This was the moment he should resign and take Colin with him, Greg thought. Walking up the drive, he’d imagined Stratton trying to sack him, and him getting in first with his resignation.

The way this was playing out wasn’t at all what he’d anticipated.

A brief silence followed before Chalmers said, ‘We will be here for another couple of days, but won’t be needing either you or your apprentice. You can return to your normal duties for now.’ At this he turned away.

‘What about Mr Stratton?’ Greg said.

‘It’s not necessary to wait for him. I’ve said what was required.’

And with that he was summarily dismissed.

Emerging from the house, he looked up to find Chalmers on the balcony watching his departure. Greg was reminded of the previous night when he’d had the stag in his sights, just before it had darted away. He had the feeling of being in Chalmers’s sights, but luckily with no rifle in his hands.

For some reason he had been spared Stratton’s wrath. He wondered why that should be. He also wondered why the two men were remaining there alone, without catering staff, and what business they were conducting in the emptiness of Ard Choille.

As he released the dogs with a whistle, they came bounding towards him.

Greg allowed himself a fraction of a smile as he climbed into the Land Rover. He’d been praying for Stratton’s departure and not only did it look as though he was actually going, it would happen in a couple of days’ time. Added to that, he need not see either man again before they left.

Greg

As he drove through the open gates, he felt a new sense of freedom. He would call Colin and give him the good news, tell him to use the day to do whatever he liked. He hoped Karla might play a part in that.

He now headed back to Beanach to check on Joanne and prepare them both some breakfast. If she was up for it, they might make the most of the continued good weather. There were other places he could take her, the waterfall being one, or she might prefer heading back to their spot at An Lochan Uaine.

As he crested the hill, he realized there was a car outside the house, and recognized it as Malcolm’s. He’d been aware he’d need to call on Malcolm and tell him what had subsequently happened last night, so was pleased he didn’t have to head to the village to do it in person.

Entering the kitchen, he found the two of them seated at the table, drinking what smelled like freshly brewed coffee.

Joanne looked up with a smile at his entry and he noted that she appeared a lot better than she had last night, when he’d helped her back from the woods.