‘And what about all his late nights?’ countered Claire, no longer able to restrain herself. She knew she sounded like a petulant child, but she didn’t care. Neither her mother nor Chris had truly supported her going back to her career full-time. Of course, they’d made all the right noises, said all the right things and so on, but deep down she knew what they really thought.

‘He’s just worried, that’s all. He didn’t mention any details of the case, just that it might bring back some difficult memories and he wanted me to be aware of it so I could support you if need be.’

More like give me a hard time about it.

‘How thoughtful of him,’ murmured Claire but the sarcasm was lost on her mother.

‘Is it worth arranging another appointment with… you know who?’

Oh for goodness’ sake!

‘You mean my therapist, Mum,’ replied Claire pointedly, willing her to say it.

‘Yes, yes,’ she replied hurriedly. ‘Anyway, will you make an appointment while this case is ongoing? It would put my mind at ease. And your father’s,’ she added after a fraction of a second.

Smart move bringing Dad into it.

‘It really isn’t necessary, Mum, but being as everyone is so concerned about me working on this case, I’ll make an appointment.’

‘Thank you, dear, I’ll sleep better for it.’

Well as long as you’re all right…

*

Claire heard the front door slam. Chris, Jamie and Joshua were back. She’d been seething since she’d got off the phone from her mother and not even her work could distract her.

‘Hi!’ greeted Claire as she watched them troop into the living room. ‘Joshua, can you take Jamie to wash his hands?’

‘Nooooo,’ cried Jamie immediately.

‘Come on, little man, you’re filthy!’ said Joshua. He chased Jamie up the stairs making it into a game.

‘Chris! What the hell have you been saying to my mother!’ hissed Claire once the boys were out of earshot.

‘Nothing!’ he quickly responded. He looked at her, eyes wide, innocent, and for a moment he reminded her of Jamie when he’d snuck a chocolate biscuit.

‘Really? Because she’s been on the phone to me and because of your concern is now wanting me to see Dr Kingston again. So, thanks for that.’

‘She called me to see how Lucy was getting on,’ admitted Chris. ‘I may have mentioned this case you’re working on.’ The fact that he had the decency to look somewhat ashamed mollified Claire’s anger. But then he turned. ‘Can you blame me, though? I can’t believe you’re not taking this seriously, Claire. It’s going to trigger some horrible memories and what happens if you have another breakdown? Then what?’

He was pacing, his agitation visible.

‘Shush! I don’t want the boys to hear!’