‘I knew you weren’t happy we’d had a good time,’ I pressed. ‘What’s on your mind, Mum? Go on. You obviously want to say something.’

I’d never been so direct with her before, ever. I’d spent years biting my tongue, avoiding confrontation, assuming it was always me in the wrong, but it was making my temples ache that she couldn’t be as excited and happy for me as Dad and Freddie. Didn’t I deserve it? I wanted her to know that I didn’t care what she thought – it was my life. I’d finally had enough of her naysaying. She could like it or lump it.

‘Honestly, Annie?’ she said, as she blew on the steam coming off her custard. ‘Taking the Mackenzies’ money and then inviting another man to go away with you. It’s crass! I’m honestly embarrassed for you. Sorry, Patrick. But I am.’

Patrick coughed lightly, and before I could register that it meant he was going to defend me he’d already started speaking.

‘I thought it was pretty cool of her actually,’ he said, simply. ‘Making lemonade out of lemons.’

Mum gave a light hoot. ‘Well, you got a holiday out of it so it’s not surprising you’d say that.’

I couldn’t believe Mum would be so openly offensive.

‘Mum!’ I cried, right as Dad said, ‘Oh for God’s sake, Judy.’

‘No, Peter,’ Mum asserted. ‘Somebody has to say something. You come here with all your hair hacked off like you’re having a midlife crisis, making eyes at a man from that terrible drama school as if you’re trying to be fourteen again. You’re a grown woman, Annie. You can’t hide behind a new boyfriend. You’re showing yourself up.’

‘That’s not fair, Judy,’ Dad said.

‘I only want what’s best for you,’ she directed at me. ‘And what’s best for your sister.’

Freddie squealed, ‘What have I got to do with this?’

Mum looked at her. ‘She’s supposed to be an example to you, Frederica.’

‘Freddie.’

‘She’s supposed to be an example to you, Freddie.’

‘But she is,’ Freddie said in a strong voice. There was a rod of steel in her spine as she said, ‘Annie is the best example of a grown-up I know. She’s kind and silly and clever and never makes me feel like I’m alone. She’s always there for everyone she loves. And I like Patrick. You’re the only one who doesn’t.’

The table fell quiet.

‘Thanks, sis,’ I said, putting down my fork and reaching out to hold her hand.