Matt was looking at a nightmarish painting of some hideous creature digging what looked like a grave out on the marsh. Next to it, lying on the muddy ground, was a bundle wrapped in filthy dark material. Lantern light just managed to catch a tiny, child’s foot sticking out from the folds of the covering. It was brilliantly executed — yet horribly disturbing.

He replaced the sheet exactly as it had been and was back at Kate’s table, just in time to hear her mount the stairs.

A few seconds later, she came in. ‘Sorry about that, Matt. Have you had a chance to look at them?’

Oh yes, thought Matt, and I’ve seen far too much. ‘They’re quite incredible, Kate. You’re a very talented artist.’

He had no idea how he managed to keep his voice steady. All he wanted to do was run from that room and out into the fresh air.

As they made their way back down the stairs, Matt was struck by the realisation that it wasn’t Holland House that was affecting the sensitive Kate with its sinister history — it was the other way round. It was she who was polluting the house with her unhealthy obsession and dark thoughts. Seeing that picture caused the freshly decorated lounge to reek of malevolence, where previously, Matt had seen a delightful room full of light, with a wonderful view of wild marshland.

Back in the kitchen, he said, ‘I’ll let you get on, Kate. Tell Will I called, and I’ll pick you up at a quarter to twelve tomorrow, okay?’ He hoped he sounded casual enough. At least he was good at concealing his feelings — you had to be in his old job. He even waved cheerily as he pulled away, until, out of sight of the house, he floored the accelerator.

* * *

Laura Archer arrived punctually at four thirty, to be greeted by a warm hug from Liz. Laura, and her friend Sam Page, had helped Liz enormously when she was recovering from her traumatic last case and she owed them a lot.

It was the first time Laura had visited Tanners Fen, and she gazed around in approval. ‘What an idyllic spot! It’s so peaceful.’

Liz thought of Kate Stonebridge’s equally beautiful situation, but there was no peace there. Matt had returned from his visit to Holland House in shock. He’d had his first insight into Kate’s state of mind, and it had shaken him.

They went inside and Liz offered their guest some tea. ‘Matt’s just tidying himself up. He won’t be long. He’s been stacking logs in the store, ready for next winter.’

As Liz was bringing the tea, Matt arrived. His first words were, ‘Am I glad to see you!’

‘That sounded pretty emphatic,’ Laura said.