Page 36 of Paper Roses

“Artie Anstons sounds like a circus performer.” Jed’s lip twitches and he turns to the builder. “Bob Sampson. Can I just say how nice it is to meet you again,” he says silkily.

The builder stares at him myopically and then blanches. “Shit. SergeantWalker,” he breathes.

Jed salutes him lazily. “The very same.”

I stare between them, and Jed shoots me a wink that is extraordinarily attractive. “Bob and I know each other.”

“I can see that. Personally or professionally?”

“Mainly the latter,” he says gravely.

“This is your house, Sergeant Walker?”

“It is indeed,” Jed drawls.

I watch open-mouthed as the builder turns and walks smartly down the road towards the bus stop. “Thanks for your custom, Mr Anstons,” he calls to me. “Hope you’re satisfied.”

“I’m more confused than satisfied,” I mutter.

Jed slings his arm over my shoulder, and we watch the builder disappear down the road. “Don’t look so sad, Artie Anstons,” he murmurs.

I snort. “So, what’s the story there?”

“I arrested him a few times,” he says conversationally.

“Youdid?” I brighten instantly. I love true-crime programmes and here is the real thing. “What was he in for?”

He bites his lip. “Not for any of the exotic things you are no doubt imagining.” He chuckles. “Drunk and disorderly on Tottenham Court Road usually. Sometimes he liked to switch the game up a bit.”

“To armed robbery?” I ask hopefully.

“No, drunk and disorderly on the Kings Road.”

I shake my head as he laughs softly. It’s as attractive as the rest of him and I savour the feel of his warm arm over my shoulders. I feel snug and protected and want it to last forever.

He stirs. “He must have a surprisingly good memory to remember me. It’s been years.”

I look at his strong, handsome face.Or you’re just very memorable, I think.

We turn as a van pulls up and parks by the house. A tall man with silver hair climbs out and retrieves a clipboard and a diary. This must be my second appointment. He walks towards us and I move away from Jed to greet him.

“Mr Campbell?” the man says, his voice deep and pleasant.

“That’s me,” I say, offering him my hand. “You must be Mr Barnes?”

“Yes, but please call me Eric.” He looks behind me and his eyes widen. “Jed,” he exclaims, his face breaking into a wide smile. “How are you?”

“How is it that everyone knows you?” I enquire lightly.

“I’m fine, Eric.” Jed takes the hand the builder offers him, smiling. They’re both the same height, both good-looking, and obviously on good terms. I wonder with a sinking feeling if they ever dated.

Jed smiles at me. “Eric did the work on my flat a while ago.”

“Oh,” I say, relief sweeping through me. “Oh, that’s good. At least he didn’t arrest you too,” I add quickly to the builder.

“Not yet, but the day is still young,” Eric murmurs.

I smile at him. “So, he’ll give you a good reference, then?”

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