There was a notable pause before Owen answered. ‘How everything always is with Dominic,’ he said eventually. ‘He still treats me like I’m some junior employee. Really pisses me off at times. I want to get more involved with some of the other aspects of the business, but he keeps knocking me back. I don’t think he can bring himself to even say what I want to do is a good idea, let alone agree to it going ahead. I’ve got a great idea for this place.’

‘Like what?’

Owen lit his cigarette as they wandered around the formal gardens. ‘We’ve got the water sports pretty much sewn up. We’ve loads of things going on there but I think we’re missing a trick with the outward-bound things. Hiking and Nordic walking are both OK, but what about survival weekends? You know, proper boy-scout stuff for adults as well as kids. Spend a night out under the stars, learn how to start a fire, collect water and all that.’

‘Sounds good to me,’ said Harry. ‘But Dominic’s not interested, I take it?’

‘Not in the slightest. If it was his idea, it would be a different story, of course.’ Owen scrunched his nose up and sniffed again.

‘You want me to speak to him?’ offered Harry.

‘Would you? He’s more likely to listen to you, and if you think it’s a good idea then he can’t really say no.’

‘He probably could, but I’ll give it a try. What does Mum think to it?’

Owen drew hard on his cigarette. ‘She’s not sure. Said she’d have to think about it, look at insurances, et cetera. Basically, she just agrees with Dominic.’

‘If I get a chance, I’ll speak to him.’

‘Thanks. I appreciate it.’

‘It will cost you, though,’ said Harry, stopping and turning to face his brother.

‘What’s that?’

‘Stop putting that shit up your nose and I’ll back you one hundred per cent.’

Owen’s eyes widened and he took a step to the side, the back of his hand automatically going to his nose. ‘What? I …’

‘Don’t even try to deny it. I’m not stupid. I saw the little white packet in your baccy. And you’ve never in your life suffered from hay fever. The sniffles are from the coke.’ He shook his head. ‘You’re such a fucking idiot at times.’

‘It’s not what you think,’ said Owen, his eyes darting around. ‘It’s just now and again.’

‘What, just like the alcohol was now and again?’

‘Hey! That’s unfair.’ Owen looked embarrassed. ‘Seriously, it’s not really any of your business anyway. You don’t even live here any more and you’re only back because of Mum, so don’t pretend you care about my well-being or anything.’