Chapter Text
“How certain are you?” Strike’s voice quivered as he repeated the question. Pat frowned as she looked up and tried to get his attention from the other room. “And when did you get this information?”
Pat watched as Strike nodded and grunted in response to the person on the other end. “I think that would be a prudent choice, given this latest development.” Strike paused for a few moments. “Thanks, I owe you one.” As he draw his hand over his face Strike hung up the phone.
Placing a steaming mug of sugary tea on his desk. Pat took the seat opposite it him and held her pen poised to write.
“Who do you need when and where?” She asked making eye contact with him for the first time. Strike eyes lingered on her face, then the tea, and slowly took a sip.
“That was Wardle. It appears DCI Murphy has not disappeared into the sunset with dignity. I think we might have a problem.” He said taking another sip. “Thank you Pat this is good tea.”
“Do you think Dev would be best to help out?” Pat asked her pen tapping on the notepad, just like Robin. Strike nodded in response. “Yes, he might be the best one. Murphy was suspended following the tablets and drugs, but after rehab for drugs and drink he’s back in active duty, some fucking how he has retained his previous rank.” Strike said the disgust evident in his tone. “Wardle thinks he’s got it out for Robin, and over my dead body will he hurt her or my daughter.”
Pat stood from the desk and rubbed Strike’s arm, “we’ll get Dev to tag him next time he’s out. He due to relieve Midge from Cherry Blossom.”
Strike nodded as a thousand thoughts ran through his head. “Robs is away for the weekend at Jonathan’s as I have two all nighters on Pianoman. Not sure why they’ve not closed it yet, I’ll do my bit to train the rest of them.” Pat looked at him confused, “I thought we had a long term contract with them.”
“We do.” Strike said, “but I already know the solution so I’m waiting for the rest of them to catch up.” Pat went to comment but thought better of it. “I’ll give them some insights on Monday and make sure we are done by next weekend. Cherry blossom on the other hand is confusing.” he muttered trailing off at the end of the conversation. “I’ll speak to Dev and get things in motion.” Pat said standing and placing a comforting hand on his shoulder.
With a short nod in repos e she left Strike to his thoughts, turning the light off as she went.