“I’m thinking you probably did them a favor. Christy was an only child. I’m sure Elizabeth was pleased for her to have company.”

“You knew Elizabeth?”

“No. I’m guessing, based on what I know about Christy. I met Elizabeth once, at the wedding. She seemed like the kind of person with a very definite idea of what she wanted.”

“Elizabeth’s life was a thing of precision. Everything scheduled and controlled. But she was kind to me.” She felt a stab of emotion as she thought about Elizabeth. You girls are lucky to have formed such a strong friendship. No matter what happens in life, you’ll always have each other.

Alix had assumed that was true. But what if it wasn’t? She’d never considered that their friendship might change, but it had.

What did it mean?

The only person who had ever loved her unconditionally was Christy. Christy had been there for her at the worst point of her life, and Alix felt an unwavering loyalty. But now, it seemed, Christy didn’t need her anymore, and the thought of it ripped at her in a way nothing else had. It wasn’t only the profound sense of loss she felt, it was also anxiety. If her problems were with Seb, who was Christy talking to? Who was supporting her?

She discreetly checked her phone, but there was nothing from Christy.

Alix sent her a message to say that they’d landed safely and that Holly was fine.

She wanted so badly to fix things, but she had no idea how. It wasn’t as if she could undo the past; although, if she could have done that, then she would have.

“So you were the sister Christy never had.”

Alix had almost forgotten Zac’s presence. “Yes, I suppose. We’re close.” Her mouth was dry. Right now they didn’t feel close. “And I know you think I interfere, but I want her to be happy, that’s all.”

“And you don’t think Seb makes her happy?”

“I don’t know. All I know is that if there are problems, then it’s unlikely to be Christy’s fault. She’s the warmest, kindest, most loyal person I’ve ever met. In fact, she’s pretty much perfect.” She waited for him to say something in response. “You don’t agree?”

He shrugged. “No one is perfect, Alix.”

“Christy is.” How could he not see that? “Even as a child she had high standards. Do you know she used to tidy her bedroom every day? She was never late with her homework, never spilled food on her clothes and never forgot anything.” Alix smiled to herself. “I remember one Christmas, Elizabeth gave her a special notebook with pages for planning and to-do lists. I thought it was the most boring gift imaginable, but Christy loved it. She still makes lists now, exactly like her mother. Every year she has a new notebook.”

“What about the other stuff? Smoking? Drugs? Teenage rebellion? Staying out late? Dropping her clothes on the floor and never picking them up?”