“So that’s just the three police forces who need to know…Shouldn’t have any trouble keeping it under wraps.”

Rebus was looking around. “If we can at least get the scene checked and photographed…take the cloth back to the lab…”

“Before the fun and games start?”

Rebus puffed out his cheeks. “Kicks off on Wednesday, right?”

“The G8 does, yes. But there’s the Poverty March tomorrow and another planned for Monday.”

“In Edinburgh, though, not Auchterarder.” Then he saw what she was getting at. Even with the evidence at the lab, the whole place could be under siege. Getting from Gayfield Square to the lab at Howdenhall meant crossing the city, always supposing the technicians had managed to force their way into work.

“Why leave it here?” Siobhan asked, studying the patch again. “Some sort of trophy?”

“If so, why here specifically?”

“Could be local. Any family connections with the area?”

“I think Colliar’s solid Edinburgh.”

She looked at him. “I meant the rape victim.”

Rebus formed his mouth into an O.

“Something to consider,” she added. Then she paused. “What’s that sound?”

Rebus patted his stomach. “Been a while since I’ve eaten. Don’t suppose Gleneagles is open for afternoon tea?”

“Depends on your credit card limit. There are places in town. One of us should stay for the SOCOs.”

“Better be you, then; don’t want accusations that I’m hogging the limelight. In fact, you probably deserve a complimentary cup of Aucherarder’s finest tea.” He turned to go, but she stopped him.

“Why me? Why now?” Her arms stretching from her sides.

“Why not?” he answered. “Just call it kismet.”

“That’s not what I mean…”

He turned toward her again.

“What I mean,” she said quietly, “is that I’m not sure I want them caught. If they are, and it’s because of me…”

“If they are, Shiv, it’ll be due to their screwup.” He stabbed a finger in the direction of the patch. “That, and maybe even a bit of teamwork.”