Names

"Scott Jenson, Lee Mackenzie." Ruth whispered the names as she folded the paper into small squares before slipping it under the strap of her watch. She sighed, remembering the small trick Tom had taught her. If she was compromised a terrorist wouldn't think to remove such a dainty watch and if she ended up in hospital the chances are it would be overlooked. Turning to her computer she began to wonder if Joss Myers daughter could be trusted.

Xxxxxxx

Harry stepped into the library, ignoring the young man sat behind the reception desk. He knew the place would be half deserted as many people would be in work or school. He headed up to the Natural History section; heading past it towards the vast section on war and battles. He pulled a small book from the third shelf at his own height.

"Tolstoy." He raised an eyebrow. It somehow seemed fitting that a fictional novel should be secreted among the factual books surrounding him. He opened the book, seeing the slip of paper secreted in the cover of the book. He frowned as he read the paper in his hand. Grimly he put the book back in its place on the shelf; turning to head out of the library. Bernard had confirmed his suspicions. All he had to do now was act on it.

Xxxxxx

"Ruth." Malcolm stepped towards her as she slipped her headphones off. She smiled slightly at her friend. He seemed to have aged in the days since Colin had died.

"Hi."

"The funeral. It's next Friday. Close family and friends. I spoke with Marjorie earlier." His voice broke. "Her husband isn't being particularly helpful. I spoke with Colin's niece Gabby. She's determined to do a reading. Brave girl."

"He was so proud of Gabby and Hannah." Ruth smiled, remembering how he had spoken of his gadget mad nieces, his lovely sister and idiot brother in law. He hadn't liked Niall at all. Ruth had trusted his judge of character.

"Yes. Gabby is only thirteen but she's determined to do a Bible reading. Hannah said reading from Wonderpedia or some gadget book more appropriate."

Ruth smiled. "The girl may have a point.

"Will you be there?"

"Of course." Ruth touched his hand. "Try stopping me."

"Thank you. He thought the world of you. Told me once he thought you were the only person he had ever seen make Harry stop and think. He was amazed by that." Malcolm shook his head. He knew there was something there. Ruth blushed.

"He's my boss but he's also my friend. Like you."

"Ruth; it's more than that. Life is all too short."

"Anyway." Ruth looked up as Harry returned to the Grid. He stormed past them both as Ruth remembered the little slip of paper secured under her watch strap. She had work to do. Malcolm nodded before retreating back to his own workspace knowing they had to find peace somehow.

Xxxxxx