Page 61 of The Silent Appeal

Only the younger members liked it.

5:10 p.m. Sarah-Jane wrote:

Also, use-by dates were becoming an issue.

5:10 p.m. Kevin wrote:

He’s off-loading out-of-date stock, the gaslighter!

5:11 p.m. Sarah-Jane wrote:

It’s well within date. But retailers say sell-through is too slow and don’t want it, which is why he’s hired me: to increase sell-through.

5:13 p.m. Kevin wrote:

Just put “my toe is deformed for life” into your AI mindfulness app. It recommends I repeat the affirmation “I am not my toe.”

5:14 p.m. Sarah-Jane wrote:

It’s in beta phase.

To: Kevin MacDonald

From: Isabel Beck

Date: February 3, 2025

Subject: I’m back!

Hiya Kevin,

I came straight from work so am already at the hall. I’d rather be an hour early than a minute late! I’m huddled in the doorway, but don’t worry! I’ve got my big coat on and am quite cozy.

The streets are so quiet. I suppose it’s the dark and cold. Any moment now the others will start to arrive and the hall will be bustling and noisy for the whole evening. I haven’t been here for over six years, but it hasn’t changed a bit.

Reverend Josh just strode past on his way from the church to the vicarage. He didn’t spot me. I’m almost invisible here in the shadows. There’s someone else who can’t see me either, but I can see him waiting in his car, occasionally looking at his watch. I knew him a while ago. Fran is lovely, but she has one fault: she only sees the best in people.

Another car has pulled up. I think it’s Marianne and Karen. See you soon, Kevin. Do you still pick Joyce up? I’m looking forward to catching up with her! Love Issy xxx

Message exchange between Joyce Walford and Kevin MacDonald on February 3, 2025:

7:10 p.m. Joyce wrote:

I’m standing on my doorstep.

7:11 p.m. Kevin wrote:

Don’t wait in the cold. I’ll text when I’m outside.

7:12 p.m. Joyce wrote:

We need milk, biscuits, and mint tea bags.

7:25 p.m. Kevin wrote:

I’m outside.

7:26 p.m. Kevin wrote: