I don’t wish you any harm. I just need to find some answers so I can begin to properly greave for my son whatever he was to you. I’m sure you will understand and I hope you will do the right thing.

You can write back or call me on my mobile phone. The number is above.

Yours sincerely,

Irene Copeland (Mrs)

I don’t know if it was the spelling and grammar mistakes, or the way it all seemed to have been vomited out onto the page in a rush of grief. But her words hit me squarely in the solar plexus. I pictured this old lady, sitting in her house unable to understand what had happened to her.

Surely it would be better if she had an answer, even if it was a painful one?

The idea felt toxic as it began to form in my mind, so much so that it actually nauseated me and sent me rushing to get a glass of water, which I poured with shaking hands.

I was going to try and put an end to this whole business. For her, but mainly for Anya and for me.

I picked up my phone and tapped out a reply.

IRENE

Irene had never had such a lot of messages as she had in these last couple of weeks, so when her phone had vibrated on the coffee table, she almost ignored it at first.

It seemed that all sorts of people were getting in touch with her, which was nice, of course. A few weeks ago she would have been delighted to hear from old friends in that way. But now she had little inclination to see or speak to any of them.

This was a bad attitude though, she knew that. It was the kind of thinking that sent you into an early grave. Not that this held much fear for her any more, not now.

So with a slight groan she made herself lean forward and pick up the phone.

When she read the message a bolt of surprise pierced her so keenly that she let out a little gasp.

Mrs Copeland, I will talk to you if you think it will help you come to terms with the death of your son. I will come to you, or you can suggest a place to meet. If this sounds acceptable please text back where and when we should meet.

Anastasia Ryland.

Irene hadn’t replied straight away. She was too flustered. She contemplated asking Rowan’s advice but knew that the other woman would insist she was there for the meeting.