It was towards midnight the next day when Bianca received a short, one-line text from St Just. Her Masters had kept her informed, all throughout the operation. Cuddling Cian, who had a bit of a sniffle and was generally restless and clinging to her, Bianca turned on the dim bedside light and read the message. Her heart was pounding.

Found Hila, it read. Safe. Alive.

Just four words, but enough to make her clutch her son to her chest and sob in joy.

St Just and O’Grady ...