Sarah observed Felix through narrowed eyes. A woollen hat covered his hair, he was bundled up in a thick winter coat, and a backpack was slung across one shoulder.
‘Out where?’
‘Toilet.’
‘And do you always take a backpack with you to go to the loo?’
‘Fine. I was out walking.’
‘Walking? You realise it’s one in the morning?’
‘I’m aware of the time.’
‘Then why?…’
‘I just fancied a walk, OK?’
Felix's eyes wouldn’t meet Sarah’s, and she wondered what he was trying to hide. Was it was the mystery woman? ‘Whatever.’
‘You said there was someone outside your tipi?’
‘Yes, I saw a shadow moving around, then there was this awful screaming.’ Sarah shivered at the memory.
Felix scratched his chin and stood looking thoughtful. Then he burst out laughing.
‘Grab that lamp and follow me.’
‘No way am I going out there again.’
‘I’ll be with you. I’ve got a torch.’
‘It may still be out there.’
‘It may. Here, take this if it makes you feel safer.’ Felix handed the tree branch to Sarah. ‘Come on.’
Sarah followed Felix out into the night. The paraffin lamp threw pools of light onto the damp grass, the moon bathing the forest in a ghostly half-light. Beside Sarah’s tipi, Felix bent down to inspect the ground.
‘Aha. I think I’ve discovered the culprit. Look.’ Felix pointed at the grass beside his foot and Sarah leaned over to see for herself.
‘What am I looking at?’
‘Droppings.’
‘Droppings?’
‘Poo.’
‘Poo? This night just gets worse and worse.’
Felix laughed. ‘It’s not human, don’t worry.’
‘Well, I guess that’s something.’
‘Look, can you see it’s in a sort-of pit?’
‘Um, yes.’
‘That’s how I know Madge is responsible.’
