Hard-Hearted

By the time Franck had smoothed the sixth post-it against the discoloured plaster surface, the first one had begun to detach itself. He was not entirely surprised. The stationary supply cupboard was not a high priority at 36 quai des Orfèvres, and it stood to reason that it would be stocked with the cheapest items available. He had long ago learned that the pens on offer were delivered with pre-evaporated ink, just as the pencils concealed leads that had suffered multiple fractures.