Page 208 of The Silent Appeal

Is our washer not mended yet?

5:48 p.m. Fran wrote:

I haven’t had time and don’t want to worry about that during play week.

5:51 p.m. Lucas wrote:

Ok, I’ll leave the girls here and come let you in.

5:52 p.m. Fran wrote:

Thanks.

To: Fran Elroy-Jones

From: Karen Payne

Date: June 2, 2025

Subject: Hi

Hi Fran,

Really hope you don’t mind me using your personal email address for a work thing. Only, you know I’m friendly with Sue in your department. Well, she knows we do Fairways together and today she asked me if you’re having any problems at home that might affect your performance at work. I don’t think she wanted to raise it with you in case she made it worse. I said you have a big part and that amateur drama is a lot of late nights and stress, especially during play week. She gave me that look, you know the one: “So why do you do it? It’s supposed to be a hobby!”

Only, I really hope it is just the play. If there’s anything else worrying you, you know we could always meet up and have a natter before rehearsals. Mark’s working until six tonight (I know, cutting it fine for the tech), so we could have a coffee in Squires? Let me know. Karen

To: Karen Payne

From: Fran Elroy-Jones

Date: June 2, 2025

Subject: Re: Hi

Really? Oh, that’s pants! I’m sorry Sue put you in that position. It’s not professional to ask a member of floor staff about my personal life, especially when we’re HR and should feel able to approach each other. Thank you for deflecting, not that there’s anything to deflect about.

You’re right about the play. This part is really taking a lot out of me. An eccentric, psychopathic aristocrat thirty years older than me—I didn’t realize playing against type would be so draining. I’m just putting a load of clothes in the wash, but yes, let’s have a coffee before tech. I’ll be in Squires at 5:30 p.m. Thanks again, Fran

Message exchange between Carol Dearing and Nicky-Rose Dearing on June 2, 2025:

6:02 p.m. Carol wrote:

How’s Kevin?

6:02 p.m. Nicky-Rose wrote:

Why ask me?

6:06 p.m. Carol wrote:

You’re working and directing the play with him. You see more of that man than Sarah-Jane does these days. How is he?

6:06 p.m. Nicky-Rose wrote:

Fine.

6:07 p.m. Carol wrote: