Nina went back to the sofa and sifted through their new make-up. For a few minutes they sat in silence, one dabbing on foundation, the other plucking her eyebrows. Something Nina’s father had said before she left for London was on her mind. Her mother had referred to Tess’s departure from Kilmitten. ‘There’s not a lot keeping her here,’ she’d said.

‘Shame her father never got involved in her life,’ Nina’s dad had replied.

‘Indeed,’ said her mother, her voice implying that the conversation shouldn’t go any further.

It wasn’t so much her dad’s words that had resonated with Nina as his tone. That and the way her mam had shut down the discussion. You know, she’d thought. You know who he is. Later, she’d re-evaluated what she’d heard and concluded she was reading too much into it. She thought about saying something to Tess, but what? Tess’s interest in her father had grown over the years. This might send her into a frenzy, and Nina couldn’t be sure her parents did know the truth. No, she’d remain quiet for now and do some more digging when she got home.

‘I’ve been meaning to ask you,’ said Tess. ‘What’s up with yourself and Tom?’

‘What do you mean?’

‘Now, Nina, don’t go acting all dumb on me. Are you ever going to get moving?’

Nina was surprised to feel warmth in her cheeks. She hoped it wasn’t obvious. Her hope was in vain.

‘Woooh,’ said Tess, like a ten-year-old in the playground. ‘Look at the face on you.’

Nina smiled.

Tess clapped her fingertips. ‘You must know how much he likes you. He’s been mooning after you since we were in primary school. And Fergal and myself have had to spend the summer watching the two of you playacting. When are you going to get it together?’

‘I don’t know,’ said Nina, passing an eyeshadow from one hand to the other. ‘Maybe we’ve known each other for too long. Maybe we’re better off as friends.’

‘Friends, my eye. Why can’t you admit you like the guy?’

‘What’s this? An interrogation?’

‘Nope. I’m taking a kindly interest, that’s all. I mean, by any standards, he’s a good-looking fellow. By Kilmitten standards, he’s an absolute ride.’

‘You sound like you fancy him yourself.’

‘I’d be wasting my time. Anyway, I didn’t come to London to go out with lads from home.’

‘Okay,’ said Nina. ‘Yes, I do like him.’ How could a straight, sane woman not like Tom? He was intelligent and entertaining. He was attractive. You could warm your hands on his smile. And yet …

‘And?’ asked Tess.

‘And, like I said, I’m not sure.’