After Phryne announced her intentions to break into the air base that very night, Jack made several attempts to persuade her otherwise, or to at least agree to him doing so on her behalf.

"After what happened the last time you broke into the air base?" Phryne asked, adjusting her hold on baby Adria, who was nursing with vigour, as though she were starving. Phryne winced slightly, her body tensing a little as she attempted to slow her baby down; she knew from experience that such keen nursing often led to immediate (sometimes projectile) vomiting.

"Are you alright?" Jack asked, suppressing his rebuttal, upon noticing his wife's evident discomfort.

"I'm fine" Phryne lied, looking up as Adria finally began to slow down, upon finally realising that her mother wasn't going anywhere.

Jack stared at Phryne for a moment, before nodding slowly in response, and nodding, despite not completely believing her.

"Perhaps we could talk about what you found today, from the beginning?" Jack suggested. Phryne exhaled in relief and nodded, before informing Jack of her investigation that afternoon, following the telephone call from Lyle Compton.

Phryne and Jack spent the next forty five minutes discussing their respective findings whilst tending to their infant daughters. The girls both displayed both politeness and interest by remaining quiet and complacent, as they nursed whilst their parents talked.

After giving Jack a full account of her afternoon following the telephone call, and presenting him with her findings from the crime scene (which earned only a small sigh and a single reprimand for "tampering with a crime scene"), she recounted her visit to the air base, and the disappearance of Audrey Evans. She also produced Audrey's diary, which she and Jack reviewed together whilst she winded Adria. Miss Evans was clearly a very organised young woman who recorded the majority of aspects of her life: there were entries for her working hours, social engagements, and visits to family, whose addresses were written neatly at the back, with copies of ticket stubs from trams and the theatre and various cinemas across the city. The only exception to the secretary's frequent social and work-related engagements was mention of a doctor's appointment from three weeks ago, which Phryne made a mental note of. Though no further appointments or notes concerning such appointments were included.

The only entries of interest were the twice (sometimes thrice) weekly love hearts, followed by a time and location. Although Miss Evans had, rather unhelpfully, elected not disclose the name (or even the initials) of her suitor, the combination of both the heart and the locations made it quite clear that the encounters were romantic. The fact that they met in restaurants, theatres and beaches (as opposed to some of the city's various inexpensive hotels and inns) indicated that the meetings were not of a casual nature. Though, they were suspicious; why would a young woman who detailed all other aspects of her life so fully, omit to mention the name of the man (or woman) she was meeting in her personal diary? All the signs pointed towards an illicit romance. Which made the news of her sudden disappearance even more worrying.

"It seems as though Miss Evans was romantically involved with someone" Jack surmised, as he closed the diary.

"It certainly does" Phryne responded slowly, as she began to nurse Evelyn, who had been waiting most patiently. "Though identifying her suitor will be rather difficult, given the lack of available information" she added, as her daughter snuggled in and ate keenly. Jack's eyes drifted from the diary to his daughter and he nodded, before returning his attentions to the small book in his hands.

"Is it possible that Miss Evans was in a relationship with Lyle Compton?" Jack asked tentatively. Phryne looked up from Evelyn and met Jack's gaze. She had considered that.

"I suppose it's possible" Phryne responded slowly. "If she were seeing someone at the airbase, it would certainly explain her omitting their name from her diary" she considered. "I suppose it could also explain why she was moved from Compton's office to the Major's" she reflected. "Perhaps it wasn't due to her credentials after all" she added. "And none of this explains what Lyle said when he telephoned to ask for my help" she stated. "The disappearance of Audrey Evans can't just be a coincidence. It must be linked to whatever it that Lyle's got himself is involved in" she surmised. "Especially as he called me from a phone box in the street where she lives" she stated.

"I agree" Jack said gently, as Phryne leaned back in her chair and focused her attentions upon Evelyn, who was becoming sleepy as she nursed.

Jack then informed Phryne of his own findings, which were considerably more modest than her own. "Though I have only been on the case for an hour" he reminded her lightly. He explained how he had come home straight after the court adjourned for the day, with the trial due to continue first thing tomorrow morning. Upon returning home he was informed of Phryne's departure, and telephoned the station and spoke to Hugh, who passed on Phryne's message and informed his boss of his own actions since. He had followed Phryne's instructions to the letter, sending four officers to Elizabeth Street; two to secure and investigate the scene, and the other two to canvas for witnesses.

"Apparently, several people who my men interviewed recalled hearing a motorbike speeding off just minutes after you received the telephone call from Captain Compton" Jack informed Phryne, who was listening intently. "One of my men spoke to a young butcher's apprentice, who recalled seeing a man matching Captain Compton's description wearing a flier's jacket, driving a 1929 model black sports Warratah motorbike down Elizabeth Street, before parking it in Franklin Street" he added. Phryne's eyes widened.

"That's Lyle's" Phryne responded somewhat breathlessly. "Well, one of them" she added, before glancing down at Evelyn, who was beginning to become fussy. Phryne hushed her and lifted her up a little, prompting the little girl to settle and continue to nurse. "There" she said softly, "shh, that's it" she added.

Jack watched Phryne hold Evelyn close, gazing down at her with such warmth and tenderness, that he found himself smiling in response. However, after a few moments, her smile faltered, her eyes filled with sadness, and her face adopted a worried, sombre expression. Her features were awash with emotions, guilt and anxiety being the dominant ones. And he understood them immediately.

"You don't have to come to the air base tonight" Jack said softly. Phryne looked up immediately and met his gaze, her worried expression replaced with mild confusion. "I know you find it difficult being away from the girls. Which is completely understandable" he assured her kindly. Phryne looked nervous and unsettled, and couldn't quite meet his eyes; which was always her reaction to someone seeing too deep into her soul. "It's been a long day, and you're tired" he continued. "I can go alone tonight, and you can stay here, with the girls-"

"Jack" Phryne interceded, speaking gently so she did not disturb Evelyn, who was still rather unsettled, and kept falling asleep whilst nursing. "I have to go tonight. I want to" she stated with conviction. "I'm more familiar with the base and I know where the Major's office is" she informed him. "If we leave after the girls' midnight feed they should sleep through. They won't even realise that I'm gone" she stated, in a manner which Jack sensed was for her own benefit as much as for his own. He nodded immediately in agreement. "They don't usually wake up between feeds during the night" she added, her voice and expression becoming somewhat tense and anxious once more. Jack placed his hand gently upon her thigh.

