The response was overwhelming.

Strangers sent encouragement, and local customers came to the café asking for me by name.

A few people posted cruel messages, accusing me of inventing everything for a payoff.

Then a small envelope arrived by post at Leila’s office.

No return address.

Inside was a copy of an invoice marked with The Grand Bell’s name and an unfamiliar contractor: Harborline Facilities Services.

Across the bottom someone had written, in careful block letters: ASK WHO PAID TO CHANGE THE CAMERAS.