Silent - Searching In Despair

Two Years Ago, Gavin

Missing you xxx Philippa had texted.

The compulsory morning session over, I caught another taxi back to the House. Philippa wasn't in her room.

Where are you? I texted.  

I searched through the grounds, my eyes playing tricks on me from the heat and lack of sleep. I hurried past the water fountains, through the landscaped gardens, the weather getting muggier.  

Down the grassy mound and round the back to the Remembrance Garden, sweat pouring from my forehead and face, onto my t-shirt. Along the driveway in the clammy August air, past clusters of trees and miniature water fountains.  I thought I was going mad. Turning around, I returned to the House.

At the entrance to the Remembrance Garden, a voice called my name.  Just like Lucy's yesterday.

But this time, Philippa.