"I know" Jack assured her kindly. "You don't have to do this if you aren't ready" he added softly. Phryne swallowed hard and met his gaze.

"I am ready, Jack" she responded quietly. I have to be. "We'll only be gone for an hour or so" she stated. "The girls won't even realise I'm gone" she added. "We're gone" she quickly corrected. Jack nodded gently in response.

"Alright" Jack conceded. "But there's quite a difference between investigating and breaking and entering" he continued tentatively. Phryne looked up and met his gaze. She could see where this was going.

"Technically, yes" Phryne agreed. "But they're both incredibly fun" she smiled. Jack's eyes lit up and he smirked in response, before nodding almost imperceptibly in agreement.

"Well, entertainment purposes aside" Jack said with a small sigh. "Breaking into the base is more… physically demanding than investigating, and-" he continued, in his usual quickly-spoken manner which indicated that he was feeling both uncomfortable and wary with where the conversation was heading. "You gave birth less than three weeks ago" he reminded her. Phryne stroked Evelyn's hair and inhaled deeply.

"I haven't forgotten" Phryne said patiently. Jack hesitated for a moment before continuing.

"No, I… of course you haven't" Jack replied gently, proceeding with caution. "I just mean that you…" he continued, before breaking off abruptly, finding himself uncertain of how to continue. "You don't have to do this if you aren't ready" he said kindly. "Physically or… or otherwise."

"I am ready, Jack. I'm fine" Phryne stated with conviction, her tone somewhat sharper than she had intended.

Sensing her mother's declining mood and patience, Evelyn whimpered slightly, turning her head away from her breast and screwed up her face, in an expression which indicated she was about to cry. Loudly. Phryne focused her complete attentions upon her daughter, hushing her and assuring her that everything was alright, as she adjusted her hold upon her and tried to encourage her to continue to nurse. After almost a full minute of coaxing, Evelyn deigned to continue to nurse, albeit tentatively. Phryne watched her for a while longer before returning her attentions to Jack, who had been sitting in a reflective and somewhat guilty silence. Jack cleared his throat quietly.

"Phryne-"

"You're right, Jack, I don't like leaving the girls" Phryne interrupted, her words quickly spoken and imbued with anxiety. "When there's more than a single room between us I feel my heart beating so quickly I think I might faint" she explained. "And leaving the house without them is so difficult and so overwhelming it actually hurts, and I've never found it so difficult to be away from someone, even for a short time, and it terrifies me" she confided, finding herself beginning to ramble as Jack watched her with patience and understanding. "Which is why I have to" she added quietly. "Because if I don't force myself to do it now, I'm not sure I'll be able to" she confessed. "And I have to, Jack, not just for me, but for them too" she stated with conviction. "And especially tonight" she continued, her eyes holding Jack's gaze as she spoke. "Lyle Compton saved my life. Twice" she said simply. "He called me this afternoon to ask for my help, and I'm going to do everything I can to help him" she added. "Because he needs to be saved, Jack. Much more than I do" she stated finally.

Jack considered Phryne's words for a few moments and nodded slowly in response. He understood her position completely, though he imagined he couldn't even begin to appreciate just how difficult she found it to leave the girls. He found the task a notably colossal one most mornings, and he couldn't even begin to imagine how it must feel for Phryne. Though the pain in her eyes and the guilt in her expression and voice gave him an idea. Though he suspected it was just the tip of the ice burg.

"Alright" Jack said gently, stroking Phryne's thigh gently as he spoke. "I understand" he assured her, watching as she lifted Evelyn to her chest and began to stroke her back. Phryne kissed Evelyn's cheek and cradled her head tenderly as she mewled. "Will you at least promise to wear shoes this time?" he asked lightly. Phryne looked up at him suddenly and smiled, relieved that Jack was treating the memory of her wearing nothing but Lyle Compton's flying jacket with jest instead of disdain. "I'm surprised you didn't hurt yourself last time" he teased, a small smirk tugging at his lips.

"You know me, Jack" Phryne responded, her voice quiet but less anxious than before. "I'm the very embodiment of resilience" she stated with feigned arrogance. Jack smiled softly at her, watching the way she tended to their daughter with such warmth and loving care.

"Yes, you are" Jack stated confidently. Phryne's expression softened and she smiled. "I'm going to telephone the station and give them Audrey Evans' address in Elizabeth Street, and request that they pay her a visit and see if she can help us with Captain Compton's disappearance" he continued. "There's nothing more you can do for Lyle at the moment" he added quickly, recognising the familiarly eager expression on Phryne's face. "I'll have my men bring the reports on the crime scene over as soon as it's prepared – they'll need to come over to collect the evidence you unlawfully removed-"

"Collected" Phryne corrected patiently, earning a raised eyebrow from Jack.

"Collected" he repeated, albeit begrudgingly. "I'll also have them look into the Major and the Lieutenant" he added, having listened to Phryne expound on her suspicions concerning both men.

"Thank you, Jack" Phryne replied gently. Jack nodded.

"It's been a long day, and you need to rest" Jack advised, his voice firm yet respectful. In truth, he was concerned about her; she was clearly exhausted, he suspected she hadn't eaten, and the time she usually spent sleeping in the afternoon to aid her recovery had instead been spent running around the city and interrogating high-ranking members of the Air Force. "Especially if we're going to be infiltrating a high security air base later tonight."

"I'd hardly call it high security" Phryne countered. "Considering how easy it was for you and Hugh to break into it last time" she added lightly. Jack met her gaze with concern and her light expression softened, becoming more serious. "Alright" she conceded quietly. Although she wanted to spend the rest of the day with her daughters, whom she had missed terribly, she also found herself feeling responsible for Lyle Compton. But Jack was right, there was nothing more she could do at this time; the Police were going to Audrey's residence to question her, and they were continuing to canvas Elizabeth Street and the surrounding area in the hopes of establishing the facts concerning what had happened to Lyle. The best thing she could do right now was prepare herself for tonight. "But I'm not spending the afternoon shut away in my bedroom like an invalid" she informed him.

