While Erin crossed the hall on her way to the pool area, the lift doors across the room opened to reveal the Lowes, exhibiting the vexed and frustrated mien that was so familiar to Erin. Their approach to life meant they felt permanently deceived by the world, which refused to spin solely for their benefit. Erin’s step faltered when Mrs Lowe offered her a horrible scowl; with a sneer, Mr Lowe made as if to accost her, then abruptly hastened away, taking his wife by the elbow and steering her towards the lounge. Behind her, Garcia and another agent leant on a pillar while they watched the Lowes retreat.

Garcia shifted to Erin’s side. ‘I’ve read the whole report, Miss Lowe,’ he said. ‘Any trouble they cause you, come and tell us.’

She wondered what exactly the repor...

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