The spoon dropped with a clatter. Oh, dear, that wouldn’t do at all! He was from a wealthy family, and even though she had once been in the same situation, she was now penniless. It was ridiculous, but these things still mattered to society. She ought to know, because she’d been brought up with these prejudices. If she became too friendly with him, his family would believe she was trying to edge her way back up, through him. She gave a snort of disgust, imagining what his father would have to say about that! No, she must forget the whole thing. Anyway, he was probably only helping because he felt sorry for her, and she didn’t want or need anyone’s pity. Things were difficult at the moment, but it wouldn’t always be like this. The fact that Ma was so much better was a hopeful sign.

She turned the gas down to simmer the soup, shaking her head in disbelief. How stupid to have her first crush on one of the Stannard family.

26

That evening Matt arrived home still highly amused by the argument he’d had with Jenny about the extra shopping he’d bought for her and Ma. Where had that timid frightened under housemaid gone? The girl who had turned on him with such fire was so different. Now eighteen, she had grown in stature and confidence. He doubted if she was afraid of anyone or anything now. The last two years must have been unbelievably hard for her, but, instead of becoming cowed by the experience, she had come through it magnificently. He liked this new, mature girl. Although too thin, she was absolutely beautiful.

He grinned to himself as he remembered the old woman winking saucily at him. It wasn’t any surprise that Jenny loved her so much, because even in sickness there was still a hint of her feisty nature. He’d understood the plea in those sharp eyes – you look after my girl, lad, it had said. When Ma died, and she knew she was going to soon, he would make sure Jenny was all right. That should cause a fight or two, but when that day came he was well aware that she was going to be distraught. She would have the support of her friends, of course, but he would also be there, whether she wanted him to be or not!

John walked in just in time for dinner. ‘I’ve got some news.’

‘Tell us before we sit down to eat,’ his mother suggested.

‘Greaves is in trouble.’ John sat down and stretched out his long legs. ‘He’s a gambler.’

‘The stock market?’ Luke sat forward, interested.