"I never suggested that you should" Jack said gently. "Nor would I expect you to" he stated with conviction, his eyes holding Phryne's gaze. Her expression softened and she relaxed visibly, before nodding in response. Evelyn made an adorable little sound and stretched in Phryne's arms, prompting the new mother to turn her attentions towards her daughter, who snuggled into her and began to fall asleep against her chest. The smile of affection and surprised which graced Phryne's lips caused warmth to radiate throughout Jack's very being. "Is there anything I can get for you?" he asked, noticing that the tea his mother had brought them remained largely untouched, due to both the length of their conversation and Phryne's aversion to even mentioning hot drinks when she was holding the girls.

"A glass of lemonade would be wonderful" Phryne said longingly, as she drew Evelyn's blanket over her, and held her close. "And perhaps some of your mother's shortbread?" she suggested. "It's divine" she enthused. Jack smiled and nodded, before rising to his feet. Although he knew that dinner was already being prepared, he was keen for Phryne to eat, as much and as often as she felt necessary. He might police her actions at crime scenes, but certainly not those involving food. "Oh, Jack" she said suddenly, prompting him to turn on the spot. "Could you telephone Cec and Bert, and ask them to make some enquiries in the area surrounding the scene too?" she asked. "I'd wager that there are certain people who would feel more comfortable speaking with my people than with yours" she said gently. "Besides, they're incredibly well connected, especially in the local public houses. Of which I saw at least three" she added. Jack nodded in agreement.

"Of course" he returned, nodding biddably. "I'll be right back" he assured her.

"Thank you" Phryne said sincerely, before leaning back against the couch, and holding Evelyn securely to her chest.

Jack was right: she was tired, and she did need to rest. She felt almost nauseous with exhaustion, and her body ached for sleep. And yet, her mind was so flooded with memories and thoughts and intentions concerning Compton and the girls, that sleep seemed both inappropriate and unobtainable, despite her body's demands for it.

And yet, when Jack returned to the room five minutes later, with a tray laden with lemonade and shortbread, he found his wife and daughter fast asleep.

Phryne remained fast asleep for over an hour with her daughter in her arms, prompting Jack to politely request Mr Butler to delay dinner until the lady of the house woke (which Mr Butler assured him would be no trouble at all). Jack then draped a blanket over his wife, who he hoped would remain asleep for as long as the girls, and shut the parlour door before sitting beside her to ensure it. However, it was not to be.

Shortly after eight o'clock, the silent and peaceful sanctum which Jack had created for his wife was cruelly breached by the shrill ringing of the telephone. Jack rose quickly to his feet and hurried out of the room, answering it on the second ring. However, it was too late to prevent Phryne from waking; she'd always been a light sleeper, even when exhausted, and the familiar sound of the phone ringing drew him sharply from her slumber.

Upon waking, Phryne immediately felt the warm, familiar weight upon her chest, which her arms were holding instinctively close. Phryne blinked herself out of her slumber and looked down, finding baby Evelyn curled up and fast asleep, making the most adorable little sounds and was dribbling so much that she created a most impressive wet patch upon her dress. Phryne smiled fondly and cradled her head, before carefully easing herself into a sitting position, whilst mindful not to wake her sleeping daughter. Evelyn wriggled against her slightly but did not stir, her tiny body remaining moulded to her own.

When Jack returned to the room a couple of minutes later, Phryne found herself feeling tired but alert, and both unable and unwilling to fall back asleep. Which was a conviction that intensified the moment she saw Jack's worried, serious expression.

"Jack?" Phryne asked, her voice startling from his thoughts. He'd only just returned to the room and had been so distracted by the phone call that he hadn't noticed that Phryne was now awake. He looked up and met her gaze with a look Phryne recognise; it still caused her heart to stop beating for a moment. "What is it?" she asked gently. Jack hesitated for a moment, before walking calmly towards her, and sitting down on the chaise beside her. Phryne watched him closely, and found herself growing impatient. She was about to ask him again when he began to respond.

"I just received a telephone call from Collins" Jack began tentatively, holding Phryne's gaze as he spoke. "He attended Audrey Evans' address with one of my constables, to check on her and question her about Lyle Compton's disappearance" he continued, as Phryne nodded encouragingly and watched him very closely. "When they arrived at her apartment, they found the door open" he informed her tentatively. Phryne drew Evelyn instinctively closer. "They went inside the house and found Audrey in her bedroom" he continued slowly. "She's dead, Phryne" he informed her gently. Phryne's eyes widened.

"Dead?" Phryne breathed. Jack nodded. "How?" she asked, utterly perplexed.

"Collins said it looks like suicide" Jack said softly. "They found her hanging from a noose tied to a ceiling fixture" he informed her. Phryne swallowed hard and closed her eyes for a moment, before letting out a calming breath. She then opened her eyes and met Jack's gaze confidently once more.

"Is Hugh sure that it's a suicide?" Phryne asked doubtfully.

"It's the immediate and most obvious explanation based on how they found her body" Jack responded.

"But not necessarily the right one" Phryne surmised.

"No" Jack agreed. "We should know more once the autopsy has been carried out. I've ordered it to be fast-tracked, so it'll be done this afternoon" he informed her. Phryne nodded in response, as the news sunk in.

"You said that the door was open?" Phryne asked. "When Hugh attended?"

"Yes" Jack confirmed. Phryne considered the facts for a moment more.

"What if Lyle went to Elizabeth Street to find Audrey Evans, and found her dead?" Phryne asked. "There was no answer from her door, so he broke in and found her dead, then went to the nearest telephone and called me" she suggested. "The fact he called me and not the Police to report her suicide suggests that he believed it was foul play, which would certainly explain the cryptic message Lyle gave me" she surmised. "He said "it's far deeper than I feared"" she reflected. "He suspected something was wrong, and when he found Audrey's body, he knew it" she stated, holding Jack's gaze. "This is murder, Jack. Not suicide" she stated with conviction.

Jack, who had also arrived at the same conclusion, nodded in agreement.

