Mike was miles away, worrying over Zara. He waved his hand, gesturing it was okay. ‘No, of course, Son. You go. I’m gonna make me way back home. I’ll need to air and dust the place. It’s been so long, I may need to get the decorators in.’

Gloria suddenly piped up, ‘No, you won’t need to lift a finger. We’ve kept it shipshape and Bristol fashion, and Staffie’s been looking after the pool.’

Once Ricky and Arthur had left, Mike looked at his mother. ‘I can’t believe that skank fell asleep on the sofa next to me. I mean, what the fuck did that look like, and why the hell didn’t Eric take her home? It’s really pissing me off.’

Gloria sighed. ‘Stop fretting, Mike. Zara will be back. She’s not stupid. She knows you weren’t up to no good.’

With a heavy heart, Mike shook his head. ‘No, Mum. Five years ago, it would’ve been water off a duck’s back. She would’ve fronted me there and then and fucked the tart off, but she’s so affected. I can tell it’ll only take one little upset and she’ll crumble.’

‘Leave her be, for a while. Give her time. She’ll come back. And just to let you know, we may be the fairer sex, but we can handle far more than you think. Inside her slim frame is a fighting spirit.’

Before Mike could continue the conversation, his phone rang. Instantly, he answered it. ‘Zara, where the fuck are you? What’s the matter?’ His voice aired a pitch of desperation.

‘Mike, listen to me. I need to be alone. I’ve some business to see to and I just need time.’

‘No, Zara, please. What you saw, well . . . it wasn’t—’

‘Mike,’ Zara instantly interrupted, ‘I really don’t care. I’ve more pressing issues. Please don’t worry about me. I’m fine. But I just can’t be around you right now!’ With that, she cut the connection, leaving Mike with his mouth wide open in amazement.

‘What’d she say?’ asked Gloria, anxiously awaiting the details.

‘She doesn’t want me right now . . . I guess, I fucked up.’

‘Mikey, you’ve both been through so much and it’s not easy, and even harder for her. Maybe she needs to find herself before she takes back up with you again. Leave her alone for a while.’

***