Bernie’s mind was working overtime. If Kerry slung her out now she would be back home permanently; she would also be without a job. As Kerry’s dresser she got a good wage and did nothing really to earn it except iron her dresses or alter them if necessary. She was well set up nowadays and it was all thanks to Kerry and Briony. She also knew that no matter what Briony’s opinion of Evander Dorsey might be, she would not like the fact Bernie had tried to deck one over on Kerry. She wouldn’t like that at all.

‘I don’t know what you mean, Kerry. I guessed ages ago about you and Evander, saw you looking at each other. I knew what the outcome was going to be. If I was going to say anything I would have said it by now. I’m pleased for you. I’m glad you’ve found someone!’

‘Oh, pull the other one, it’s got golden bells on! I know your game, Bernie, you’ve always been the same...’

Evander walked into the kitchen. He had pulled on his trousers and vest. Bernadette looked at his muscled torso and his handsome face and found it in her heart to see just what had attracted Kerry.

‘Stop all this shouting, ladies. It’s wrong for you two to fall out over me. Now let’s have a cup of coffee and try and talk this out.’

Bernie saw that his eyes were wary and her heart lifted. He was scared of her, of what she could say, of who she could tell. Unlike Kerry, he was more than aware of what the outcome could be if she walked from this house. After all, no one would physically hurt Kerry but he would be lynched.

‘She’s a vicious cow, Evander, you don’t know her.’

Bernie was shocked at the vehemence in her sister’s voice.

‘Oh, come on, Kerry, what have I done to deserve that? I wouldn’t do anything to hurt you, I swear. I’ll keep this as close a secret as you. After all, if it got out...’

She left the rest of the sentence in mid air and Evander bit his lip. The kettle boiled and Bernie busied herself making the drinks. Kerry stood with her back against the table and her arms tight across her chest. Unlike Evander she knew what Bernie was capable of, though unlike Evander she wasn’t as aware of what would really happen should the affair become public.