"The autopsy will confirm it" Jack said quietly. Phryne cradled Evelyn's head and stroked her soft hair, in a manner which she found incredibly soothing. Evelyn, who was now fast asleep, felt heavier and so warm against her chest, was snoring lightly and make gentle little humming sounds. Phryne kissed the top of her head instinctively.

"Perhaps we should go to the scene" Phryne said tentatively, despite every instinct and need in her body screaming at her not to; she wanted to stay right here, like this, with her babies. "Whilst it's still-"

"No" Jack said gently. "I have men at the scene as we speak, and Audrey's body will be en route to the mortuary before we even get there" he explained. "There's nothing we can do there right now" he continued. "Collins will call me with their findings once they've searched the entire apartment, and we'll go to the scene in the morning" he stated. Phryne, who looked notably relieved, nodded in agreement.

"Alright" Phryne said gently. She was about to continue to speak, when Evelyn wriggled against her and whimpered. "Shh, it's alright" she said, turning towards her daughter and speaking to her soothingly. "I'm here" she assured her, her voice warm and comforting, as she cradled her daughter's head and continued to hush her. When Evelyn was settled a minute or so later, Phryne looked up at Jack once more. His eyes were fixed upon their daughter, and his expression was one of warmth and adoration. He looked up and met her gaze. "We're still going to the air base tonight" she added, finding herself becoming concerned that Jack may no longer wish her to attend due to the discovery of Audrey's body. He hadn't been overly keen in the first place.

"Yes" Jack responded without hesitation. "We'll leave as soon as you're ready" he assured her.

"Thank you" Phryne said gratefully, as she leaned back against the couch and held Evelyn close. She could feel her heart beating strongly against her chest. Jack's eyes drifted across Phryne and Evelyn, his heart swelling at the sight. He nodded gently in response and returned his attentions to Phryne.

"Are you hungry?" Jack asked. Phryne turned her head to the side to face him directly.

"Would that involve me moving?" she asked lightly. Jack could see the tiredness in her eyes, and the protective way she was holding Evelyn close, both of which made it perfectly clear that she wished to remain exactly where she was. Jack smiled softly.

"Not necessarily" Jack said softly, his voice low and deep. "Would madam care for room service?" he asked, his voice warm, as a smirk played upon his lips. Phryne smiled tiredly.

"Madam certainly would" Phryne responded. Jack nodded, before pouring her a glass of lemonade and handing it to her. Phryne thanked him.

"I'll be right back" he added, as Phryne took tentative sips at the refreshing, cool liquid. She certainly hoped so: she was starving.

Phryne's nutritional needs were met ten minutes later, in the form of an utterly divine chicken, leek and potato pie served with creamed potatoes and green vegetables (which Mac insisted upon to raise her iron levels, which were apparently still rather low). Phryne drank a large glass of lemonade, refreshed herself in the bathroom, and returned shortly after half-past eight to spend some quality time with her daughters, who were fast asleep.

Phryne smiled tenderly upon her sleeping daughters, who were almost impossibly adorable, as they lay swaddled in their respective blankets, fast asleep. The new mother pushed an armchair towards the Moses basket (before Jack had time to stop her) and curled up in it, turning her body towards her daughters, who she watched as they slept.

Jack, who had observed the warmth and serenity of Phryne's gaze, eased himself onto the couch beside her and sat in respectful silence, as he watched her reverently. He was drawn sharply from his own thoughts by the sound of her voice several minutes later.

"I didn't realise how hard it would be" Phryne said suddenly, her eyes not leaving the Moses basket. "Leaving them" she added quickly, not wishing him to misunderstand. Jack met her gaze as she turned towards him, and nodded slowly in understanding. "Sometimes it feels impossible."

"I know" Jack assured her, his voice gentle and soft, as they held each other's gaze in a look of mutual understanding. "You don't have to, Phryne. If you don't want to. If you can't" he explained kindly. "I can go by myself. You can stay with the girls" he added.

"No" Phryne said despite herself, and in defiance of every instinct and desire within her mind and body. "No, I… have to go. I have to" she added softly, her voice trailing off as she stared at her daughters. "Otherwise I don't think I ever will" she explained simply. Jack nodded slowly in understanding. "And that wouldn't be good for any of us" she added, smiling softly at her sleeping babies.

"You're still recovering-" Jack began.

"So everyone keeps telling me" Phryne said quietly, the words escaping her lips before she could stop them. She regretted them instantly.

"That's because it's true" Jack replied patiently, his voice gentle and filled with understanding, as he held her gaze with reassuring confidence.

"I'm fine" Phryne stated with conviction. "I may not be able to vault over the tall fences or scale the buildings just yet, but I am perfectly capable of conducting a little late night break in" she assured him. "Jack, I'm not an invalid" she added, somewhat despondently.

"I know" Jack replied quickly. "I've never once said that you are" he added gently. "But you need to give yourself time. As much time as you need" he explained. "Phryne, you don't have anything to prove. Certainly not to me" he assured her.

"Yes I do" Phryne said softly, a small smile playing upon her lips as she held his gaze. "I thought it would get easier" she added quietly. "Leaving them" she explained, turning her head towards the babies once more, and watching them as they slept. Jack nodded in understanding.

"It will" he assured her.

Phryne smiled softly and nodded. She wanted to believe him. Desperately. But the strong, almost magnetic draw she felt to her daughters, an all-consuming feeling of love and protection so strong that it frightened her, seemed to contradict that. It was the most intense, overwhelming feeling she had ever experienced – almost like a natural high. Or synthetic one. But greater. She didn't think she'd even get used to that feeling. Or to leaving them. Though she was growing accustomed to the former – so perhaps there was hope for the latter, too.

"Why don't you rest for a while?" Jack suggested gently. Phryne shook her head and continued to watch her daughters sleep.

"The girls will be hungry soon" she responded simply. Jack glanced up at the clock and nodded in agreement. He wished there was something he could do to help with feeding the girls, especially during the night, and at times like this, where Phryne was clearly exhausted. "Besides, we need to discuss a plan of action for-"

Before Phryne could utter the words 'breaking into the air base', Adria wriggled within the confines of her blanket and let out a single cry, prompting her mother to turn her attentions back towards her immediately.

