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Once again, I think of my staff and wonder if the parents among them are missing their own kids’ nativity plays. I never thought about that. In fact, it never occurs to me they have a life outside of Harvey’s at all and if anything, I’m ashamed of that.
So, I’m more surprised than anyone when I dash off an ‘all staff’ email.
Morning everyone. From today I will grant two ad hoc days per employee on full pay in addition to your contracted leave entitlement to attend school plays or hospital appointments. These are two examples, but I’m aware that sometimes work can get in the way of life. Any requests must be presented to your department managers for authorisation at least a week in advance. Have a good day.
Robert Harvey
Once I press ‘send’, I lean back and feel good for once. Doing something nice is alien to me and I have only one woman to thank for that. Jessica, unknowingly, has shown me real life, and it’s opened my eyes. How can I head off today knowing I’m doing something I’m denying my own staff? It won’t matter to the running of my store. If anything, it will make my staff happier and hopefully loyal.
It’s as if a veil has lifted and I see a clearer picture. Not to the extent that my father did, but I’m hoping a little leniency will go a long way to making Harvey’s a much happier place to work.
CHAPTER29
JESSICA
Somehow, I got those kids to school on time and was glad to see that Angelina’s tummy ache appeared much better. When we got there I was grateful that her friend Alice came running up and pulled her off to play.
I didn’t hang around to chat with the other parents because why on earth would I? The fact it was freezing and there is a hint of snow in the air, had me running back to the beast as quickly as my stiletto heels would let me and as I head back to Sally’s, I vow to take charge of her predicament.
As soon as I return, I make myself a coffee and take out my phone, scrolling through the texts from the various lawyers I requested for help. Many came back to me with an apologetic ‘no’, which I expected because most of them are always busy, but one said they’d do their best and as I read her latest message, my heart sinks.
Hi Jessica. I contacted the police in Sutton and told them I would be acting for Sally Stevens and to forward me the police report. Just to inform you, she has been moved from the cells and is currently in Bronzefield prison. I will be visiting her today at 2 pm. Her husband has been sent to Wandsworth and I have a meeting scheduled in at 5 pm with him. I will brief you later.
Regards, Amanda.
Prison! I’m dizzy as I picture them in hell, and I wonder what on earth they did that was so bad they wouldn’t be granted bail.
I quickly make a call to Detective Inspector Ranauld because, as a serving police officer under his command, he needs to hear I now have criminals in the family.
“Jessica, please tell me you’ve solved the case and are ready to resume your duties.”
Biting back my irritated retort, I say calmly, “It’s in hand, but that’s not why I’m calling.”
“I’m listening.”
I take a deep breath. “Well, I must tell you that my sister Sally Stevens and her husband Anton were arrested yesterday and appear to have been remanded in custody in Bronzefield and Wandsworth.”
“What are the charges?”
“Burglary.” I cringe as I say the word, and his inhalation of breath doesn’t make me feel any better.
“Thanks for telling me. Keep me informed, but I will need to investigate the circumstances in case you are incriminated.”
“Thank you. Oh, and sir…”
“Yes, Jessica.”
“I don’t suppose you would tell me what you find? It’s just that well, I know nothing.”
“Of course. Leave it with me. Just do your job and get back here.”
I cut the call, but before I can even take a sip of my coffee, the phone rings and I note an unrecognised number.
“Jessica Taylor speaking.”
“Jess, thank God.”
“Sally!”
