Echoes of Justice (DI Matt Turrell Book 2)

by JJ Franklin

  After the doctor had left, Kathy realised she was going to be late for the theatre.

  Chapter 78

  Vinny had arrived at Kathy’s house at seven fifteen but there was no response to his pressing of the bell. Checking that no one was watching, he looked around the back, but could find no means of entry except for putting a brick through a window. In case she was a heavy sleeper, he decided to stick around, but needed to do this without arousing suspicion. Spotting a crew from the water board setting up a little way down the road, he strolled towards them.

  ‘Hi, mate. Cold enough for you?’

  ‘Bollocks and frozen come to mind.’

  ‘Know the feeling. My mate’s always bloody late, supposed to pick me up at seven fifteen. Mind if I wait in the cab?’

  ‘Sure, help yourself.’

  ‘Thanks.’

  From his seat in the water board lorry, Vinny watched as fifteen minutes later a patrol car called at the house, followed soon after by an unmarked police car that pulled into the driveway of Kathy’s house. The tall detective he’d seen at Jon’s funeral rang the bell while his colleague, a tasty blonde, went around the back. He was pleased to see the cop got no response either. Then the neighbour came out, followed soon afterwards by his wife, who took the cops into the house.

  The detectives drove away, and he wished he knew where they were headed. If only he had a car, he would have followed them. Deciding he’d be better off seeking out Harry, he climbed out of the warm cab. Chances are he’d still be at college. Vinny knew from experience how family and friends preferred you to be somewhere else after you got on the wrong side of the law. He called to the workers. ‘Thanks, mate. Think the bugger’s forgotten me, so I’m off home.’

  One of the workers called back, ‘Don’t blame you. Wish I could do the same.’

  With a wave of his hand, Vinny snuggled down into his coat and headed for the college. He missed having Dan to boss around, but the little rat scuttled after Ops. At least he’d left the parting gift of where to find Kathy and Harry, no doubt to keep him sweet in case the chance of a berth in Spain came up again. Ops, blast him, had withdrawn all his help, except the offer of getting him back to Spain and Vinny figured that was only to be rid of him. The pickup was ten thirty tonight, giving Vinny only a few hours left to avenge his son. The thought motivated him and he increased his stride while trying to figure out a way of getting into the college and at Harry. Passing a newsagent, the Christmas display gave him an idea and he went in to buy a large tin of Quality Street before continuing.

  Vinny checked out the accommodation block from the main road. The college was bound to have security but he couldn’t see any sign. Moving to the entrance, he could see it needed a code. He waited until a giggling group of Chinese girls came out.

  Holding the tin of chocolates, he explained he was Harry’s uncle and he wanted to surprise him with a Christmas treat. There was some conferring between the students, none of which he could understand, before one pointed to the second floor.

  ‘Number forty-two.’

  Vinny thanked them with a smile while holding the door open. As soon as they left, he bounded up the stairs. Hearing nothing from Harry’s room, he decided to take a look now he was here. The door was no problem and he picked the lock in record time. Inside it was smaller than his last prison cell with little more than a bed and a desk. Disappointed, he placed the tin on the desk, next to a flyer for something called Open House dated this evening. Underneath was a musical score for The Pirates of Penzance. Harry might not be in his room, but he knew where he would be tonight.

  Vinny heard footsteps in the corridor and stood still. The steps stopped outside and Vinny cursed, knowing the door was unlocked. He moved to stand behind the door, fingering the gun in his pocket. If this was some friend of Harry’s then he should be able to fob them off with his story of delivering a Christmas present. Someone knocked and he heard the key in the lock.

  ‘Harry, its DS Withers.’

  Blast. What were the bloody police doing here? Vinny withdrew the gun and waited, watching the handle turn. Would the bastard be alone? If he stayed hidden behind the door, maybe he would give the room a quick glance, realise Harry wasn’t there and bugger off.

  ‘Harry?’

