THE Guest

There was definitely more to Jasmine than first met the eye, but could she really be responsible for this act of betrayal?

- Teresa Ashby

THE STORY SO FAR:

Nora is struggling after her partner David disappears having borrowed all her savings. She takes on an extra job as a cleaner for Marie, a newcomer to the village, when she should be working from home. Then, one day her subterfuge is discovered when B&B guest Jasmine answers the phone to Nora’s boss, Stella, and lets slip that Nora is out at her other job. Stella is furious. Nora finally accepts that it’s David’s fault she’s in this position and texts him to warn him that she’s going to take action if he doesn’t pay back what he owes. When Nora still fails to hear back, she goes to see a solicitor. Nora’s younger sister Elle, who lives with her, thinks that Jasmine could have come to their village for a reason and warns Nora to be careful. Nora thinks she’s being overly alarmist, but when everyone has gone to bed, she double checks all the windows and doors are locked, just in case.

I’d like to extend our stay by another week if that’s OK?’ Jasmine said towards the end of the week. ‘I’ll pay in advance again.’

‘Of course it’s OK,’ Nora said. ‘I’ve loved having you both here, but…’

‘But?’ Jasmine frowned. ‘Has someone else booked the room?’