Jane sniffed, trying not to cry. She realised that deep down, she had been worrying that one of her parents was ill, before a different explanation for Pam’s behaviour had become apparent.

‘Are you all right?’ She could hear the concern in her mother’s voice.

‘I’ve had a distressing day, Mum, it’s all been a bit much and I’m really tired. I just feel so bad about not turning up again.’ She blew her nose loudly.

‘Don’t get so upset, sweetheart, your father and I understand how important your work is to you and we’re very proud of all you’ve achieved.’

‘Thank you, Mum, that means a lot to me.’ She wiped her eyes with a tissue.

‘We’re always here for you, Jane. You know we both love you very much.’

‘I love you too, Mum.’

‘Well, I’ve always been a good listener, and I want you to tell me what’s upsetting you.’

She knew she couldn’t say anything about Tony, but could still be truthful.

‘Oh, Mum, it’s just that I’ve been dealing with twin girls whose mother was murdered by their abusive father and they were put into a convent. One of them is deaf and mute, and I just thought how fortunate I am, and always have been, to have you both and I just feel so bad about not having your chicken and mushroom sauce.’

‘Well, I can cook that any time for you. Pam wanted to know if the cap she dropped off was the right one?’

Jane took a deep breath. ‘Yes, Mum, the cap was exactly what I wanted. Is Pam there so I can thank her?’

‘No, Tony picked her and Nathan up a little while ago. I’d hoped they’d stay for a bit longer. Your father and me love being with Nathan.’

‘I haven’t seen Tony for a while – how is he?’ she asked, hating how deceitful she sounded.

‘Funny you should ask, but he looked tired and was very withdrawn, which is unusual for him. I hope he’s not coming down with the flu. I wouldn’t want him to pass it on to Nathan.’

‘He’s probably had a hard few days at work and is feeling exhausted . . . like me.’

‘I know Tony works hard to provide for Pam and Nathan. Mind you, sometimes I feel she’s a bit harsh with him.’

‘Goodnight, Mum, thanks for your support.’

Jane put the receiver down and wondered if Tony was currently confessing to Pam. The thought that he might reveal her involvement worried her deeply.

Chapter Twenty-Six

CHAPTER TWENTY-SIX

It was 11 p.m. and Jane hadn’t been asleep long when she heard the doorbell ring. She turned on the bedside light and got up to see who it was repeatedly pressing the bell.

‘Hang on, I’m coming!’ she shouted as she walked up the hallway.