‘Ceana says you are intuitive, and I think you will be able to spot someone who is struggling, or outside their comfort zone.’

‘Intuitive?’

He stares at me, blankly. ‘You didn’t know she was psychic?’

‘No. And you?’

His smile is humble. ‘Sadly, not, because I envy her that quality. I live my life according to my ethos.’

‘Which is?’

‘Live as if you only have one life; but I believe we have many. Celebrate the good qualities in people, but always lead by example. And finally, good deeds often go unrewarded, but seldom unnoticed – it would be a better world if everyone kept that in mind. Simple.’

Pierce is anything but simple. How that will change things here, I have no idea, but we’re all about to find out.

‘Hi, Mum and Dad.’ Kellie stares at the screen, nervously.

I reach across and squeeze her hand.

‘Exciting things are happening here, and I really do want to stay and be a part of it. Fern is here, she’s Nico’s assistant, and I thought if you have any questions, now’s the time to ask them.’

I feel it would be polite to introduce myself properly. ‘Hello, Mr and Mrs Preston. My name is Fern Wyman. I’m a manager of a Human Resources department back in the UK, but I’m taking a year’s sabbatical to work as a volunteer at the retreat. I’m halfway through that year as we speak. It’s only natural there are things you’d like to ask as I have a sister who is about the same age as Kellie, so I understand your concerns. So, please, feel free to pose any questions you have and I’ll do my best to answer them.’

There’s no eye contact between them and the body language is non-existent. Their chairs are a couple of feet apart.

‘Kellie, it’s time you came home,’ Mr Preston says, totally ignoring my little speech.

‘I agree,’ his wife joins in. ‘Strangers don’t have the same level of interest and concern as family, Kellie. I don’t see why you need to stay any longer.’

Considering Kellie has shared the fact that they seldom agree on anything, they seem united on this, at least.

I can see Kellie beginning to panic, her face has frozen.

‘We all want the best for Kellie, I can assure you of that. The change in her since she’s been here is incredible. You have raised one very determined and capable young woman,’ I acknowledge, hoping to foster some goodwill.

‘Well, it’s easy to say that glibly, but she’s fragile and we’ve seen that with frightening results. This was supposed to be a little holiday for her, Ms Wyman, nothing more. It’s time she came home.’ Her father looks adamant.

Kellie stares at me, the colour draining from her face.