If this were only cleared away," They said, "it would be grand!"

My sister was wondering about that phone call I got just before I left.

"Hello, is this John Edward Grant?" It was a woman's voice, but not one I recognise at all.

"Yes, this is he."

"You have an ex-wife, Alaina?"

"Yes, who is this?"

"Just a friend, Mr Grant. A friend with a few words of advice."

"How can I trust 'Just a friend'?"

"Mr Grant, the police are looking for you. You and your girl, Catherine."

"What?!"

"Your ex managed to get a restraining order against you, Mr Grant. The police are on the way to enforce it."

"How can I believe you?"

"Just go home, you'll find out soon enough if I'm right."

"Ok, what about the restraining order?"

"Let's just say it's best if your daughter isn't found near you, Mr Grant."

They hung up and I headed home by myself. If my 'friend' is right, I don't want Catherine there. And I think Shannon should stay well clear if she can.

My informant friend was right. Within minutes of me getting home, the police arrived.

"Mr John Edward Grant?"

"Yes?" Might as well admit that.

"Where is your daughter, Mr Grant?"

"She went to school yesterday as usual. She didn't return home after school. I rang her school friends but none of them knew where she was. I assumed that she went home with her mother. Her mother and I aren't exactly on speaking terms."

"Alaina has filed a complaint that you kidnapped the child."

"Feel free to search the place. She's not here officer."

So I was asked to accompany the officer to the police station to answer further questions. She was being fairly civilised about the whole thing; no cuffs, no pushing me into the car. However, it obviously wasn't just a casual request. So I got in the car.

I didn't even realise that the police station had a holding cell at the back.

Not only do they have a holding cell, it's going to be my home for the next day. I refused to say anything more, and they have refused to tell me any of the specifics about this restraining order.

The cops are gone, I can indulge in a small panic.

Urgh, no no no! This can't be happening. No!

Ok, I'm better now.

They offered me a phone call but I refused. There is no point in ringing Brooke, she's promised to look after Catherine and I don't want to remind anyone that I have a sister in town. There's no point in ringing a lawyer, I haven't broken any laws. I don't know who rang to warn me, so I can't thank them. And I can't think of anyone else that would be useful to call.

Home, sweet home. Not!

I may as well make myself as comfortable as I can.

What did they use to fill this mattress? Gravel?

They took my cell phone away but they did leave me a few books to read. Since I have nothing better to do, I'll study a few recipe books I have been meaning to learn.

I do hope things are going well at Brooke's place.