  The cop took two steps into the room and began to turn. Vinny raised the butt of the gun and aimed for the head, striking hard so that the man crashed to the floor. Kicking his legs out of the way, Vinny hurried to shut the door.

  Looking down at him, he wondered what to do next. Cops were like rats: where you found one, another one would be around, maybe waiting outside or in the corridor. He bent down to turn the man over, causing him to moan. Vinny waited in case he was coming round, prepared to strike again, but he appeared to be out cold, so he rifled through his pockets, taking his mobile phone and warrant card.

  With another kick to the torso, Vinny turned to leave, catching his toe against something metal. Bending to pick it up, he saw it was the key to the room. Even better, he’d lock the bastard in.

  Chapter 79

  The maternity ward had its own special smell above the usual hospital odours of disinfectant. Matt guessed it was something to do with the babies – maybe milk or powder. He asked for Tilly Rowlands at reception and a nurse took him to a small ward. Before they entered, Matt asked, ‘Is Miss Rowlands alright?’ The picture of Mary James still preoccupied him and he needed to be prepared.

  ‘See for yourself.’ The nurse held open the door and moved to one side. Matt entered, relieved to see Tilly sitting up in bed smiling. She didn’t look like a woman who’d just lost her baby.

  ‘Inspector.’ Tilly reached out to him. ‘I’ve had a little boy.’

  Matt moved to sit beside her, feeling out of his depth. ‘I’m so pleased. Is he doing well?’

  ‘He’s fine. They said he was protected from the cold inside me. He’s in an incubator as he’s early. Nick’s with him.’

  ‘I’m so relieved. Didn’t think either of us was going to make it at one point.’

  ‘Thank you for saving our lives.’

  ‘Just wish we could have got there sooner so you didn’t have to go through that.’

  ‘Have you caught him yet?’

  ‘No, but we’re getting closer.’

  ‘He’s out to get Harry and that man’s mother…the one…I thought I’d better tell you.’

  ‘Thank you. Do you feel up to giving us more details about what happened? It could help us apprehend Mr James. I could send a female officer if you’d prefer it.’ From the look on her face, it was as if Matt had physically struck her. He glanced at the nurse for help.

  ‘Maybe later, Inspector.’

  ‘That’s fine. At least we are aware of Mr James’s plans.’

  ‘I’m glad. I wouldn’t want anyone else to go through what…’

  Tilly began to cry and Matt could see how fragile she really was. He was at a loss and was relieved when the nurse spoke.

  ‘Now, now, you’re worrying the inspector. He’d never guess you have a wonderful little boy, now, would he?’

  ‘I’m sorry.’

  Matt stood, hoping to escape. ‘No need, you’ve been through a lot.’

  Through her tears, Tilly struggled to speak. ‘I wanted to ask you something.’

  ‘Yes.’

  ‘Can we name the baby after you?’

  It came as a complete shock to Matt and he sat down again. The nurse laughed. ‘But you don’t even know my name.’

  ‘Someone said it was Matt, Matthew, and we both like that. Please say yes. It would be our way of thanking you.’

  ‘She’s very determined, Inspector. I would just give in.’

  ‘Well, yes, of course. I’d be honoured.’

  Matt walked out of the ward in a daze, thinking of the tiny baby boy now stuck with his
name. He couldn’t wait to tell Eppie.

  Chapter 80

  This was the day. Harry woke feeling both excited and scared about the coming performance to reopen the RSC theatre. At the dress rehearsal yesterday they’d worked on the magnificent thrust stage. That was such a thrill. They must have the best sound system and today he hoped to get a look at it, betting they wouldn’t have to wave a piece of tin to create thunder.

  He couldn’t help thinking of Kathy and wondering if she’d make it today. According to Ida, one of her grandchildren had been ill yesterday. And would she really hand herself in after the concert? It would take the pressure off the rest of them, yet she was only in this position because of what they did, and he couldn’t decide what he wanted. When she’d said she liked him, despite his involvement in the death of her son, he’d been shocked. Not many people in Harry’s life were so accepting; his parents, for example. Maybe he wasn’t all bad. On the down days, that would be good to remember.

