Nell: Charlie says I am to expect a phone call. Things are starting to move and he thinks they will be in touch.
Me: I am dreadfully worried about this, Nell. Are you sure we shouldn’t tell the police?
Nell: No police.
Me: Oh my goodness, Nell. Your phone is ringing.
Nell: Give it to me. “Yes. Nell speaking. I want to talk to Harriet first. No, I need to talk to her.”
Me: Is it them?
Nell: Yes. They are getting her.
Me: I can’t bear this.
Nell: Quiet! “Harriet, it’s me, Auntie Nell. Are you ok? We are going to get you out of there. We promise. We love you too. Yes. Of course you can. Anything you want. I will. He’s fine it was just a black eye. Who? Yes. Be brave. Not long now. Harriet!”
Me: What happened?
Nell: She’s gone.
Me: What did she say? Is she ok?
Nell: Hush! It’s them again. “Yes. I’m still here. Where? What time? Completely alone? Yes. Ok. I will be there.”
Me: Tell me.
Nell: Harriet sounded tired but determined. She says she is ok and asked if she can still have a birthday cake when she comes home. Bless her. She sends her love to us all. She says to tell David she is thinking of him all the time and they will celebrate their birthday together. She was worried about Mutley and sent special love to Jim. Who on earth is Jim?
Me: The floppy haired farm dog. He tried to save her. Remember?
Nell: Oh yes.
Me: What did they say?
Nell: They told me to meet them on Bantham beach at 5am tomorrow. I have to bring the cufflink and I must be alone. They will bring Harriet. I am to walk towards them along the beach.
Me: You can’t go alone, Nell.
Nell: I can and I will. James can drop me at the car park and wait for me there.
Me: But Nell…
Nell: I am bringing Harriet home tomorrow and I am going alone. No arguments. It’s something I have to do.
Me: Ok. Sorry.
