‘He’s my son, Lena, and I love him – and it’s hard to love that fecker at times, believe me – but you, Lena, are the only person he will listen to. You could have reined him in years ago if you had used your fecking loaf. You need to get your head out of your arse, and start looking out for those boys of yours; they are going to need you in the next few years, and you had better understand that, lady. He is pushing everybody around him away, and I know my Daniel – that means he will keep pushing with all he’s got. So, for once in your life, take a fecking interest, will you, before your sons are wiped out before your own eyes. Because you know as well as I do what Daniel is capable of.’ Theresa took another deep drag on her cigarette before saying sadly, ‘You had a good run, Lena. You kept out of it, but now it’s time to start taking an interest in what’s going on around you.’

Lena was white-faced, absolutely distraught at the turn of events, unable to believe that her mother-in-law could be capable of such treachery, not just towards her, but towards her own son. ‘I will not be spoken to like this, Theresa. I think it’s best if I leave now before we all say things we might regret.’

As Lena stood up and collected her belongings, Theresa said loudly, and with obvious sarcasm, ‘You can’t run away for ever, Lena – even you must know that much, darling. Eventually you are going to have to accept the truth of your situation. You live the Life, just like we all do. You know I’m telling the truth. Use your intelligence, girl! Use your influence to rein Daniel in – if not for his sake, then for his sons. Your sons.’

Ria watched as Lena battled the urge to swipe her mother-in-law across the face. It was a real eye-opener for Ria to see Lena so angry and strong. Gone now was her usual quiet demeanour; she had pulled herself upright, her fist was clenched and she looked more than capable of fighting her own corner. Theresa had hit a nerve all right – that much was plain to see – but Ria felt it was a good thing. Lena did need to get her head out of her arse, and start living in the real world with everyone else. She had swerved the Life for too long, and it was time she admitted that the money she spent came at a price, especially for women like them, who lived at the very top of the food chain.

Lena slammed the door behind her, and Theresa raised her arms in annoyance. ‘I could cheerfully swing for her at times, Ria! She wanders through life like Dilly fecking Daydream and, you know something? Deep down, she’s stronger than any of us.’