‘Why would they? It’s in the past.’

‘So, when were Rachel and Ethan a couple?’

‘A few years ago,’ Fraser said. ‘They dated for just over three months. But then he ditched her and moved on to Libby.’

‘Then what happened between Ethan and Libby?’

‘They split up after about six months, which was unfortunate because despite what happened we like Ethan.’

‘Do you know why they broke up?’

‘They just grew apart as Libby’s job took up more and more of her time. They both agreed that it wasn’t working and decided to go their separate ways. I think they might have got back together if Libby hadn’t met Greg through her work.’

‘And how did Rachel cope with it all?’ James asked.

‘When Ethan dumped her, she was upset but not heartbroken. However, when she was told he had moved on to her sister she was mortified. She wouldn’t talk to Libby for weeks and continued to hold a grudge, which of course didn’t help their relationship.’

‘Did Rachel remain on speaking terms with Ethan?’

‘They’ve not seen much of each other in recent years, but when they were brought together on various occasions, she was always civil to him and there were no fireworks.’

‘And was it the same with Ethan and Libby?’ James asked.

‘Yes, that’s why Libby had no hesitation in inviting him to the wedding along with his mum. And before you ask, Inspector, I don’t believe he’s the one who killed Rachel.’

‘Then who do you think did?’

He locked eyes with James and there was a sudden gear change in his voice when he spoke. ‘Now that I know about the mysterious boyfriend, I’m assuming it must be him. So rather than wasting your time talking to me and the other wedding guests, I think you should be putting all your efforts into trying to find the bastard!’

CHAPTER NINETEEN

James accompanied Fraser Elliott up to the bridal suite only to be told by the officer on the door that his wife had returned to their own room, leaving their daughter alone inside.

‘I half expected this after Denise’s outburst,’ Fraser said, and James was reminded of how his wife had lost her temper with Libby and more or less blamed her for what had happened to Rachel. ‘I just hope it doesn’t mean we’ll lose our other daughter as well.’

Fraser once again started sobbing suddenly, unable to contain his anguish, and James asked him if he wanted to go in to see if his daughter was okay.

‘I think it best if I leave her by herself for a while,’ he replied in a shaky voice and so James walked with him to his room, which was on the next floor down.

When they reached it, he said, ‘I’ll be back soon, Mr Elliott. In the meantime, would you please ask your wife if she wants to stay here or go home so that she’s there when we search Rachel’s room?’