Web of Lies by Sally Rigby (classic novels for teens txt) 📗

but at around five o’clock, it clouded over and the heavens opened. The worst of it was over, but as he was about to leave it had begun spitting, so he fed her and left her at the house. She’d probably sleep for most of the time he wasn’t there, which he thought would only be a couple of hours.

When he reached the pub, he parked in the street opposite and stared at the building, which was painted cream, and had a delightful thatched roof. Hopefully, the food would match the quality of the exterior. As for the company, he had to admit that he was eagerly anticipating meeting with Birdie, and not just because she was bringing the documents he required. He’d found her refreshingly amusing, although whether they would manage to work together remained to be seen.

He glanced at his watch. It was six fifty-five, so only five minutes before they were due to meet. He crossed the road and pushed open the dark wooden door, ducking his head as usual when he entered buildings like this. The room was empty apart from a couple seated at a table in the corner and two men standing beside the bar, with pints in front of them.

‘Can I help you?’ the bartender asked as he approached.

‘A pint of stout, please. I’m meeting someone here and would like somewhere quiet to talk and eat. Where do you suggest?’ Seb asked while his drink was being poured.

‘The dining room’s your best bet. Most people eat in here or outside during the week. There’s a table at the far end where you shouldn’t be disturbed. It’s through there.’ He pointed towards the back and to the left. ‘Here’s the menu. You’ll need to come back here to order.’

‘Thanks,’ Seb said, taking the menu, picking up his drink and heading off.

The dining area had a homely feel and was light and airy. The table in the corner was next to the fireplace. It was the perfect spot for him to meet with Birdie as it was unlikely their discussions would be overheard.

He strummed his fingers on the table and glanced at the time on his phone. She was ten minutes late. Surely she wasn’t standing him up. That would be ironic, considering he hadn’t intended working with anyone, let alone someone he’d never even met, as he much preferred to be alone. It meant that if anything went wrong, he only had himself to blame. But as she had the information he wanted he wasn’t left with a choice. Once she’d handed it over, he might consider phasing her out of the enquiry. He’d make that decision in due course.

‘Here you are.’ He looked up, and standing in front of him, a smile on her face, holding a half-pint in her hand was Birdie. It couldn’t be anyone else. She wasn’t wrong about the wild red hair.

He stood, towering over her, and held out his hand. ‘How did you know it was me?’

‘I asked at the bar if they’ve seen anyone strange.’ She shook his hand. A firm grip for someone of her size.

He frowned. ‘Strange?’

‘As in, not from around here. This is a locals’ pub, and they know most of the customers. The guy behind the bar told me you were tall. But bloody hell, I hadn’t realised you were that big. You’d make a great goalie. Do you play football?’

‘Rugby’s my game.’

‘League or Union.’

‘Union. I’m not fast enough for League.’

‘Fair enough,’ she said nodding. ‘Cricket’s my sport.’

They sat, and she placed a paper carrier bag on the far end of the table.

‘Is that the report?’

‘In here is everything you asked for, including the coroner’s report,’ she replied, patting the bag. ‘You owe me big time for that as I had to reacquaint myself with someone who, after a Christmas party, I’d hoped never to see again.’ She pulled a face.

He laughed. ‘Despite having only just become acquainted, I imagine you manged to deal with the situation in a satisfactory manner.’

‘That’s beside the point. So, if you’re thinking of dropping me now you have what you want, think again.’ She leant forward slightly and locked eyes with him.

Was she a mind reader in her spare time?

‘I won’t insult your intelligence by saying the thought hadn’t crossed my mind, but knowing how you’ve already gone over and above what I would expect then you have my word that you won’t be excluded from the investigation.’

‘As you’re a viscount, of course I believe you.’ She smirked.

Already? He should get a sign printed and then he could hold it up when he was asked the inevitable question.

‘I’m not a viscount. My father is. And, before you ask, I don’t inherit the title, my older brother does.’ He paused. ‘I don’t spend my days playing polo, either. Nor am I related to the Queen and we definitely don’t hang out together. I think that just about covers everything.’

‘Touched a nerve, have I?’ she asked, tilting her head to one side, her green eyes twinkling.

‘You follow a long line of officers who have something to say about my background.’

Her face fell. ‘Oh. Sorry.’

‘Don’t worry, I’ve learnt to deal with it.’ He shrugged. It annoyed him, but he’d grown used to it. It came with the territory.

‘It’s not that. I always thought I was unique, especially in the force, and now you’re telling me I behave just like the rest of them. Crap.’ She bowed her head, and glanced up at him from under her lashes, grinning.

Working with her was going to be most entertaining. Not that he envisaged them being together for long. It wouldn’t take them long to look into the case. He expected to be back in London by this time next week at the very latest.

‘From the little I know of you, I doubt that very much.’

‘Come on, let’s order some food, I’m starving. All I’ve eaten today is a bag of crisps.’

‘Here’s a menu,’ he said, handing it to her.

‘I already know what I’m