‘It turns out that the Beacon Estate has been in the pocket of a high-ranking police officer, who, incidentally, was stabbed to death in his own home yesterday.’

Thomas raised his brow and wondered if Neil Ormond knew who it was. ‘It looks like Ella exposed something rotten and left us all a legacy.’ The lawyer patted Thomas on the back; he was an old friend and they went back years.

Thomas nodded: it was a bitter recompense.

‘Did you pay the reward, Dad?’

‘No one came forward, and it was DI Porter who cracked the case in the end, with dogged attention to detail. But I’ve got an idea what to do with the money.’

‘I think you should keep it to yourself, Tom,’ said the lawyer.

‘I disagree. That estate pulled together, and Sharon Bradley got people to do what they would never normally do, for her daughter and for Ella.’

Jordan put his head in his hands and began to sob, deep, heavy grunts. Thomas went around the table and took his son in his arms until he was spent.

‘I understand why you wanted to do it, son.’

‘I’m sorry, Dad.’

‘No. Don’t say that. It wasn’t your fault. None of this was your fault.’

Chapter 60

One month later

A cheer went up as Kelly carried the fifteen-pound turkey to the table. They were all gathered in her house, and the fire roared.

Kelly’s Christmas gift to Josie was being put to good use as they pitted their wits against Thomas and Millie. It was a board game called Talisman, which challenged players to a titanic battle of magic and evil, set against an epic journey to the inner kingdom, where one player would take the Tower of Command and rule over all others. They’d been playing for three hours and still hadn’t got close to the ultimate prize. The table had been set up buffet style to cater for so many people.

Kate had popped in with some bubbly, and Rob and Mia showed off their new baby. He was passed around like a parcel, and enjoyed the attention from June and Amber. June had supplied six boxes of her beautiful chocolates for the spread. Kelly couldn’t help but notice how tired and harassed Mia looked, as if she hadn’t had a decent night’s sleep. Rob told her it was incessant.

Ted was able to walk now and refused to use the wheelchair provided by the hospital. Further checks were required on his left eye, and for now, he was unable to work. He took a bow in his apron and was grateful to be kept busy helping Kelly with the food.