‘Buenas noches,’ I said, as a surge of tenderness shot through me. He looked up with wide, tired eyes. ‘Laura – thank you,’ he replied, his voice hoarse with exhaustion. He squeezed my hand, and I felt the hot prickle of my tears. Within seconds Santo’s breathing fell into the gentle rhythm of deep sleep. My phone beeped with a text from David.‘All safe. Will be in touch.’My shoulders relaxed a little, but I wished he’d given more details. I was very relieved to hear from him.I found the mess hall, a huge room abuzz with scientists and tradespeople speaking Spanish, loudly. Travis and Kate were eating dinner, a bottle of whisky glowing amber on the table in front of them. Kate’s eyes were swollen from crying; Travis was sombre. After phoning my mother, and with Santo out of earshot because he was still with Doctor Ramos and the detective, I had relayed the awful news about Georgia.I distractedly chose a plate of paella, and sat down to quiz Travis about what he did and didn’t know.