  Despite their differences, he liked Kathy. The anger he’d felt over Dave’s death had gone, yet Tilly and her baby were another thing. Nick would never forgive him if they didn’t pull through and he’d been on edge ever since hearing of Tilly’s ordeal. Maybe if she and the baby were both alright, Nick would forgive him for putting them in danger.

  Harry decided he would talk to Kathy today, try to change her mind. She was only giving herself up so they would be out of danger. How could she do that after the pain they had caused? On the twelve o’clock news, he’d seen a warning about Vinny James. Maybe he would be caught soon and Kathy would reconsider handing herself in.

  Glancing at his watch, he began to get ready, intending to treat himself to a late lunch at McDonald’s before heading to the theatre. Showered and ready to go and with his costume over his arm, he left his friend’s room on the ground floor and waited near the entrance so he could leave with a group of students heading into town. Reaching the American fountain in Rother Street, he glanced around and not seeing anyone suspicious, left the group to make his way down Bridge Street.

  After a Big Mac and fries, Harry headed the short distance along Waterside to the theatre and joined the G&S group waiting to be led backstage. Harry looked around for Kathy but couldn’t see her. He tried to get close to Ida but as the group compressed into the narrow passages and corridors backstage, it was impossible.

  Entering the Swan Theatre, their guide explained this is where they were to stay until their time to perform. The G&S group settled themselves in the stalls, a few rows back from the stage, and began to get into their costumes. Some of the women, including Ida, opted to change in the toilets so Harry still couldn’t ask her about Kathy.

  As he changed, he wondered if Vinny had caught up with her and hoped this wasn’t the reason she was late.

  Chapter 81

  Sam struggled to sit up, holding his head and fighting the need to throw up. Grasping the waste paper basket, he heaved into it and leaned back against the desk, head spinning. How long had he been unconscious? It was now two twenty so it couldn’t be that long. He tried to think back and could remember entering the room, but after that, it went hazy. There had been someone behind the door who’d hit him over the head. From the brief glimpse, Sam couldn’t be sure if it had been Vinny James, but odds on it would be him. He must let Matt know.

  Reaching for his phone, he couldn’t find it, even after crawling around in case it had fallen out of his pocket. Struggling to his feet and holding onto the desk to steady himself, he managed the few steps to the door. Tugging at the handle, he couldn’t comprehend why it wouldn’t open. He remembered security giving him a key but he’d found the door open. Where was the key? Searching the floor again caused searing pain to shoot through his head and he stopped, realising the door must be locked from the outside. Now he was in trouble. Banging on the door, despite the pain it caused, brought no response so he sat on the edge of the desk to contemplate his situation.

  Surely security would wonder why he hadn’t returned, but then the man had been busy directing some workmen when Sam arrived. Deciding he might be better attracting attention via the window, he moved towards it. The movement made him throw up again and he took the basket with him, glad it wasn’t an open weave design. Looking out at the empty car park, he didn’t bother opening the window, deciding the door was his only chance.

  Searching through the desk drawers brought forth a Swiss penknife. Opening the various implements, he wondered if he would be able to pick the lock with any of them. Feeling unsteady, he dragged the chair to the door and sat down to concentrate on the lock.

  Chapter 82

  Stamping his feet in an effort to keep warm, Vinny watched as people carrying costumes walked up the steps to enter the Swan Theatre. Ten minutes later, he was beginning to feel uneasy and his toes were turning to ice. By now, Mary could have called the police and although it was only a domestic, it would increase the surveillance for him. The last thing he needed was to be standing here on the street corner.

  Kathy and Harry were probably already inside and that is where he needed to be. He fingered the gun, now tucked into his belt; the cold metal gave him comfort. As long as he had his friend, no one could stop him. He was thankful that the police in England didn’t carry guns.

  Walking up the steps of the Swan Theatre, he could see a bar to his left. It was surprisingly quiet considering all the people he’d seen entering. Following the chatter of voices, he found himself in a wide space that led to the main theatre. It was full of excited people. Hating crowds, he wanted to push people out of the way, but instead forced himself to smile and nod.

