‘I’m not bothered what folk say, as I did nothing wrong. It was Nellie. But yes, Father, I would like to do that. If that’s alright with you, Mother? I do feel so ashamed that I let Nellie do it, and I’m sorry. It is because everyone’s been so wrapped up in themselves, and I have no one except old Bert Bannister to talk to. I miss Grandmama so much.’ Jane raised her head and looked into her mother’s dark eyes. ‘I love you, Mama, and I’m so sorry for all the worry I’ve given you.’

‘Don’t worry, my dear. I was just as headstrong at your age. You always hurt the ones you love, because they are the ones who love you the most and you know you can get away with it. We all have to vent our wrath occasionally.’ Isabelle looked up at her husband; he would never know just how much he had hurt her. It was true, she’d hurt those she loved around her too, with words of anger and her actions, most of which she regretted, with hindsight. The trouble was that time was a slow healer, and it would take a long time to amend the last six month’s happenings. Jane wasn’t the only one who felt unloved.

‘What’s the matter, Isabelle? Are you still worrying about the smashed window? It’s been replaced, and folk will soon forget about it.’ Harriet looked up from her sewing and waited for a reply from her sister-in-law, who had been in a mood with her all day. ‘It wasn’t as if Jane was responsible; it was her friend.’

‘It isn’t just that, Harriet. My life’s in such a mess. I just feel like crying. I didn’t think James would ever hurt me the way he has done. I’m trying to put on a strong face and hold the family together, but it is so hard. I’ve even let him back into my bed at night, but to be honest, I don’t want him near me, because all I think of is her and what they got up to.’ Isabelle stopped pinning the clothes on her mannequin and sat down next to her sister-in-law. ‘The business takes all my time, and my children feel neglected. And in all honesty, I didn’t realize just how much my mother did for our families. Since her death everything’s gone wrong, and even Archie never comes near me.’ Isabelle wiped away a tear that was falling.