‘Let’s just say I plan to write something short and simple that we can hide at the back of the paper.’ Seeing the reaction being played out on Leanne’s face, Frankie continued quickly, ‘In the absence of any evidence to confirm or disprove that he was in some way responsible for the tragedy, we have to remain unbiased. Whatever Declan’s past misdemeanours, it’s not for us to say if his loss deserves to be mourned or not.’

‘Not yet.’

‘I promise you, I’m writing what I think is a fair account at this moment in time,’ said Frankie. ‘But if and when wrongdoing is proven, I’ll be more than happy to help you browbeat Mal into publishing your article.’

‘You don’t want to write something yourself?’

‘No, this one’s yours,’ Frankie promised. Her features softened. ‘But in the meantime, we need to concentrate on celebrating the lives of the good people of this town.’

Leanne cast an eye around the café, as if one glance could distinguish the good from the bad, the selfless from the selfish. There were only a few customers left, and she recognised every face as a fellow boat owner or a regular from the town. How many would put their lives on the line for each other?

The café manager, Dianne, was cleaning tables, and caught Leanne staring at her. She came over.

‘Can I get you ladies a fresh brew?’

Frankie was already gathering up her files. ‘Thanks, but I’ve got places to be, people to see.’

‘I’m OK for now, Di,’ said Leanne.

Dianne pursed her lips and the feathering of wrinkles around her mouth deepened. She twisted the spray bottle in her hand and, although she turned as if to leave, her feet remained planted. ‘There was someone looking for you the other day,’ she said, her casual tone a contrast to her awkward pose. ‘Did he track you down?’

‘No,’ Leanne replied. She didn’t need to ask for details. She knew who was stalking her.

‘He wanted to go through our door,’ Dianne said, tipping her head towards what was the only entry point to the marina other than the rusted security gate. The door was strictly for use by boat owners and authorised personnel. ‘I told him he’d have to phone you to let him in.’

‘I’ve blocked his number,’ Leanne said. ‘And if he does come back, please tell him we have nothing to say to each other.’

‘I understand, love, you’ve been through enough. And I’ll remind everyone to keep the security tight. Leave it with me.’

‘Thanks, Di.’

When Dianne had gone back to work, Frankie stopped packing up. ‘Was that Joe you were talking about by any chance?’

‘He’s tried before.’

‘I interviewed him about Lois,’ Frankie admitted. ‘He asked after you. Do you not think—’