Adria was squirming in her swaddling, her face was screwed up, her eyes shut tightly, and her bottom lip was protruding in an expression of such sadness that Phryne felt her heart ache.

Recognising this as Adria's 'cuddle me' cry (as opposed to her more frequent 'feed me now before I scream this house to the ground' hungry wail), Phryne reached into the Moses basket and lifted her daughter out immediately.

"It's alright, darling. It's alright" she soothed, as she cradled her daughter in her arms and loosened her swaddling. Adria continued to stretch and wriggle, pushing her little arms completely out of the restricting blanket, and snuggling into her mother's chest. "I'm here" she soothed, as Adria's cries quickly began to lessen, and her sleepy baby closed her eyes and settled against her. Phryne smiled in a combination of surprise and affection as she held her daughter close. Jack smiled upon the picture they created with warmth and pride.

"It appears that someone doesn't want to be left out of the plans for tonight's late-night break in" Jack said lightly. Phryne continued to soothe Adria for a few moments longer, her eyes not leaving her daughter as she spoke.

"Which is perfectly understandable" Phryne said softly, keeping her voice low and gentle so as not to disturb her baby, who appeared to have fallen asleep again already. "Though I'm afraid you're a little young to join us on such missions" she informed her daughter. "Perhaps when you're older."

"Perhaps not" Jack said quietly. "Not that I expect our daughters to listen to my words of caution" he sighed in defeat. "Their mother certainly doesn't" he teased. Phryne looked up and smiled cheekily, before returning her attentions to her daughter.

"Their mother most certainly does" she returned, "when they're justified" she added tartly. Jack smirked and rose his eyebrows, earning another smile from his wife. "Now, can we please discuss the arrangements for breaking into the air base tonight?" she asked casually, as though she were discussing the dress code for a ball they were attending. "It would be most inconvenient if you got caught again" she teased.

Jack's eyebrows rose so high they almost disappeared from his head entirely.

Phryne and Jack spent the next twenty minutes discussing the intricacies of their plan to infiltrate the air base (which included, to Phryne's disappointment, a conversation on "reasonable precautions"). Her rebuttal that there was hardly anything reasonable or precautionary about breaking into an air base fell on deaf ears, and the conversation continued despite her increasing boredom.

However, thankfully for Phryne, she was provided with a distraction by her youngest daughter shortly before nine o'clock, thus saving her slightly from the subject she found most tedious.

Adria, who had been fast asleep against her mother's chest, suddenly shifted in her arms and wriggled against her body. As Phryne looked down upon her, she watched as her daughter turned her little head with a strength with never ceased to amaze her, towards her chest. She then opened her tiny mouth and pressed it suggestively against her breast, whilst pushing her little body firmly against her mother's, and wriggling to get closer still. Phryne smiled down at her daughter and stifled a small laugh, as she quickly adjusted her clothing (which she was becoming quite an expert at now), and helped her daughter to nurse.

"That's it" Phryne commended. "Clever girl" she smiled, as she sat cross-legged on the armchair, and gazed down at her daughter.

Jack leaned back against the couch, feeling his heart swell, as warmth pooled deep in his belly and spread throughout his entire body. He found himself both touched by the scene before him, and surprised that their daughters had developed such diversion tactics at an impressively early age.

He'd almost be worried about how much the girls were like their mother, if the fact itself didn't make him so proud.

For the next hour, Phryne fed and tended to the girls as she and Jack discussed the Curious Case of the Disappearing Captain, and their plans for the night. By ten o'clock, both girls were swaddled and fast asleep in their Moses basket once more. Despite the thrill of excitement and the rush of adrenaline which Phryne felt at the prospect of her midnight foray, she found herself feeling incredibly tired, to such an intensity that her whole body ached.

However, she did not want to fall asleep again, she wanted to remain awake and spend time with her daughters. Who, although asleep, were nevertheless an endless source of interest and amusement. She could watch them sleep for hours; in fact, she had done so, and intended to do so now, despite her body's almost overwhelming demands. Besides, she was so anxious about Lyle Compton's wellbeing – especially in light of the discovery of Audrey Evans' body – that sleep seemed impossible and completely unobtainable.

And yet, it was not, as she came to realised mere moments later, when she curled up in the armchair beside the Moses basket, and fell asleep to the sounds of her daughters' gentle breathing.

It therefore felt as though she were emerging from a dream-like state two and a half hours later, when Adria cried loudly to announce her hunger. Phryne opened her eyes immediately and pushed herself up instinctively, finding herself feeling confused and rather disorientated, her body acting without even the slightest involvement of her mind. Indeed, she found herself nursing Adria before she even registered picking her up, and only the soreness she experienced drew her back into the present. As Phryne looked up, she found that Jack was not in the room, the door was closed, and the night sky was almost black. She looked down towards her watch and was surprised to find that it was quarter-past twelve, meaning she had been asleep for over two hours. Which would certainly explain why she felt so refreshed. Though she wasn't quite with it, at least, not yet.

And then Jack entered the room, five minutes later, with a tray laden with a large pot of her favourite Turkish coffee which she maintained could "restore Tutankhamun to his former corporeal state". Phryne relaxed and smiled up at him, finding herself feeling warmed by the adorable look of surprise on his face.

"You're awake" Jack assessed, as he carefully laid the silver salver down upon the table. Phryne watched him closely.

"An excellent observation, Inspector" Phryne teased. Jack turned towards her and rose his eyebrows, earning a small smile. "Thank you" she added. Jack nodded in response.

"I thought the girls would be waking you soon" Jack explained modestly. Phryne's expression softened and she nodded.

"Like clockwork" Phryne smiled. Jack nodded in agreement and sat down on the chaise. "Did you manage to get some sleep?" she asked, noticing the crumpled cushion on the other side of the chaise. Jack nodded in agreement. "Excellent" she announced brightly, before turning her attentions back towards her daughter.

By ten past one, both girls had been fed and changed, and were dressed in nightclothes. Phryne laid them both down side by side in their Moses basket, just as Sheila entered the room.

"Hello, dears" she said warmly, prompting Phryne to turn towards her.

