The sun warmed the air and lit the land. Birds conversed in the woods. The clock chimed eight. Time for Mattins at Templeton Towers.

It was Vanessa’s turn to attend. She and Freddie May stood next to each other in the far corner of the ante chapel. Both longed to see the crime scene, but it was still cordoned off. According to Mr. Szabo, it would remain inaccessible for some time to come.

Boy and girl watched as the staff filed in for morning prayer. First came the teaching assistants, then the teaching staff proper, in order of seniority, followed by the principal. Once they were all in place, the brothers appeared from their separate entrance. There was silence as Father Bernard looked around the assembled congregation. Vanessa shivered when it was her turn to be stared at. Freddie squeeze...

Please subscribe to keep reading.