Death Before Time by Andrew Puckett Read Free Book Online

hospitals?”
    She nodded. “All over the country, and we’ve had some pretty bizarre experiences, although nothing quite like that.”
    “Why d’you do it?”
    “To collect data, make contacts. Health is a special interest of mine.”
    Aware of the drinks in his hand, Fraser smiled and said, “I’m on an errand, so I’d better go.”
    She smiled back at him. “I think you might be too late.”
    He stared at her, then over to where he’d left Helen – she was still there, but so was Ranjid Singh. They were both holding drinks and talking.

 
    Chapter 6
     
    “I … see what you mean,” Fraser said slowly. “That’s – er – very observant of you.”
    “I find it pays to be observant,” she said, “In every sense of the word. Don’t you?” Her voice was husky, sexy, slightly pissed. Her blue eyes roved his face.
    He put one of the drinks down and took a sip from the other. “Now you’re being enigmatic.”
    “Well, you obviously haven’t been drinking much if you can say that so easily.”
    “Driving. How did you and George get here?”
    “In a taxi, why -? Oh, I see. You saw us arriving together and he, of course, has been drinking … but is it so obvious that I have?”
    He made a mouth and rocked his hand from side to side. She gave a tight little smile.
    “What I meant, Fraser, is that knowing things can prevent one making a fool of oneself.”
    “Important in your job, I imagine.”
    “In any job, Fraser. But just at the moment, important to you .”
    “In what way?”
    She considered him a moment, then said, “I think you’ve blundered into deep and rather murky waters. T’were better you hadn’t stepped in at all, but now that you have … ” She leaned closer, entering his space unasked, “Think about it, Fraser…” she said, and melted away.
    What the hell was all that about? He looked round at Helen and Ranjid wondering whether to join them - then Ranjid caught his eye and walked over.
    “Hello Ranjid,” he said brightly. “I thought you were in Wolverhampton.”
    “I was. I came away early.”
    “Interesting meeting?”
    “Very, thank you – “ He caught Fraser’s eye movement, turned, and they both watched as Helen went to the door that led to the passage. Ranjid turned back to him and said, “It was very good of you to bring Helen here, but I shall be taking her home. Is that understood?”
    “Does she know that?”
    “She does.” He made as if to go, then turned back, took Fraser’s arm and led him a little way from the drinks table.
    “A word to the wise, Fraser – it might be an idea if you were to leave.” His grip tightened on his arm, “By which I mean – leave the party, now, and leave the hospital … soon.” He gave a tight, sweet smile. “Believe me Fraser, you really are superfluous in every possible way.” He tapped the side of his nose, winked, then walked back to where he had been standing.
    He’s mad , Fraser thought, Raving , keening , howling …
    He felt as though people must be staring at him, but they weren’t … what the hell should he do? If he tried speaking to her, God knew what might happen. Patrick emerged from the kitchen, caught his eye and came over.
    “Can I get you anything, Fraser?”
    “I’m OK, thanks … “
    “A shandy, that’s what you need – come with me.”
    It was Patrick’s turn to grasp his arm and lead him firmly to the kitchen – where Helen was waiting …
    “What was he saying to you?” she demanded.
    “That he’d be taking you home, among other things.”
    “Like hell he is, we’re going – now. Thanks, Patrick.”
    “My pleasure and privilege, darling.” He opened the back door, kissed her cheek and shook Fraser’s hand.
    They hurried out across the gravel, he unzipped the tonneau and they got into the car. He reversed, then drove out through the gateposts.
    “Should we find another way back?” he asked.
    “There isn’t an easy one. I don’t think he’ll follow us, if that’s