Part 54 (1/2)

Dorte had tried to sound casual about the program she had in her pocket, but Iben quickly spots that the detective is far from a computer buff. It could be sheer desperation that made her come this evening. Probably, the consensus back at the station is that the case has been closed ever since Malenes confession came to light. Dorte wont have a leg to stand on unless she finds something in the computer. And she wont.

Iben listens to Gunnar and his children having fun in the kitchen. She feels much better now and returns to the previous subject.

But on the other hand, working at the DCIG might have the opposite effect. That is, not to blunt our perceptions, but to make us more appreciative of the lives were privileged enough to live.

Dorte keeps staring at the screen.

We have been allowed to believe that an orderly, day-to-day existence and our care and respect for each other are givens. Our work shows us that they are not. It also opens our eyes to the importance of goodness. Precisely because it can vanish so quickly.

At last Dorte looks up from the screen and states the obvious. Not a trace of anything.

Just as Iben tells herself that the worst is over, Dorte has another thought.

By the way, do you know of anyone who might have a key to Malenes apartment? Or someone who might know the pa.s.sword to her computer?

Iben must think quickly now. Its a test. She lifts the lump of orange mineral on the coffee table. Not as far as I know. Malene never told me her pa.s.sword. I didnt have a key, and Im pretty sure n.o.body else did.

The thing is that whoever wrote the confession must have been someone who had a key. Key or no key, youve got to be very cool about breaking and entering an apartment under regular police surveillance, especially if the next thing you do is settle down to a bit of computer work.

They talk for a little longer, but Dorte begins to look tired. She gets up to leave and puts her CD away.

Im sorry to have disturbed you. Hopefully it wasnt too uncomfortable for you.

No, not at all. I mean, you obviously must investigate every possible lead. We owe that to Malene and Rasmus. Please feel free to call anytime.

Iben escorts Dorte to the door and then goes to the kitchen, where Gunnar is puttering about making lots of delicious dishes for a buffet-style supper. The girls are preparing a big bowl of salad.

Gunnar asks how it went. Iben mutters noncommittally.