Page 47 of Twisted Lies
Kim’s interest was piqued. Given what she’d learned about the boy’s tight control on his emotions, any sudden outburst had to be considered. Was this linked somehow to the therapy sessions the boys attended?
‘May we speak with the boy concerned?’
‘I don’t see why not, seeing as you’re not questioning him about a criminal offence,’ he said, standing. ‘Obviously, I’ll remain…’
‘Of course,’ Kim agreed.
‘Okay, if you’d like to follow me.’
‘I get the impression Mrs Lennox preferred us to stay hidden for fear of disrupting—’
‘I’m sure it’ll be fine,’ he said, opening the door. ‘I’m confident that any kids that see you know you’re the good guys.’
They both followed him out the door.
‘Actually, probably better if just one of you comes along.’
‘I’ll be in the car,’ Bryant said.
Kim fell into step beside the teacher.
‘Am I allowed to ask if everything is okay, with the boys, I mean?’ he asked.
‘I’m sorry. I can’t discuss it with you,’ she said shortly.
‘Okay, nice weather we’re having this time of year.’
Kim smiled at his effort of making small talk. It was not something she did well.
‘Just here,’ he said, opening the door on his left.
Kim stepped into the classroom, and every eye was upon her, including those of a lightly bearded man sitting behind the desk.
He stood but didn’t move towards them.
‘That’s Jacob Powell, my teaching assistant,’ Liam said as Jacob looked away and took out his mobile phone.
Kim couldn’t help but notice the pensive expression that rested on his face.
Liam clapped his hands, bringing the attention of the class back to himself.
‘Okay, guys, nothing to worry about. As you were. Except for you, Robbie Weston,’ he said, beckoning the boy with a finger and a smile.
The fair-haired kid with his tie messily done up came towards them.
Liam glanced at Jacob. ‘You okay for…?’
‘Yeah, I just gotta make a quick call,’ he said, holding up his phone.
Liam appeared irritated but nodded.
Jacob left the classroom, mumbling about just needing a minute.
‘Right, guys, I’m gonna be just here, so get on with your lesson,’ Liam said, moving Kim and Robbie into the hallway.
He remained standing in the doorway so the kids were not alone and neither was Robbie.
‘Hey, Robbie, I’m DI Stone and you’ve done nothing wrong. Can I talk to you about Tommy Phipps?’
