They arrived at Kendalton Station twenty minutes later and Steph pulled up into a drop-off bay. ‘Will you text me when you’re home safe?’ she asked as Sonia opened the door.

‘Yes, and I want you to do the same when you’re back at the resort.’

‘Stay in touch,’ called Steph as Sonia closed the door and headed into the station. Steph remained in the parking bay for a moment, her head resting back as she watched through the railings for Sonia to appear on the platform.

Had that altercation with the 4x4 really happened? Had they actually been purposely run off the road? It seemed so surreal and frightening too. She blinked back a few tears which were threatening to tip from her eyes. She was OK. Sonia was OK. As Sonia said, they must be on to something, otherwise that would never have happened. She didn’t think for one moment the Audi episode was a one-off incident, caused by someone being reckless. It had the air of a targeted attack and either she or Sonia were the target, or possibly both of them. Surely, it had something to do with Elizabeth. There couldn’t be any other explanation, could there? She mulled this over. There was, of course, Owen and what she’d assumed was a drug deal taking place, but was that enough to warrant such a serious attack? Were the Sinclairs that ruthless?

Steph saw Sonia walk along the platform and give a small wave. A few minutes later the train pulled into the station and was then on its way. With the platform now empty and Steph reassured that Sonia was safe, she reversed the car out of the space and turned in the direction of Conmere House.

Conmere House, Sunday, 12 May, 2.55 p.m.

Driving into the resort car park, Steph was grateful she didn’t have to pass too close to the front of the house. She really didn’t want to draw attention to the dented and grazed side of her car. If she was lucky, she’d be able to find a parking spot in the corner and tuck her car away where no one would notice.

Fortunately, she was able to nab a spot bordered by a box hedge. She took her handbag and case from the car and made for the house. She needed to find someone at Reception to tell her what room she was now in. As she entered the main hall, her heart sank: standing at the desk in conversation with the receptionist was Dominic. He looked up as she approached.

‘Ah, Miss Durham,’ he said, with a smile which looked anything but welcoming. ‘We were just talking about you.’

‘All good, I hope,’ said Steph with little conviction.