Page 228 of The Silent Appeal

I hope not.

Can’t decide whether bullet points are better than proper sentences when you’re feeling cold with nerves and excitement and terror and happiness. Why didn’t I remember this mixed-up feeling when I accepted the part of Gerda? I was so excited back then, boo!

I wonder how Nicky-Rose felt when she was a dancer? Do dancers get as nervous as actors, even though it must be easier because they don’t have lines to learn? I’ll ask when the play’s over, because she didn’t want to talk last night. Probably worried about the play. She’s asked me to meet her friend in Squires and give her something, because she’s too busy.

Have to get through this morning at work before I can rush back home, pack my rehearsal bag, and then stare at the clock until it’s time to leave.

Transcript of a meeting between Sergeant Crowe and Inspector Cooper of Lockwood Police, and Inspector David Lascelles of Bridgetown Police, Barbados, at 5:30 p.m. on June 5, 2025:

Sgt. Crowe: This is just for our records, Inspector.

Insp. Lascelles: I understand.

Insp. Cooper: Welcome to Lockwood. Please, feel free to use our vending machines, interview rooms, and Sergeant Crowe’s parking space.

Insp. Lascelles: Thank you.

Insp. Cooper: Funny, we’ve had a tip-off about a drugs drop today with a dealer from Barbados. I’ll dig out the chit for you.

Insp. Lascelles: Really? Please. Are you following up on the tip?

Insp. Cooper: Weren’t planning on it, staff issues, etc. I understand from your email that you’re looking to interview a local resident?

Insp. Lascelles: Nicky-Rose Dearing, worked at Twin Star Entertainment. Her mother and sister live in Lockwood.

Insp. Cooper: Sergeant Crowe, will you accompany the inspector? Just in case things turn nasty or he needs to make an arrest.

Sgt. Crowe: Will do.

Insp. Lascelles: Is that necessary?

Sgt. Crowe: Death in Paradise!

[Silence]

Insp. Cooper: What’s that, Sergeant Crowe?

Sgt. Crowe: Have you ever seen Death in Paradise, Inspector? Excellent show. Set in the Caribbean. Sun, sea, and murder.

Insp. Lascelles: Well, Barbados is in the Atlantic Ocean, but it would be pedantic to point that out.

[Silence]

Insp. Lascelles: I don’t think I’ll require Sergeant Crowe’s assistance, inspector. I don’t want to scare off Miss Dearing, so if you wouldn’t mind leaving me to my own devices…

Insp. Cooper: Understood, but best to have Sergeant Crowe with you, just in case you need our devices too.

Message exchange between Joyce Walford and Kevin MacDonald on June 5, 2025:

7:57 p.m. Joyce wrote:

The fizzy water isn’t priced, so flogging it for a pound a bottle.

7:58 p.m. Kevin wrote:

NO! Sarah-Jane’s client donated it for cast and crew. If he finds out we’re reselling it he’ll go botanical—don’t sell the BLISS BUBBLES!

7:59 p.m. Joyce wrote: