Hope to Die

Outside, the wind is getting up, but the sky is clear. High white clouds gusting across the bleached blue. I fish out my keys and walk down towards the car. It’s only then that I realize there’s someone here. Someone else as well as me.

On the far side, beyond the banks of flowers from an earlier service, a tall figure in a long dark coat, keeping his distance.

But he’s not a stranger.

He’s family.

Richard Swann.

* * *

Broadcast Industry News ONLINE

15 November 2018

Netflix commissions second series of Infamous: The Chameleon Girl

New episodes will explore the shocking revelations that led to Camilla Rowan’s re-arrest

Netflix have announced that there will be a second series of the global hit Infamous: The Chameleon Girl. Journalist John Penrose, who wrote and presented the original show, has been recommissioned to front and produce the six-part follow-up. The new episodes will re-examine the original ‘Milly Liar’ investigation in the light of recent revelations, and provide ‘fascinating insights into how Thames Valley Police finally solved the 20-year-old case’. It is understood the series will also explore the circumstances that led to the tragic death of Rowan’s son last month, including the discovery of his true identity, as well as a dramatic reconstruction of what really happened to him after he was last seen leaving hospital with Rowan, when he was only a few hours old.

Mac McQueen, Netflix’s Head of Factual, said, ‘There is overwhelming interest in this case from across the world, and we are delighted John has agreed to return to it. His 2016 investigation played a crucial role in finally getting to the bottom of what really happened to Camilla Rowan’s baby, and I can promise viewers an extraordinary and compelling show.’

Thames Valley Police told Broadcast Industry News they do not comment on media activity of this kind, and would not confirm whether serving officers would be taking part in filming.

* * *

Adam Fawley

18 November

14.20

‘My round?’ says Gis.

‘No, it’s my turn. I’ll just wait till the queue dies down a bit.’

Sunday lunch at the Vicky Arms. We’re at a table by the window; there’s a fire in the hearth and a smell of woodsmoke, and two pints, nearly finished, in front of us. Outside, it’s bright but cold, and down by the river, Janet and Alex are braving the wind with the children to feed the ducks. Janet took a lot of persuading, and I don’t blame her – she wasn’t really dressed for it – but Alex has been on my case to talk to Gis about the christening and gave me a look that said OK now’s your chance as they got up to leave.

I’m fiddling with my glass, the way blokes do when they’re about to Have A Conversation. Though Gis, being another bloke, doesn’t seem to have noticed.

‘Won’t be as cold as this where you’re going, eh, boss? Where was it again?’

‘Caribbean. Leaving December 20th.’

Two weeks in the Grenadines. After the year we’ve had, I want Alex to have a proper holiday. Something special for our first Christmas as a family.

‘Look, Gis, there’s something I’ve been meaning to mention.’

He smiles. ‘Don’t worry, boss, I already know.’

‘You already know?’

The smile looks a little sad now. ‘A little bird told me. You’re going for Chief Inspector, right?’

Well, I definitely didn’t see that coming.

‘Look,’ he says quickly, ‘it’s OK, really. I’d do the same if I was you. We’ll just be sorry to lose you. All of us.’

I swallow. ‘Well, it might not mean a transfer – not necessarily –’

He picks up his glass. ‘It usually does, though, doesn’t it. Deputy Area Commander, something like that.’

Now there’s a thought. ‘Look, it’s months off. If it happens at all. And I might not get it.’

He grins and finishes his beer. ‘With a spanking new personal commendation from the Chief Constable on your file? I’d put money on it.’

There’s an awkward pause. ‘Does everyone know – I mean the whole team?’

He shakes his head. ‘Just me, I reckon. If Quinn had got wind of it he’d be beating a path to the Super’s door.’

I laugh and turn to look down towards the water. Alex is rocking Lily against her, the wind catching her hair, and Billy’s down by the water with Janet, flinging bread at the flotilla of ducks, scattering and plashing as the pieces hit the surface.

I nod towards them. ‘Reckon you’re raising a cricketer there, Gis, not a footie player.’

He grins. ‘Nah, Chelsea all the way, my Billy.’

I reach for the glasses. ‘Do you want to join them for a bit while I get the drinks in? Give Billy a hand with his bowling technique?’

He starts a little. ‘Well –’

I get to my feet. ‘It’ll be a chance to get to know your new god-daughter.’

He gapes at me, and then, as realization dawns, his face spreads into a huge grin.