He took a moment to organise the words in his mind before saying: ‘You can spread the load if it’s too much.’
‘I don’t follow, DI Sant.’
‘It’s getting tougher. We need delegation. You should have a word with the Chiefman and ask him to put me and Holdsworth in charge.’
Appleyard’s eyes finally locked on his. ‘Are you referring to Superintendent Hardaker?’
‘None other than.’
‘Is it not disrespectful to call him by a nickname?’ she said, tapping away at her phone.
‘Not really. He looks like a Red Indian. We go back a long way.’
Awkward silence followed. Finally, she put down her phone. ‘Is that all you have to say?’
‘I’m offering my support. You take the official lead, no problem. I’m not interested in the next career move. Let me take one rein and Holdsworth the other.’
Appleyard u