  The crowd thinned and he became aware that some of the people were disappearing through an opening in the shiny wall. As he watched, a panel slid open and a young woman with a clipboard took some of the people through the gap. The group kept close together and when the last one had entered, the opening disappeared. Seeing this performance repeated, Vinny realised if he wanted to get in, he needed to attach himself to a group. Taking off his coat, he moved next to an elderly man, leaned against the wall and smiled. ‘Exciting, isn’t it?’

  ‘Yes, and such a privilege. We’ll be testing out the whole theatre, you know?’

  ‘Hope we get it right.’

  ‘I’m sure we will after all those rehearsals.’ The man squinted at him. ‘I don’t think I know you, young man.’

  Vinny extended his hand. ‘John. Helen’s husband.’

  Shifting his costume and bag to the other hand, the man shook his hand.

  ‘Here, let me take those.’ Vinny lifted the costume and bag from him and smiled.

  ‘Thank you. They were starting to feel like lead.’

  ‘No problem.’

  The panel opened and his group surged forward. Vinny stayed at the end, close to the man, holding the costume like a badge. Everyone was excited and eager to get inside and no one turned to see or question him. Their guide led them through the backstage area where the height and space seemed enormous, then into a darker, smaller area where the only light came from an electronic board that flashed in various colours. Although their leader warned them to be careful, coming from the bright into the dark, they still bumped into each other.

  Exiting into a corridor with lockers and toilets, she paused. ‘Hello, has everyone caught up?’

  Vinny stayed close to the elderly man as some of the group glanced around. He held his breath and was relieved when no one ousted him as an imposter.

  The guide continued. ‘With such a large group of performers, we have given the use of the dressing rooms upstairs to the youngsters. You, together with the other adult groups, will change in the Swan Theatre. Just find yourself a space in the audience section and stay together. Toilets are on your left in this corridor.’

  Following her, the group slowed to turn right into a dim, narrow corridor, before going up a few steps a
nd disappearing. Stumbling along at the end of the queue, Vinny heard gasps of delight from those in front. Wondering what it was all about, he stepped through the opening and was horrified to find himself standing on a large stage surrounded by tiered galleries that glared down on him with empty black eyes.

  Feeling exposed, he thrust the costume and bag at the old man. ‘Here, mate, got to go to the loo,’ he said before shooting back down the steps into the welcome dimness.

  Chapter 83

  Leaving the hospital still feeling bemused, Matt headed back to CID to reunite with Jane and check on progress. He was in the middle of telling her about Tilly’s decision when a call came in from PC Baker.

  ‘Hello, Charlie.’

  ‘Sir, I’m here at the minor injuries unit in Stratford with DS Withers. He’s been struck on the back of the head. We found him in Harry’s room at the college. I’ve sealed off the room and left my colleague on guard in case you want to get forensics to take a look.’

  ‘Well done, Charlie. How’s Sam?’

  ‘He’s seen the nurse and is waiting for the doctor. They are talking about possible concussion.’

  ‘Okay. I’ll be there soon. Can you stay with him ’til then?’

  ‘Yes, sir.’

  ‘Thanks.’ Matt brought Jane up to speed and alerted all units to concentrate on the Stratford area. Both Kathy and Harry would be at the concert tonight and he was praying that Vinny hadn’t acquired that knowledge.

  While he went to check on Sam, Matt sent Jane to look at Harry’s room to see if they needed forensics. She’d then continue the search for Kathy and meet them at the theatre later.

  The minor injuries unit at Stratford Hospital was at one end of the two-storey building. PC Baker was pacing in the corridor as Matt entered. ‘How is he?’

  ‘Says he’s fine. The doctor’s with him.’

  ‘Good. Rescuing members of CID is becoming a habit, Charlie. Think we’ll have to make you one of our own.’ From Charlie’s grin, it was obvious he liked this idea. ‘Tell me how you found Sam?’