‘Lucy’s great, Mum,’ replied Claire firmly. ‘And she’s still in the trial phase. She’s only been with us a week but so far she’s shown herself to be really good with Jamie.’

Claire wondered why she was even bothering to defend her decision.

‘Well of course, I’m sure she’s lovely. Where did you say she’s from again, love?’

I didn’t, but you’ve somehow found out and now you’re going to make it an issue.

‘She’s local, Mum; Irene recommended her, remember?’ But she knew it wasn’t enough.

‘Yes, but where exactly?’ persisted her mum.

‘Cressfield Lane.’

Damn it. Even Chris looked up at that one.

Her mum’s face was aghast.

Oh, stop being so dramatic!

‘Really, Claire? Do you think that’s a good idea? You know what that area is like… drugs and all sorts. What if she brought them to the house?’

‘Mum, she isn’t a—’

‘Chris, love, what do you think? Are you happy with this arrangement?’

Oh no you don’t, Mother!

‘Chris and I made this decision together, Mum,’ stated Claire firmly before Chris had a chance to respond. ‘He’s on board with it.’

Claire and her mother both turned to Chris, his wife silently daring him to contradict her, his mother-in-law waiting for confirmation.

‘It’s all right, Patricia,’ said Chris, his face breaking into the well-used smile he saved for his best clients. ‘We checked her out thoroughly so no need to worry.’ Claire watched her husband resume eating, hoping it was enough to close the matter.

‘I have absolutely no doubt, Chris,’ started her mother, refusing to be derailed.

Oh, for goodness’ sake!

‘But why take the chance?’ she continued, speaking to Chris. ‘I’d be more than happy to watch Jamie for you in the afternoons.’

Claire, now excluded from the conversation, seethed inside, but she knew if she wanted the best outcome, she would have to leave it to Chris to handle her.

‘We know, Patricia, and it’s lovely of you, but it’s such a lot to ask. We couldn’t possibly…’ he protested, although not strongly enough for Claire’s liking. Claire could practically see the numbers going through his head trying to weigh up how much money they’d save versus the potential pain of having his mother-in-law in the house when he got home. She could see the numbers were winning and Claire knew she had to do something quickly.

‘What about your W.I., Mum? That’s every Tuesday afternoon, and don’t forget your weekly shop and afternoon tea with Moira on Fridays. Like Chris said, we couldn’t possibly impose such a responsibility on you,’ said Claire firmly.

Not to mention Lucy will do all the cleaning and cooking as well.