Bill turned to Lottie. The poor dear. He was as worried as her, but at least he could do something. He strode over, put his hand on the back of her head to pull her a little closer, and kissed her forehead, showing more tenderness than he probably had in a long time - something he regretted now that he felt that their safety was at stake. "I love ye, lass."

Then he turned and hurried out to catch up with Joe. His face was grim as he braced himself for what was to come.