‘His reality, not mine. Sure, we used to get a clip round the ear if we were cheeky or did something wrong, and there’s nothing wrong with a bit of tough love, but Harry was so belligerent, he used to make it more difficult for himself. Once when we were getting a telling-off from the old man, we were all lined up while he was bollocking us and then he cuffed the three of us. Me and Owen weren’t stupid and kept our heads down, but Harry, he had to be defiant, and I could see out of the corner of my eye, he kept his head up. It was like a challenge to Dad. Anyway, he earned himself an extra cuff on both sides of the head for that.’

‘Your dad sounds like a bully.’

‘He was harsh, but he loved us.’ Dominic rolled over and straddled Elizabeth. ‘Anyway, no more talk of my dad or my brothers; it’s not exactly a turn-on.’ His gaze raked her body. ‘You, on the other hand …’

Chapter Thirty-Three

Conmere, Wednesday, 15 May, 3.00 p.m.

Steph had finished work for the day and, despite her text messages with Harry the day before, she hadn’t heard from him about meeting up that evening. She found herself deeply disappointed and checking her phone far more often than necessary to see if he’d been in contact. She hoped he wasn’t having second thoughts about talking to her.

She looked at her watch; maybe he’d call later when his own working day was finished. She needed something to distract herself from thinking about him. Outside, the sun had broken free from the clouds, bathing the trees in a deep golden light which would make for some great photos.

Without giving it too much consideration, Steph picked up her camera and, slipping it into her rucksack, decided to head out for a walk. She could do with some fresh air to clear her head and taking photos would be a good way to keep her mind from dwelling on Harry. She felt caged inside the house, and the thought of being outside and capturing the images was never more appealing.