Murder by Magic (27 page)

‘It
was dangerous, Guv.’

‘Aye,
happen it was – but once I saw you – like
that
– how
could I have left you?’

Though
she still snuggles in Skelgill’s oversized clothes he casts a hand at her
– and she understands he refers to the revealing white robe she had worn. 
She sees that there is a strained look in his eyes as he regards her curled
form.  She raises herself to free her legs from beneath her, and now
stretches her toes out towards him.

‘It
was Mrs Robinson that got me dressed, Guv – she tricked me with a laced
drink – and I just kind of felt myself doing what she wanted.’

Skelgill
has been holding her gaze – but his expression becomes increasingly pained
and he turns to stare into the depths of the fire.

‘I
know it doesn’t look good, Guv – these revolting characters keeping these
girls locked up like slaves.’

Skelgill
is grimly shaking his head.

‘Nobody
touched me, Guv.’

She bends
forwards, demonstrating her athletic flexibility, and grabs his nearest hand as
it rests on his thigh.  They remain like this for some moments. 
Skelgill clears his throat.

‘I put
you in too much danger – I’d never have forgiven myself if any of those
–’

‘Guv.’ 
She cuts him off.  ‘It’s all worked out – everything’s fine...
except there is one thing.’

Skelgill
seems unable to look at her.

‘Aye?’

‘You
gave DS Leyton all the pies.’

He
grins archly and casts about their empty surroundings.

‘It’s one
less temptation, Jones.’

‘And
one fewer distraction, Guv.’

***