What is it?
It was the first time that Pete had used Barnes Christian name when addressing him. Barnes knew it must be important. He also knew it couldnt be good.
Eh, well, we dont have any backup, for later. Tonight. Foster Barnes kept studying his lab findings and Pete assumed it was his way of controlling his temper. Yeah, um Rob, the Super, is spitting chips. He apologises, but with people off sick, on leave, theyre already running a skeleton crew.
Thats okay.
He said he was really sorry. He even tried to get some guys down from Brisbane for you what did you say?
Foster looked up at Pete. I said its okay, we wont need it. Come and have a look at this.
Pete shook his shaggy head and stepped forward to look at the chart on the screen Barnes had been studying. He had no idea what it meant, and glanced at Barnes.
Were not going tonight then, to the caravan park I mean?
Barnes didnt look at him, but Pete saw the frown. Yes, yes, but look at the readings will you. Barnes was excited. Pete was confused.
Im looking boss, but I dont know what it means. We are going tonight or we arent?
Foster stood upright and finally looked at Pete. Were having two conversations here, so, to clear the first, yes, we are going tonight, backup or no backup. Now, look at the chart. See the red line? The chart comprised every colour of the rainbow in almost every hue imaginable. It stretched across two thirds of the screen, but the highest point was a thin red line. Yes, the tallest line Im talking about. This is the chemical analysis from the celery and onion from the takeout. Ostensibly, its Viviennes DNA.
Thats if it was Vivienne.
It was her alright. I dont need to tell you that DNA is unique, even more than fingerprints are.
Yes, but how do you know what her DNA is in the first place? We havent collected any hair or clothing or sample of anything from her before?
We dont have to. I mean if we did, Id bet next years wage that it matched this one.
How can you be so sure its hers?
The red line Pete, that little thin red line.
Chapter 18. New Discovery
Go to bed.
Aw, but Mum?
Its late, get into bed now young man.
But you said I could wait up for Dad?
Ill make sure he comes up and tucks you in as soon as hes through the door.
Aw, Mum.
Foster! Go to bed now. I mean it.
Yes Mum.
He was about to shut off his computer when he heard the electric garage door activate. Excited, he left the screen on and jumped into bed, pulling the covers up as the car engine died. The garage door ran again, then the car door. Heavy footsteps into the house. Some murmuring. Silence. He peeked out from one eye and saw his bedroom door slowly opening. He clenched his eyes closed. Soft padding steps toward the bed. The hoarse whisper close to his ear.
I know youre awake. Your Mother told me. Foster laughed and sat up into the bear hug waiting for him. Sorry I was late son.
Thats okay Dad. Look. Look at the computer. I got it!
Big brown eyes looked at him proudly. Did you now? Well done, congratulations. But its late. Well look at it in the morning.