Murder On Bwytheney by Elizabeth. Newby (phonics story books TXT) 📗

knew their Central Library had what I wanted to check. We could have a weekend catch up, and I could do my research. Caz and her children were always happy to look after Shadow.

True to form, Dan text me back just a few minutes later, "YES, GIRL! It's been WAY too long!"

“Come on, Shadow,” I said, “I’ve got a boat to book. Let’s take a stroll.”

Obedient as ever, he plodded over to my side, and we made our way down to the marina. Not far from the jetty was the little portacabin office where you could book your trips and buy tickets. You could do it online, but one of the best changes I made when moving to this island was doing more things in person. Not only did we get fresh air and exercise, but we could also have a chat and catch up.

I could see Aaron sitting behind the desk in the office, engrossed in something on the computer. If I knew Aaron, he would be watching YouTube videos of his favourite computer game or different ships worldwide. It was the only two things that really interested Aaron. He started working at the marina when he was still in school, having pestered for almost a year about a Saturday job. As soon as school had finished, he started full time.

"Hi, Aaron, how are you?"

"Cara, good to see you. I'm good, thanks. More importantly, how's Shadow?"

“He’s good, aren't you, boy?"

Shadow barked his approval which made Aaron laugh. “Want to book a trip?”

“Yes, please. I’d like to go to the mainland tomorrow if possible. I know you get booked up, but I can do any time of day. And returning on Sunday.”

“Sure, no problem.”

Aaron handed me my tickets which I stuck in my pocket. I stopped carrying a handbag about six months after arriving in Bwytheney.

As I started walking away, passengers were disembarking from one of the boats that had arrived from the mainland. There was a familiar face.

“Pam," I shouted while waving my hand, madly in the air. Good one, Cara. She might not even remember you. She's probably wondering who's the crazy lady.

But Pam broke into a smile and waved back, making her way over to me. “Hey, how are you?”

"Oh, I'm okay, thanks. It's been a bit crazy around here. But you just have to keep going.”

“Yes, I heard there was another murder. Awful. Are you free now? I’m back to sort some things out at the campsite, but it would be great to have some company.”

“Yes, sure. Actually, you might be able to help me with something." I bit my bottom lip. Things were racing around my head, and I needed to share it with someone. Pam was probably the best person, even if she did end up thinking I was losing it.

Twenty minutes later, we were sat in Melissa's kitchen. It was the first time I had been here since that night. It felt eerie to be sat there again, knowing Melissa was no longer here.

“So, what can I help you with?” asked Pam.

“I’ve been thinking about what you said.”

“What I said?”

“About Melissa having a baby. You said he was born in 1994?”

“Yes, it was so sad. I think it affected Melissa for the rest of her life more than she'd admit. I suspect it's why she avoided relationships. You know, she's included him in her will? Wanted to leave him everything if he had shown up at any point in her life.”

“Well, I’ve tracked down two possible births that could be her son, assuming the birth was in Liverpool. If you had the date of birth or the name of her baby, it would make the next step easier.”

“Mark, his name was Mark. Palmer obviously. He was born in June 1994. I don’t remember the exact date.”

“That’s okay, we don’t need it. That fits with one of them I found.”

“But what’s this got to do with Melissa’s murder?”

“I don’t know exactly. I just have a hunch, one that won’t go away. But I'll know more after the weekend. I'm sorry to be cagey, but I promise to tell you more when I'm back."

“What’s going on? Where are you going?”

“Manchester. I need to visit their library. After that, I'll know one way or the other."

Chapter 15

The crossing over to the mainland was quiet enough. I was travelling against the flow of traffic. Most of those travelling between Liverpool and Bwytheney at this time of day were returning from their work in the city to their home on the island. Of course, the later ferries heading to the city would be full of those seeking a night out in the clubs, surrounded by beer and sweaty bodies. But my journey was quiet. I was able to sit back and look out to sea.

On a good day, you could occasionally spot the coast of Ireland, but on this trip, it remained hidden. I did spot a porpoise or two dancing in the waves, and it reminded me that I was overdue a visit to Moursoin Isle. It was known as the spot for spotting the porpoise as they often came close to the shoreline.  It was a smaller and quieter island but perfect for a break with a good book and some sightseeing. Shadow also got to enjoy the more tranquil beaches and rockpools.

It didn’t take long to get to Liverpool and hop on a train to Manchester. The city was as bustling as ever. There were the crowds of people to weave my way between and, of course, trams to watch out for. It was a city that welcomed you into its chaos and proudly displayed its many cultures. I always had a good time when I visited, and I knew Dan loved living here. Island life had slowed me down, though. I relished my weekends here, living the fast pace of life as the vibrant city filled my senses. But I welcomed the calm back on Bwetheney, where I could rest and recuperate.