on the property, as you’d expect with it being in ruins for so long and the land isn’t farmable any more. They might sell the land to someone wanting to build a guesthouse or another pub, café type place, but it’s whether planning permission would be granted or not for that.” He stuffed the paperwork onto the passenger seat of the truck. “It matters not. And maybe we’ll never know what actually happened out here, unless there’s another fire.”
“Let’s hope we never find out. You need me to do anything?” Jonny pointed into the car.
“No, man. It’s all good and I have a week’s leave now, so the ship’s all yours. Let me know about the job. See you later, Rayah.” He strode off to the other side of the vehicle and got in.
“Let’s eat. I’m starving.” Jonny’s hand went onto her shoulder, a friendly gesture.
Rayah grinned. “You’re always starving. You always were. I remember you eating all of my dinner once.”
