The silence was painful for Maria; it gave too much space for thought, too much time for fear. She walked into the bathroom and splashed some water over her face, taking time to look in the mirror. There was nothing physical to distinguish yesterday from today, but under her skin, the tension was painfully acute. What the hell was she going to do? Was this her life now? Drying her face, she walked slowly back into the cramped room.
Ellen stood before her, tall and straight, a look of determination on her face.
‘I have to let him know Paul is on his way.’
‘Who?’
‘Andrew. I have to tell him to come in here now.’
‘But you said they would trace the phones.’
‘I know that. I’m not calling, they stay off, I’m going to find his room.’
‘Do you think it’s a good idea to go outside? And anyway
