‘I don’t know.’ She held Ma’s hand carefully so as not to hurt her. The rheumatism had got worse over the last few months. ‘The more I think about it, the less sense it makes. I’m sure he wouldn’t have abandoned his children.’

‘Children?’ Ma looked up sharply. ‘You got brothers and sisters?’

‘Two half-brothers in America, my mother told me.’

‘Ah, married before, was he?’

‘No.’ Jenny shifted uncomfortably. ‘They must be illegitimate, because from what my mother told me I think they were born after me. My mother and father weren’t happy …’

‘So he had a mistress in America. Don’t look so ashamed, Jen, I’ve seen plenty of life and knows what goes on.’ Ma’s face took on a thoughtful expression. ‘If he had two families, then it don’t make sense he would leave you all.’

‘I agree, but that’s what happened. When my aunt said she wouldn’t take me in, I asked my mother if I could go to my father’s family in New York, but she said they wouldn’t want me either.’ Jenny dipped her head to hide the pain in her eyes. That still hurt so much.

‘There, there,’ Ma soothed, ‘don’t you upset yourself, duck. Things have a habit of working out right in the end. You never know, you might meet them one day, and even go to the top of that awful building. And we want and love you.’

Gratitude filled Jenny’s heart. She was loved here, and that was why she wouldn’t leave until Ma no longer needed her.

She was about to put the paper down when a notice caught her attention, making her gasp in surprise. It was an announcement of a wedding.

‘What is it?’ Ma asked.

‘My mother’s getting married again in two weeks’ time.’

‘Who to?’

‘Someone called Gordon Frasier.’ Jenny looked up excitedly. ‘Isn’t that the man who owns a chain of gentlemen’s outfitters?’

Ma nodded. ‘I’ve heard of him. Well, if it is him, then your mum’s doing very nicely for herself. Got pots of money, I’ve been told.’

‘Money has always been important to my mother. The wedding is taking place at St George’s Church, quite close to where we used to live.’

‘Why don’t you go and see her?’

‘Not yet.’ Jenny chewed her lip in concentration. ‘But I’ll go and take a peek at the wedding, from a safe distance, of course. I’ll send them a congratulations card anyway. I wonder what my new stepfather will be like.’

‘If it’s the man I’m thinking of, he’s getting on a bit.’ Ma gave Jenny a crafty wink. ‘But your mother might have time enough to work on him and make him leave her all his money, before he pops off.’

Jenny giggled. ‘You are wicked, Ma.’