The Club

The article traces the history of Home, founded by one of Ned Groom’s ancestors and intended as a club for working professionals in the West End theater. Initially named Home Club, it peaked in the 1920s and 1930s. By 1992, the date of Ned’s inheritance, it was a small, rundown club with a dying membership. Ned quit a thriving career in law, renovated the building, and edged out the older members. He clashed with English Heritage, which curbed what he could do with the landmark, a dispute that disappeared after a convenient fire in 1993.

The article notes that many found Ned’s approach to the island equally “vandalistic.” In the immediate aftermath of the tragedy, people decried his temper and bullying, claiming to be unsurprised that someone died. Then, it was discovered that Ned was missing.

Nikki

Nikki takes her usual jog around the island but still feels foggy. She runs into Jess and introduces herself. She once would have done more to orient a new employee but no longer bothers because those who don’t quickly adapt don’t last. She silently doubts that the “sweet” Jess will survive.

She heads to Island Home’s spa for an IV vitamin drip, acting on Ned’s suggestion that she take a little time for herself.