She didn’t add that digging into Annie’s private life for no good reason wasn’t something that sat easily with her. Of course, digging into people’s private lives was part of an investigative journalist’s job description. But an equally important part of the job was knowing when it was time to stop. And right now, it was time to stop investigating Annie Holden just because she bore a passing resemblance to Emer’s dead sister.

‘Are you okay?’ Dee asked.

‘I think so,’ Emer said. ‘It’s a bit difficult to process, that’s all.’

‘Did you ever get any counselling?’ Dee asked. ‘After Kitty died, I mean.’

‘You think I’m crazy.’ Emer smiled.

‘I think you’re still grieving,’ Dee said. ‘And maybe you need some help with that. I admire you for refusing to believe your sister was really dead. It takes a lot of courage not to accept something everyone else is telling you has to be true.’

‘But now it’s time to start accepting it.’ Emer nodded. ‘You’re right. God, it’s almost a relief, you know? I spent so long wondering what had really happened. Now I know for sure, I guess.’

‘Perhaps this was inevitable,’ Dee said. ‘Sooner or later, you were bound to see someone who reminded you of Kitty. I wonder if this was what you needed so you could finally let go.’

‘Possibly.’ Emer placed her knife and fork together on her plate. ‘This food is lovely, but I’ve lost my appetite, I’m afraid. Please let me pay for this?’

‘Not a chance.’ Dee pulled out her card and gestured to a nearby waiter to bring the bill. ‘This is my treat.’

‘That’s very kind,’ Emer said. ‘But next time we meet, I’m paying. Okay?’

‘You think there’ll be a next time?’

‘Of course. Why wouldn’t there be? You’re my cousin. I know I’ve been too busy to spend much time with you, but hopefully things will change once this contract’s over.’

‘You want to go for a walk or something before you go back?’ Dee asked.

‘I’d love to,’ Emer said, ‘but I really should be getting back.’

‘You sure you’ll be okay to work?’ Dee asked.

In fact, Emer seemed to be handling the news remarkably well. Dee hoped the realisation that her sister really was gone wouldn’t hit her later, when she was alone.

‘I’ll be fine.’ Emer smiled. ‘Really. And I’m so grateful to you for everything you’ve done.’

‘You’re making it sound like a goodbye,’ Dee said. ‘But we’re only starting to get to know each other. I’m still hoping you’ll come to Eastbourne soon. What’s your work schedule looking like over the next few weeks?’