“That’s a good idea,” Milly said. “The doctor seemed confident that Mum will be discharged today, so I’ll keep you updated and see you back home later. Maybe you shouldn’t go back the way we came. The waiting room will be crowded by now.”

Joel nodded. “I found a back entrance that comes out near the mortuary. It’s very quiet.”

“Dead people are usually quiet.” Nanna Peg looked thoughtful. “We could smuggle you out, Nicole. You could lie on a trolley, and we could cover you with a sheet. I can sob and look bereft if you think that would add authenticity.”

Joel was laughing too much to speak, and even Connie was smiling.

“Thanks, but I’ll just walk out like a live person and take my chances,” Nicole said hastily.

“You can wear my hoodie.” Zoe handed it over to her. “Slouch and keep your head down. No one will notice you.”

Nicole took the sweatshirt and put it on. She was exhausted. The stress of the night before and the lack of sleep were catching up on her.

“I’ll see you later, Connie.” She leaned down and kissed Connie and then gave Milly a hug. “Call if you need me.”

“I will.”

She left the room with Joel and headed down the stairs he’d found. There was no one else around, their footsteps echoing in the empty stairwell.

At the bottom, he paused with his hand on the door that led outside. “Did you mean what you said? About staying?”

“Yes. I’m going to sell my house and look for something here.” She’d never been more sure of anything in her life. “Thank you for yesterday, and for last night. For listening. For being a good friend.”

“You’re welcome. And I’m glad you managed to sort everything out with Milly.” His hand was still on the door, but he didn’t open it. “So does that mean you’ll be available for more hikes?”

She looked into his eyes and felt something she’d never expected to feel. “Yes, but naturally I’m going to join Nanna Peg’s group. I feel I have to be there to protect Maureen.”

“Understood.” He smiled and opened the door. “Keep your head down, Wendy, or I’ll have to sling you over my shoulder and pretend you’re a corpse.”

Chapter 26Milly

Her mother was discharged at lunchtime with instructions to rest for a few days and contact the hospital if there were any concerns.

“I’m not sure about these symptoms.” Nanna Peg was studying the piece of paper that the doctor had given them. “I have most of them. Maybe I’m the one who should be in the hospital.”

Milly unloaded the shopping she’d picked up on the way home. “I wish you’d come and stay with me at the boathouse, Mum.”

“I’m better off in my own bed, honey, but thank you.”