Page 65 of Worse Than Murder

‘Make that your life’s motto. I can see something bad has happened to you. It’s etched on your face. But you’ve survived it. Let it make you stronger.’

That kind of makes sense and I offer him a placatory smile. ‘I’m not sure I have survived this time, but thank you.’ I stand up. It’s time for me to leave before the tears come.

‘You’re the detective staying at Nature’s Diner, aren’t you?’ he asks.

‘Does everyone know everyone in High Chapel?’

‘I’m afraid so,’ he says with a smile which lights up his face. ‘Matilda Darke, isn’t it?’

‘It is.’

‘I read about you in the news. I’m sorry for your loss.’

‘Thank you.’ I put my bag on my shoulder and edge further away from the table.

‘What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger,’ he calls out to me.

I look back but I don’t say anything.

* * *

On returning to the restaurant, I find Philip outside with his back pressed against the wall, looking out over the lake. He’s taking a photo of the view on his phone.

‘What are you doing?’

He shows me the picture on his phone. ‘Look at that.’

‘What am I seeing?’

‘The view.’

‘Why do you need a photo of it when it’s right there?’

‘This is what the diners would see from the basement if we put a window in here,’ he says, turning to the wall and showing me the square outline he’s drawn onto the bricks.

‘Are you trying to convince yourself?’

‘I am, actually. I’ve had the estimate through for such a simple yet elaborate window. Who’d have thought a piece of plain glass would cost so much?’

‘How much are we talking?’

‘Five figures.’

‘Wow.’

‘Not low five figures, either.’

‘Can you afford it?’

‘I can, but would it add value to the business?’ From his back pocket, Philip brings out a printed plan Carl has drawn up on his tablet. He unfolds it and hands it to me.

I take the sheet and I’m impressed by Carl’s detailed design.

‘It does look good. He’s even put a terrace in front of the window so people could sit outside.’

‘I know. Even I didn’t think of that.’

‘He’s got a real eye.’