Jimmy tries to explain that Naomi is in danger, but Pendennis just shakes his head. The old boxing coach tells him he must have his shoulder strapped, to prevent muscle damage. Jimmy soon tires of his droning voice, getting to his feet when the man’s back is turned. He blunders outside, running up Kittern Hill, with Keith Pendennis trailing behind. The dawn chorus is deafening as gulls and terns swoop inland, but their song is hard to interpret. Does it mean that his friend is dead or alive? The cottage looks peaceful when he finally comes to a halt and Pendennis turns to face him.
‘It’s empty. Whatever scared you has gone away.’
Jimmy points at the house again, but the fitness coach shakes his head.
‘Only Rachel Carlyon has a key.’
Jimmy stares at him for a moment, then picks up a stone and hurls it at a ground floor window. The older man reacts fast when the pane explodes into fragments: he grabs the Birdman’s arm, bracing it at his side.
‘What the fuck are you doing? That’s someone’s property. You’ll have to pay for the damage.’
Jimmy tries to wrench free, determined to enter the cottage, even though his wounded shoulder is burning. He uses all of his strength to free himself, but Pendennis pins him down.