Part Two — Chapter Nineteen

Theo returns to Alicia’s former gallery, noting its cold, empty atmosphere and a new artist in the window. He introduces himself to the gallerist, Jean-Felix Martin, who readily agrees to talk and invites Theo to the back room for coffee.

Jean-Felix describes his background—Paris-born, long settled in London—and his long history with Alicia. He and Alicia met at art school, later painted houses together, and he eventually represented her work when her career rose as his own art ambitions waned. He admits disliking Gabriel, believing Gabriel resented or was jealous of his closeness with Alicia.

Pressed about the days before the murder, Jean-Felix says he visited Alicia at home because she was behind on work for an upcoming exhibition. He entered through an often-unlocked garden gate and an unlocked back door, found her inside rather than in the studio, and observed her as simply stressed about work, not volatile or dangerous.

Jean-Felix remarks that Theo sounds more detective than therapist, but still offers to show Alicia’s paintings. Theo notes the implications: easy access to the house, Jean-Felix’s intimate proximity to Alicia, and no visible warning signs before Gabriel’s death.