The Villa of Secrets

It was still dark when Cleo woke after a few hours of fitful sleep, but there were lights on in various tents, including the triage station. Maya was still sleeping but Tash’s bed was empty and her shoes were missing; she’d obviously risen already.

Feeling guilty for having left her post for so long, Cleo got up quietly and pulled yesterday’s sweatshirt on over her pyjamas. Then she padded across the damp grass towards the shower facilities.

It was sheer joy to find volunteers there, Marina and Katerina among them, handing out individual drawstring bags containing soap, shampoo, a comb, toothbrush, toothpaste and a small, clean towel. They also gave Cleo a change of clothes.

‘There are a few free cubicles,’ Marina said, pointing. ‘Help yourself.’