Mum’s shoulders slumped. ‘Eddie Holmes.’

I stiffened at the mention of his name. Murderer. The drunk driver who killed Dad. ‘What about him?’

‘There was an article in The Bay News. He was drink driving again and he hit a young girl on a zebra crossing.’

My stomach lurched and I thought for a moment I might be sick. ‘Did he kill her?’

‘Thankfully no. She was hurt, but nothing life-threatening.’

The nausea passed and I slumped back in my chair, shaking my head. ‘He should have been locked up for life.’

‘I know, sweetheart. I know.’ She looked at Sam. ‘He was the drunk driver who killed Jemma’s dad. Don’t even get me started on what I think of the justice system for the ridiculously short sentence they bestowed on him. First offence, my arse. Pleaded guilty so they’re more lenient, my arse. Ooh, and a driving ban. Like that was going to make any difference when he was already banned for having too many points and had no tax and insurance anyway.’

‘I’m sorry. That must have been so hard on you all. It sounds like that news was the straw that broke the camel’s back, Julie. I’d suggest that, on autopilot, you headed for what had once been your sanctuary – your home before Eddie Holmes took Jemma’s dad away from you all.’

It didn’t surprise me that he’d hurt someone else. It was inevitable when he hadn’t been banged up for life. Why had they let him out? Why had he been able to return to life as he’d known it, barely impacted by the carnage he’d left behind?

I pushed my angry thoughts out of my mind and focussed on what Sam was saying. The more he talked about stress, the more it made sense. He advised Mum to make an appointment with her GP to have her blood pressure monitored and explore stress and depression. He approved of the decisions she’d already made around resigning from the valuation work and having me supporting in the shop. He advised her that, whilst she probably wouldn’t notice an immediate impact because she’d no doubt be stressed about the adjustment to her routine, she would notice it soon enough.

Sam looked at his watch. ‘It’s nearly nine. I’ve been interrogating you both for the best part of three hours. You must be exhausted, Julie.’

‘I am actually. But it was worth it. I can’t thank you enough, Sam.’ Mum yawned and stretched. ‘I need to go to bed. Are you okay if Jemma sees you out?’

‘Of course. Good night, Julie. Please get in touch if you have any other questions.’ He handed her a business card. ‘Definitely get in touch with your GP though.’

‘I will. I promise.’