The Orlova, sadly, was in view again, floating like a dark blot on the landscape. The ghost ship had switched from being an important investigation to a threat to herself, her family and her friends.

When her work had proved life-threatening in the past, she’d given no thought to her Orcadian family and what they might feel if anything bad happened to her. She’d blithely ignored the danger and did whatever she thought necessary for success.

But back then Mark was with you, a small voice said. His courage and conviction made her stronger.

Plus I never stopped hoping.

Ava now made for the boathouse, picturing herself opening the door to find the Fear Not inside and Dougie, having returned during the night, still asleep aboard, something he’d done on numerous occasions before. Why not this time? She began to run, hoping that what she wished for might yet come true.

The closer she got, the more the hope began to dissolve, and she knew before she reached for the door that there would be only emptiness within.

Staring into the darkness, Ava now pictured another future. One in which she’d also lost her brother. The thought almost overwhelmed her and she had to grip the door post to prevent herself from falling.

It was the sound of a vehicle coming down the farm track that roused her from her frightened trance.

From this distance she couldn’t tell who it was, although it definitely wasn’t a police car. So it probably wasn’t news of Dougie. Good or bad.

Steadying herself, Ava set out for the house.

‘Ava.’ Tommy Flett came striding to meet her. ‘I’m sorry I didn’t come over earlier. I’ve been off the island this past week. Erling’s just brought me up to date on what’s been happening.’

Erling’s father looked a lot like his son, she thought. Their voices too had a similar ring. Quietly spoken, Tommy’s Orkney accent was the richer. Ava had loved to listen to him and her father talking together in the kitchen, struggling sometimes to work out exactly what was being said, they’d used so many of the old words and expressions.

‘Come away in,’ Ava said. ‘I’ll make us tea – or coffee if you prefer?’

‘A mug of tea will do fine,’ Tommy said.

Once they were both seated with their tea, Tommy said, ‘Any news of Dougie?’

Ava shook her head.

‘Well, I wouldn’t worry. The boy’s had a lot to face recently and, frankly, he’s dealt with it remarkably well. Your mum and dad would be proud of you both.’ He met her eye. ‘Dougie will be back when he’s ready. He needs time alone. He’ll not come to any harm. The boy can handle his boat in all weathers. Plus he knows these waters like the back of his hand.’