The Tooth Tattoo(134)

‘Is that usual?’

‘No. Their brief generally makes sure they don’t, but in this case Cat insisted, and when that woman insists, no one had better stand in her way.’

‘She’ll get a long sentence, I expect.’

‘Life. For three murders, that will be seriously long.’

‘So the Staccati is no more?’

‘Not necessarily. Ivan is looking for another cellist.’

She looked wistful. ‘Pity if they have to break up. What will that poor autistic man do?’

‘Anthony? He’ll join another ensemble. I don’t have any worries over him.’

‘He’ll miss all the mothering from Cat.’

‘I doubt if he will,’ Diamond said. ‘A lot of it was more about Cat’s need to feel wanted. Anthony is such a good musician that people will put up with his strange ways.’

‘I hope you’re right.’ She smiled. ‘Cat will keep the prison entertained. She’ll probably form an all-girl quartet.’

‘I’m sure of it. We’re doing the prison service a favour, sending them someone as chirpy as her.’ He poured more wine into her glass. ’But let’s talk about your new project. It’s a bit more modern than the shows you’ve been dressing lately, isn’t it?

‘Yes, I may even ask to see some of your old black and white movies.’

‘You know you’re always welcome.’

‘And I was thinking before you get wrapped up in another case that it might be good to fit in another city break.’

‘I’m all for that,’ Diamond said at once.

‘You are?’ She couldn’t hide her surprise.

‘I enjoyed Vienna – probably more than you did.’

She laughed. I had some fun out of it, too. A lovely city. Where shall we go next?’

‘That could be difficult.’

‘Why?’

‘I don’t know if I’ve seen it in the brochures.’

‘Which city do you have in mind?’

‘Fits in with your new project.’

‘Don’t keep me in suspense.’

‘I was thinking Casablanca.’