‘I’m sure Kate would have put it better, but . . .’

Matt squeezed his arm. ‘No one could have put it better, mate. You said it all.’

Back in the car, Mitch asked if they would like to go on to the Chapel of Rest.

Will shook his head firmly. ‘No thanks, Mitch. I appreciate your offer, but I prefer to think of them like this.’ He took a photo from his wallet and handed it to Mitch, who passed it to Matt.

It was a holiday snap sent from a vacation in the Bahamas showing Guy and Eva sitting on the edge of a sparkling azure pool, laughing at their toddler daughter, who was splashing happily around in an inflatable baby floater.

‘Probably for the best, Will,’ said Mitch. ‘Good-looking couple, weren’t they?’

‘Yep. Eva had all the looks in our family. Sadly, she had the brains as well. I got left with very little in either department.’

‘Don’t you believe him,’ said Matt. ‘This man was one of the smartest detectives I ever worked with.’

Mitch said he didn’t doubt that. He then asked if he could give them a sightseeing tour instead.

Matt thought that would be a great idea, something to keep Will occupied, but surprisingly, Will declined. ‘Would you mind if we went back to the hotel? If it’s okay with Matt, I think I will take advantage of the swimming pool and the steam room. It’s all been a bit traumatic, especially seeing Sophie, and I’ve still got tomorrow to get through.’

‘No problem. I’ll give you my mobile number. If you fancy a trip downtown this evening, or just want some company, call me. My commanding officer has put me at your service 24/7.’

Will took the man’s number and thanked him. ‘A drink or two later might be just the thing. If so, we’ll give you a call.’

After the airman had left them, Will said, ‘Are you okay with this, Matt? I should have asked what you wanted to do.’

‘The pool sounds perfect. I assume there’s a shop on site where we can buy bathing trunks?’

‘Yes, I read it in the hotel info.’ Will looked apologetic. ‘I drag you all this way and don’t even let you see the sights. Some friend I am.’

‘Look, I’m fully aware that this is no jolly boys’ outing, so don’t beat yourself up. If you need to unwind, where better? Let’s go check out that pool.’

* * *

After half an hour of swimming, Will was starting to feel some of the tension leave his muscles. Swimming always relaxed him. As a kid he had loved the water, and after his accident he had been encouraged back into the pool as a form of therapy. He would think of nothing but his breathing, and the rhythmic strokes of his limbs. He guessed it was his form of meditation.