BOOK 3

'Yes,' he snapped.

'Brand. It's Isabella—'

'So Mrs Crackitt said. What is it?'

She wiped a thin film of moisture off her upper lip. 'It's Connie,' she whispered. 'Brand, she's disappeared.'

'What? What did you say? You'll have to speak up.'

'I said it's Connie.' Isabella was shouting now. 'She's disappeared.'

'Dis—What do you mean, disappeared?' He sounded more impatient than worried.

Isabella explained. There was silence for a moment, and she felt as if she could actually hear him checking options and making snap decisions. Recriminations, she knew, would come later.

'Right,' he said brusquely. 'You stay right where you are. In case she comes back. Have you called the police?'

'Not yet. I—'

'Then do it. And tell Edwina and anyone else who can help to keep on searching. I'll join them as soon as I can get there.'

Brand was brisk, efficient and to the point. Isabella had no idea what he was feeling. Then he hung up.

She passed the message to Edwina, who nodded, and left at once to get