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At home Sheelagh was quieter than usual. Des noticed but didn't say anything about it. He didn't want to start an argument. Des had also noticed that Sheelagh had had a much more peaceful sleeping pattern since she had met Mr Murphy. Des was confused about Sheelagh's recent behaviour but hoped she was okay. They had just finished their dinner and they were washing and drying the pots in silence.
"Gina was asking me some questions today." Des started. "She wanted to know if you'd kept in touch with Patrick Murphy."
"Oh. What did you say?" Sheelagh replied, passing him another plate she'd just washed.
"I said that I thought you had but she'd have to ask you."
"Is she going to ask me?"
"I think so."
"Why was she asking?"
"I don't know."
"Well, I'll find out I'm sure."
"Probably tomorrow as soon as you enter the station."
"Probably. Oh, how do you fancy having a few people over for dinner sometime?"
"Who were you thinking of?"
"Well, Patrick and some of his family, my brothers and sisters then a few of your mates and family if you like."
"Do you want to cook for that many people?"
"I'd love to."
"Then I'll think about who I want to invite."
Sheelagh smiled at him.
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The next day Des gave Sheelagh a lift into the station.
"Thanks for the lift." Sheelagh said before getting out.
"It was hardly a problem." Des answered sarcastically.
"I was just saying. There's no need to be sarcastic." Sheelagh countered before getting out before he could reply. Des sighed then got out and followed her into the station.
Gina caught Sheelagh just as she was going into the sergeant's office.
"Sheelagh!" Gina shouted through the open door to the young sergeant. Sheelagh turned and looked at Gina. "Come in here please." Sheelagh walked into the Inspector's office rather than the sergeant's office. "Sit down please." Sheelagh was put on alert by Gina's pleasant tone. She closed the door behind her then sat down opposite the Inspector.
"Is everything okay ma'am?" Sheelagh asked, even though she had a good idea what was coming.
"Are you still in contact with Mr Murphy?" Gina got straight to the point without even saying hello.
"Yes ma'am."
"May I remind you that relationships with victims is forbidden."
"We're friends, ma'am, nothing more." Sheelagh replied calmly. She could feel her heartbeat quicken at the sound of Patrick's name. She knew it was wrong, but she couldn't help herself.
"Well, just keep it that way."
"I will ma'am."
"Okay. Off you go then. I believe you have work to do."