CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE
‘Finally,’ Manthorp wound up her instructions, ‘remember we must search any space where a child might fit. If it’s vaguely possible they might hide there—or be put there—we need to eliminate it. Toilet, washing machine, cupboards, under stairs, oven, fridge… Got it?’
She took a deep breath. ‘Right, let’s go.’ She lifted her hand to signal the start of their search and did a double-take. ‘Hello. What’re you doing here, missy?’
Franklin followed her gaze to his daughter lurking behind Sam. His head steamed.
Oh no! You’re not coming. Manthorp’s just painted the picture. We’re looking for the kids – dead or alive.
‘Helping.’ Kat held up gloved hands. ‘I’m going to join up when I finish school…be a detective like my dad.’
Manthorp pulled an apologetic face that turned i
