CHAPTER FORTY-THREE
Franklin rubbed his lip. As a cop, he often intruded on people’s misery. He had learned to live with it. And years of experience had also taught him the value of timing. When to wait, listen, gently probe or push.
Now was a time to shut up and observe.
The friends had encircled Grace in a group hug, speaking too low for him to hear. Eventually, they returned to their spots, except Bianca, who stayed with her arm around Grace.
‘This sucks, doesn’t it?’ Franklin said.
Cale agreed, ‘Yeah.’
Franklin watched Tracey wring her hands. A little while later, she said, ‘Mr Franklin –’
‘Just call me Franklin, if you like.’
They cracked small smiles, except Tracey who finished her thought. ‘You know what they’re saying on f*******: –?’
She didn’t finish. Bianca gave Grace a
