Silent - Conclusion

In the present, Gavin returns to his musical studies and learns to come to terms with Philippa's betrayal

Lucy, similarly, returns to her University studies in Manchester and comes to appreciate her family and the sacrifices they made for her.  

After a while, contact between Gavin and Lucy fizzles out as the past loses significance for them.

*** Spoiler if reading for the first time
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As Katie Whittacker explained in the denouement, her father-in-law Arthur Harlesden ordered the fire that killed Lucy's parents when Lucy was 8.

In the two time-frames of Silent, Arthur's grandson Steve played a destructive role, ultimately resulting in the fire at the Lyme House that killed the students (Philippa, Dawn, Paul). In the epilogue, Steve and Arthur are remanded into custody to await their trials

Finally, many thanks for reading this story. I have the posts arranged in document form now - any suggestions about publishing it as a stand-alone novella would be greatly appreciated.

Lawrence