Hogan gave a long sigh. “Because I need that other pair of hands,” he told her.

“And only his will do?”

“So far as I know.”

“I’m suitably crushed.”

He ignored her tone. “How soon can you let him know?”

“He might not be well enough to help.”

“If he’s anywhere short of an iron lung, I’ll take him.”

She rested her weight against Rebus’s desk. “What’s going on?”

“Just get him to call me, eh?”

“Are you at the school?”

“Best if he tries my mobile. Bye, Shiv.”

“Hang on a sec!” Siobhan was looking towards the doorway.

“What?” Hogan failed to mask his exasperation.

“He’s just here. I’ll put him on.” She stretched the receiver out towards Rebus. His clothes all seemed to be hanging awkwardly. At first, she thought he must be drunk, but then she realized what it was. He’d struggled to get dressed. His shirt was tucked into his waistband, but only just. His tie hung loose around his neck. Instead of taking the phone from her, he came forward and leaned his ear against it.

“It’s Bobby Hogan,” she explained.

“Hiya, Bobby.”

“John? Connection must be breaking up…”

Rebus looked at Siobhan. “Bit closer,” he whispered. She angled the mouthpiece so it rested against his chin, noting that his hair needed washing. It was plastered to his scalp in the front, but sticking up in the back.

“That better, Bobby?”

“Fine, yes. John, I need a favor.”

When the phone dipped a little, Rebus looked up at Siobhan. Her gaze was directed at the doorway again. He glanced around and saw Gill Templer standing there.

“My office!” she snapped. “Now!”

Rebus ran the tip of his tongue around his lips. “I think I’m going to have to call you back, Bobby. Boss wants a word.”

He straightened up, hearing Hogan’s voice becoming tinny and mechanical. Templer was beckoning for him to follow. He gave a little shrug in Siobhan’s direction and began to leave the room again.