"Right, let's get started," I tell them without looking at anyone in particular, and definitely not at Kentley. I go to open my mouth but am stopped when the desk girl from downstairs pops her head around the door.

"Sorry, Sir," she says. She's a quiet, unassuming, timid thing. I give her a big smile and tell her it's not a problem. "DS Kentley, a Mr Jacks left this for you, just now."

John and the other guys react immediately.

"Is he still here?"

"Don't let the ...