Phryne turned towards Sheila, who was wearing a beautiful dark red quilted dressing gown and matching nightdress, with house slippers, her hair plaited neatly to one side, and a look of warmth and alertness which seemed out of place at such an hour.

"Sheila" Phryne said, somewhat guiltily, as she made her way towards her mother-in-law. "You didn't have to stay up" she assured her.

"I didn't" Sheila replied easily, placing a comforting hand upon the new mother's upper arm. "I slept for a couple of hours whilst you did, but I wanted to be here with the girls before you left" she explained kindly. "Everything will be fine, dear. We'll be quite alright" she added warmly. Phryne relaxed visibly and nodded.

"Yes, I know" she responded without hesitation. Sheila smiled and nodded.

"Now, you will take care, won't you?" Sheila asked maternally. Phryne nodded.

"Of course" Phryne stated with conviction. "We won't be long, a couple of hours at most" she assured her. "And we'll be back before the girls become hungry again" she informed her. Sheila nodded. "We'll carry the girls to our room. We need to get changed" she explained gently. Sheila nodded.

"I can take the girls in with me if you'd like" Sheila offered generously. Phryne turned towards her with a grateful expression.

"Thank you, but I wouldn't want you to be disturbed by the girls or by us" Phryne explained kindly. "They usually sleep soundly between feeds during the night, so hopefully they won't wake you"-

"It wouldn't matter if they did" Sheila said simply, her voice imbued with affection, as she peered down into the Moses basket. "Such angels" she enthused. Phryne turned towards the girls and nodded.

"Yes" she agreed proudly. "Though I can't take any credit for that" she added lightly, meeting her mother-in-law's gaze once more. "Their diviner qualities are most certainly from their father" she stated. Sheila chuckled in response.

"If you say so, dear" Sheila teased. Phryne laughed quietly.

Jack, who had by now grown accustomed to his wife and mother making jokes at his expense, bore the ordeal well, suppressing a private smile and lifting the girls' Moses basket up by the handles.

"Once you're both finished casting doubts upon my character, I'll be in the bedroom with the girls" Jack teased, before disappearing from the room with a sardonic smile and their twin daughters. Phryne and Sheila shared a conspiratorial look, before the lady detective excused herself politely, and began to follow her husband. However, as Jack reached the third step, Phryne was recalled by the sound of her name.

"Phryne" Sheila said gently, prompting the new mother to turn towards her. "You will be careful, won't you?" she asked softly.

Phryne saw the concern belying the warmth and confidence of her mother-in-law, and her expression became serious and sincere.

"I will, Sheila. We both will" Phryne vowed solemnly. "I promise" she stated with conviction. Sheila relaxed visibly and nodded. "We'll be back before you wake up" she assured her. Sheila smiled warmly.

"It's fine, dear. Take your time" Sheila replied amiably. "We'll be perfectly alright" she assured her.

Sheila's words and tone were a balm which eased both Phryne's anxiety and her nerves, and she nodded slowly.

"I know" Phryne replied quietly, smiling softly as she spoke.

When Jack returned to the parlour a couple of minutes later, he found his wife and mother deep in conversation, their words and expressions warm and amiable. He noticed a change in Phryne's demeanour immediately, and was relieved to find her much more relaxed. Upon hearing him enter the room, she turned towards him, and he saw a familiar glint in her eyes. She met his gaze and smiled, her face lighting up with excitement at the anticipation of their planned break-in. Jack smirked in understanding and walked slowly towards her.

"Are you ready?" he asked gently.

Phryne's smile faltered, and he saw worry cross her face. She hesitated for barely a moment before nodding.

"Always, Jack" Phryne replied, before turning towards Sheila. "You're quite sure-"

"Yes, dear" Sheila responded. "The girls and I will be perfectly alright" she added bracingly. She'd got used to her son keeping odd hours during his cadetship and first years as a Police Constable, when he had lived with her prior to his first marriage.

Phryne considered Sheila for a few moments before nodding slowly in response. Her newfound confidence was beginning to abandon her, and she was feeling a strong, almost irrepressible longing to be with her daughters.

The girls are fine, they're fast asleep, Phryne reminded herself. They won't be hungry for hours, they don't need me, she added, the final words choking her somewhat, and causing her stomach to clench almost painfully. Sheila is more than capable of looking after them, they're perfectly safe with her, she considered. She's certainly more experienced and capable than I am.

"We'll be back by three" Phryne advised, before turning on her heel and walking out of the parlour with a confidence she did not feel.

Phryne placed her black leather bag down upon a side table and removed her coat from the coat rack in the hallway, pulling it on just as Jack and his mother emerged from the parlour. Phryne, Jack and Sheila exchanged goodbyes, before the Robinson family matriarch headed slowly up the staircase to check on her young charges. Jack walked up quietly behind Phryne, whose anxiety was now palpably increasing. His eyes drifted over and he placed his hand supportively upon her lower back.

"I take it you're driving" Jack said casually, hoping to comfort Phryne. He knew that she found it difficult to leave the girls, despite her efforts to conceal the fact an extent from him. And, he considered, to herself. He hoped that reminding her that she was in control, that she was still Phryne Fisher – Lady Detective, and that the girls were safe and well and perfectly fine, he would be able to assist her.

Phryne looked up at Jack with a look of understanding and smiled softly.

"I take it that won't be a problem" Phryne responded, the levity which entered her tone reassuring Jack immeasurably. He smirked slightly in response.

"No" Jack sighed, as he reached for his own hat and coat. "Unfortunately I've grown accustomed to your driving" he added quietly, as Phryne led him towards the door.

"Took you long enough" Phryne teased, as she opened the door and held it open for him, gesturing for him to go first. Jack suppressed a smirk and acceded.

Despite Phryne's deceptively relaxed mood, Jack could tell that she was struggling. Even driving her beloved Hispano did little to soothe her. She drummed her slender fingers impatiently upon the wheel at each impudent set of traffic lights, seemed restless and distracted, and struggled to concentrate on the conversation topics which he introduced. However, as soon as they began to discuss the details of their imminent break in to the air base, she recovered herself slightly, and they formalised their plans. By the time they arrived at the base, she bore the look of resolution and keenness which defined her working persona. However, she was still clearly still distracted and somewhat unsettled, though Jack felt confident no one who did not know her would notice. And as she was making a herculean effort to conceal it from him, too. Albeit unsuccessfully.

