‘You know you can always come to us if you’re struggling, don’t you?’ Mum says. ‘Money-wise, I mean.’

My eyes narrow. ‘But I just told you I was absolutely fine. Twice.’

‘I know you did, dear. But we just want to…. check.’

‘You don’t believe me.’

‘Of course we do. We just want to make sure.’

‘How many times? Three? Four? Sixteen?’

‘Grace…’ Dad mumbles.

‘If you’re under stress,’ Mum says, ‘we can help you out. We’ve all been there. It’s difficult at times. And we know you’ve been worried about potential redundancies at work, and… Well, if something were to happen on that front then we’d be able to help.’

There’s something in the way they say this that makes me wonder. This isn’t them just mentioning things on the off-chance I might bear it in mind in the future. This isn’t a case of checking I’m alright. There’s more to it. Almost as if they know something is wrong.

I force a smile. ‘No. Like I say. Everything’s fine, thanks.’

This house is about as soundproof as a cardboard box. That’s something that tends to be an inconvenience, but which I’m now grateful for.

It’s always fascinating to hear what your parents have to say when they think I’m not listening. They haven’t dropped me in it, though, which is handy. They haven’t told you that I confided in them about the difficulties you’ve been having and your problems at work.

I was just looking out for you, you understand. It was only right they knew. They needed to, Grace. This way, you can prove to yourself that you can stand on your own two feet. You’ll be able to tell them — and yourself — that you don’t need them. I know you’re ready. I know this is where you finally break free.

They won’t say anything. Not directly. They assured me it would be confidential, and I persuaded them I was only looking out for your best interests. And I am. I always am. Nothing else matters but you. Us.

I can see they’re trying to push you. I know you’ve realised. You’ve finally reached the point where you don’t need them. I have faith in you, Grace. I know you’ll back away. You don’t need them. You’re so much better off without them. This is the test.

I hope I didn’t show a reaction when your dad mentioned the CCTV. Stupid, stupid. I can’t see it being a problem, though. I had my hat pulled forward that day, just in case. You can never be too careful. Besides which, I’ve got plenty on my side. As you rightly told them, I didn’t even know the address, did I? In a way, part of me hopes they still suspect. Because then they’ll keep pushing. Pushing you away.

You can see the sort of people they are now. You know you’re better off without them. I’m going to have to keep my wits about me. Keep a close eye on them. Because otherwise I’m going to have to do something about them.