‘We can take the paintings with us, and yes, it does matter to me. I know it’s nice weather now, but most of the time this country is so grey and cold. It’s so different in Jamaica. I’ll take you there one day and then you’ll understand how I feel.’

‘Yeah, yeah, yeah … I’ve heard it all before, Sam. I’ll buy you a house … I’ll take you to Jamaica … I’ll buy us a television set, oh, and a motorcar, and there was the record player you promised me. What about the engagement ring? I still haven’t seen that! You’re full of empty promises and I’m sick of it!’ Mo shouted. ‘You even made me take back that radio.’

‘Not that again, woman. I’m fed up with hearing about it.’

Mo stomped to the window and looked out onto the street. It was a gorgeous day, the sun bright, and surely paintings of some weird poxy flowers could wait.

Samuel placed his paintbrush on his palette and walked over to her. He pulled her close and nibbled gently on her earlobe. ‘My promises aren’t empty, Mo. I will get you all those things and more, you just have to be patient with me. I’m working hard, for us and for our future family.’

Mo’s body flinched at the mention of children. She wasn’t prepared to tell him she didn’t want any, so strategically changed the subject. ‘I know, Sam, I just needed a little rant. I feel better now and I’ll leave you in peace to carry on with your paintings, which, by the way, ain’t stupid. I’ll pop to the shops and fetch us back something delicious for dinner.’

Samuel kissed her goodbye, but she slammed the front door on her way out as the anger that she’d managed to suppress bubbled to the surface again. Stupid, stubborn man, she thought.

As she walked along the road, Mo began to calm down. She’d go to the market and at least she could have a bit of banter with the barrow boys. It felt good to be out in the fresh air and feel the warm sun on her face. She wiggled her hips as she walked and held her chin high. She was aware of heads turning to look at her, and enjoyed the attention, especially from the men. I’m wasted here, she thought, and imagined she was in America, walking down Sunset Boulevard.