"I don't know what to say Sandra, other than it truly is the end of an era, I shall be very sorry to see you go" Deputy Assistant Commissioner Robert Strickland did his best not to sound heartbroken by her resignation.
"I can assure you it wasn't an easy decision, Sir" she said fighting back the tears. She had been in this position before but then she knew she never would really go through with it. If only that was the case now, this time she really had no choice. "I will work my notice and I promise you I will give it my all" she flashed a smile and got up to leave, she really could not take this. Sandra was desperate for some air.
"I don't doubt that Sandra" he replied.
"Thank you for being so understanding, Sir".
"It has been an honour having you on my team" he said saying goodbye prematurely as he knew she wouldn't want any sort of fuss and besides saying goodbye later would be just as hard for him.
"Likewise, Sir".
"Oh Detective Superintendent" he said calling her back and gesturing for her to close the door. "I was just curious as to why in your letter of resignation you said you didn't want a transfer".
"Personal reasons, Sir, I am afraid I can't really say".
Reading the serious and somewhat ghost like expression on her face he hazard a guess.
"Is it your mother" he asked solemnly.
Pondering on how to respond, she thought about telling him the truth, the real reason she was leaving UCOS. Nodding she muttered "Yes, I'm afraid she can no longer look after herself, it's a full time job and the home are short staffed so I thought it was best she came and lived with me, then I at least know how she is".
"I am so sorry, Sandra".
"It's alright it is hardly your fault".