After parking the Hispano a couple of minutes' walk away from the base, ensuring that it would be out of the sight of any patrolling officers, Phryne and Jack crept up to the now familiar fence.

"Does this bring back memories?" Phryne asked lightly, whispering her teasing words into the darkness. Jack smirked softly.

"It certainly does" he agreed, meeting her gaze. Her eyes were alight with excitement, and her skin glowed beneath the pale moonlight. "Though you were wearing considerably less last time" he added quietly. Phryne smiled in response.

"I could wear less this time, too, though I'd hate to distract you" Phryne teased. Jack smirked.

"It's never bothered you before" Jack replied quietly.

Phryne shrugged innocently and returned her attentions to the fence.

"As we suspected, the fence has been repaired since you and Hugh broke in" Phryne said quietly. Jack turned towards her and nodded, placing his hand on the fence.

"We didn't break in, it was open" Jack responded lightly, adopting Phryne's own logic, much to her evident pleasure.

"I fear I'm beginning to corrupt you, Jack Robinson" Phryne teased.

"That process started long ago, Miss Fisher, in a bathroom" Jack responded evenly. Phryne smiled proudly and returned her attentions to the fence. "Unfortunately we won't be able to get in using the same methods you used last time" he added quietly.

"Indeed not" Phryne replied. "And I'm afraid I'm not feeling quite up to climbing over this fence" she added, staring up at the twelve foot high mesh barrier in front of her. She then reached into her bag. "Thankfully, it won't be necessary" she added.

"Then how do you suggest we infiltrate the base?" Jack asked, looking up and down the fence in both directions.

"Through the gap in the fence" Phryne replied immediately.

"There is no gap in the fence" Jack assessed, walking slowly to the left and running his hand along the fence. Perhaps he could climb over and-

"Not yet" Phryne remarked casually, her words prompting Jack to turn towards her.

Jack watched as Phryne opened her leather handbag and removed a certain tool.

"Wire cutters" Jack said quietly, as Phryne turned calmly towards the fence and began to cut. "Phryne-"

"What did you expect us to do, Jack, dig a hole and tunnel in?" Phryne asked, as she began to cut the fence. In a manner which Jack found unsettlingly expert. "I could hardly fit a shovel in this little bag."

"We agreed that it was likely that the fence would be repaired, but that there would probably be another gap somewhere-"

"Yes, Jack, but the fence is extensive, and it will take too long to find another mouse hole" Phryne advised him. "The longer we search, the more chance of being discovered" she explained. "Besides, we're breaking into an air base, does it really matter how we do it?" she challenged, continuing to speak before he could protest. "I didn't mention this before because I knew you wouldn't like it" she added simply.

"Breaking in is one thing, but this-"

"Oh come on, Jack" Phryne said easily, as she continued to cut a straight, vertical line confidently. "This flimsy material is practically begging to be cut" she informed him. "If they really didn't want people to come in they'd build a wall" she stated, before smiling victoriously and stepping back. "Here, hold these" she added, thrusting the wire cutters into Jack's hand. Which he judged (accurately) was an attempt to further unnerve him; she could've just as easily put them back into her bag.

Phryne then placed her hand through the leather handle of her bag, and watched as Jack put the wire cutters in his coat pocket, before pulling the metal mesh back, and gesturing towards it invitingly.

"Ladies first" Jack said chivalrously. Phryne smiled and, in a way which Jack would always remember, sauntered through the gap and into the air base. Jack suppressed an eye roll and followed her in at a more cautious pace.

As soon as Phryne stepped onto the air base, her eyes drifted across the silent stillness before her; the buildings were cold stone and imposing and shrouded in darkness, and the base itself was almost unnervingly quiet. She crouched down in a cat-like pose, and stalked towards the security building, which Jack recognised. It was where he and Hugh had found the missing airwoman's clothing during their previous case.

Although Jack was keen to assist Phryne with the investigation into the disappearance of Captain Compton and the death of his young secretary, he found the illicit means by which they were advancing the investigation somewhat unsettling. Although he had grown accustomed to bending (breaking) the rules when it came to Phryne, it nevertheless caused his detective's mind to question his actions. As it was doing now. Despite the fact that he himself had done precisely this before. Albeit without actually damaging the fence. Which, as Phryne had so astutely pointed out, was 'begging' to be cut.

However, Jack's self-remonstration was quickly replaced by self-preservation, when he spotted two thin, bright yellow lights penetrating the darkness. He reached for Phryne just as she too spotted them, and pulled her around the security hut, pushing her against the back wall to conceal them both from view.

Phryne inhaled sharply and held onto Jack's arms instinctively as he pressed her against the wall. She shifted slightly on the spot, which prompted Jack to turn towards her and step back immediately, placing his hands on her waist and meeting her gaze with worried eyes. She felt him tense and looked up at him with confusion which quickly dissipated: he was worried that he'd hurt her. She offered him a reassuring smile and stroked his arm, before leaning against the wall and turning her head towards the direction of the lights. The two guards were walking past the building and to the other side of the base, and within a minute or so the yellow lights from their torches and the distant sound of gravel crunching beneath their feet could no longer be heard.

"That was close" Phryne whispered, turning her head towards Jack. Her eyes were wide and her voice breathless. Jack nodded in silent agreement.

"We need to be as quick as possible" Jack reminded her, his voice quiet but urgent. Phryne nodded. "Is Compton's office still in the main building?" he asked.

"Yes, the centre building" Phryne advised, indicating towards a building which was approximately one hundred yards away. Jack stared at it for a moment, cast a cautious glance around, and nodded.

"I take it that it's locked" Jack said quietly.

"For the moment, yes" Phryne responded without hesitation. "But not for much longer" she added, before nodding towards the building.

After casting a cautious glance across the airbase, Phryne and Jack hurried across towards the centre building, reaching it in less than fifteen seconds.

