Page 120 of The Stranger in Room Six

That afternoon, another brick is thrown, this time through Mabel’s window. More people withdraw their loved ones, but Mabel refuses to leave Sunnyside, despite Harry’s pleas to find a safer place.

‘I’m innocent,’ she says. ‘Why should I hide? Besides, this has been my home since I was a child.’

I can see the writing on the wall. Sunnyside won’t be able to survive this.

Imran texts again.

Are you all right? I’ve seen some of the messages on social media. They’re scary.

I don’t reply. I shouldn’t have given him my number.

The following day, I’m in the reception area when a taxi draws up. A smart, stout woman in a velvet coat climbs out, supported by a wooden cane. She looks around curiously, then hobbles cautiously up to the front door.

‘Who are you visiting?’ asks the receptionist through the intercom.

‘Mabel Marchmont.’

‘Can you give me your name please?’

‘Certainly. It’s Dame Frances Buss. But Mabel may remember me as Frannie.’