As they reached the building, Phryne removed her lock pick from its standard location, and began to work on the lock, whilst Jack kept watch. He was unsurprised (though nonetheless impressed) when Phryne made faster work of the lock than she did of the fence, pushing the door open and creeping cautiously inside. Jack followed her into the building and closed the door quietly behind them both, as they removed their respective torches from their pockets, and began to explore the room.

As soon as Phryne turned on her torch, she cast the yellow light down upon her wristwatch, and made a mental note of the time. It was twenty to two, and the girls were fed at half-past twelve, meaning they would probably be hungry in the next couple of hours. Although she experienced an initial feeling of anxiety, characterised by her stomach dropping to below floor level, she quickly felt reassured by the knowledge that her daughters would be sleepy and sated for some time yet. The only thing they needed her for was food, which they wouldn't require for at least another couple of hours; as for anything else, Sheila was more than capable (certainly more than herself) of providing it.

Phryne was drawn sharply from her thoughts by the sound of Jack's footsteps as he began a careful, policeman's inspection of the main room, which prompted her to make a beeline for Compton's office. She made quick work of the lock (which may as well have not been there, for all the good it did) and made her way inside.

Phryne stood in the doorway and shone her torch around Compton's office, which was exactly the same as it had been the last time she was in it over a year ago. The same furniture, comprising of a grand desk and three chairs, two bookcases and two wooden cabinets, arranged in the exact same order as they had been when she had last been there. The office was sparsely decorated and adorned with the traditional portraits of the King and various aircrafts, as was the custom of the offices in the air base. Everything was neat and in its place, without so much as a piece of paper or paperclip out of place – even the bin was empty. Which, ordinarily, Phryne would have found suspicious, if she had not known Compton so well; he was a stickler for tidiness and order. They'd argued about it constantly.

Phryne smiled fondly at the memory of one particular argument, before making her way calmly towards the desk, and running her gloved fingers along the desk. She felt Jack walk up behind her, and turned her head slightly towards him.

"I'll take the desk, if you take the office?" Phryne suggested. Jack nodded in agreement and stepped away, as he began a detailed review of the contents of Captain Compton's office.

Phryne shone her torch across the desk, taking in the neatly organised desk, and noting that nothing appeared to be out of place. She walked slowly around it and sat down in Lyle's seat (much to Jack's amusement – she could sense his raised eyebrows) and began to review the paperwork on the desk, which was not providing informative or interesting. Jack, however, was engrossed in reviewing the bookcases and their contents, in his usual formulaic manner.

After checking the desk and finding nothing of import, Phryne began to inspect the drawers, which was one of her favourite parts of such investigations. Surmounted only by locked drawers.

Which she found immediately.

Phryne felt a familiar thrill of excitement at the locked drawer, and produced her trust lock pick with a flourish, and got to work on the drawer. She smiled victoriously when the lock yielded, and pulled the drawer towards herself.

Phryne shone the torch down into the drawer and peered inside. Even Lyle's drawers were meticulously organised, without so much as a stray paperclip or errant boiled sweet. There was a single manila folder at the bottom of the drawer, which contained details for a covert mission Lyle was due to embark on in two weeks' time. There were detailed hand-written notes in Lyle's writing on the side, listing his observations and points to mention to the Major. Whilst the file was interesting, the scant information and coded terminology within (some of which Phryne recognised) made it difficult to fully comprehend. However, she made a mental note to discuss it with Compton once she found him. Which she would.

Phryne quickly replaced the file and continued to explore the documents contained within the drawers, which included personal letters and correspondence, schematics for the latest Tiger Moth, a leather bound journal (which outlined courses and times of various flights) and two magazines. Towards the bottom of the pile, Phryne also found a bundle of letters, which had been neatly tied together with string. Phryne lifted them out of the drawer and examined them individually. There were approximately two dozen letters, scented lightly of roses, and the handwriting on the front was distinctively female (and a left handed one at that, which narrowed the pool somewhat). Intrigued, Phryne opened the letter at the top of the pile which, judging the from the post mark, was the most recent.

As Phryne suspected, the letter was romantic in nature, albeit somewhat restrained, and signed by 'Your Loving Rosemary'. The references to various outings, dinners and theatre trips (which were not usually Lyle's style) was suggestive of a rather serious nature of the relationship. The most recent letter, which was dated just four days' prior, made fond (almost excited) references to attending a charity event which was being hosted by senior airmen, for which Rosemary had bought a 'charming though refined new dress in your favourite shade of blue'. Phryne smiled softly and replaced the letter carefully, before quickly reading a few of the other most recent missives, and pocketing the rest. Perhaps 'Rosemary' may be able to assist with her enquiries.

"Did you find anything?" asked Jack, who appeared suddenly beside her. Phryne looked up and nodded.

"It appears that Lyle has been seeing a young lady named Rosemary" Phryne said warmly. Jack considered her for a moment before nodding.

"Does that mean it is unlikely that he and Audrey-"

"No" Phryne replied confidently. Jack cleared his throat quietly and nodded. "Did you find anything?"

"Only that he likes to alphabetise his books after dividing them into genre" Jack informed her. "There is nothing in any of the drawers of the cabinets or in the bookcases of note. There's no signs of a struggle, or evidence of anything illicit" he added, hoping to reassure her. Phryne nodded in acknowledgement.

"I just need to check the rest of these drawers, then we'll head into the Major's office" Phryne advised. Jack nodded.

"Where is his office?" Jack asked.

"Two buildings over" Phryne replied, as she began to search through the second drawer down. Jack nodded and turned on the spot, before continuing his own search.

After ten minutes, Phryne and Jack were satisfied that there was nothing further to be found in the office, and no further clues as to what could have happened to Lyle Compton. Not that she had expected there to be: Lyle was notoriously private and incredibly discreet, and in truth, she had been surprised to find the letters. Rosemary clearly meant a lot to him.

Phryne smiled warmly and lowered her torch, as she followed Jack out of Lyle's inner office, and locked the door behind them both. She looked down at her watch once more, which revealed that it was currently two o'clock in the morning.

Jack led the way to the front door, and was about to open it, when the silence of the airbase was suddenly replaced by the all-too-familiar wail of an alarm.