‘Well, as you haven’t been there, you don’t know we have something excited planned for tomorrow night.’

‘You have?’ Hannah wasn’t interested, but she could see Mrs W was waiting for her to ask what.

‘A camping night. We’re going to cook hot dogs and burgers on the barbecue, then you kids can sleep out under the stars.’

‘I don’t know.’ There was no way she wanted to go. ‘My mum—’

‘Your mother already knows and said yes. I saw her in the post office yesterday.’

No!

As Hannah’s mouth flapped, Jane Lawrence came back into the house, joining them in the hallway. ‘This is exciting, isn’t it, Hannah? And so kind of Eileen to do this for you kids.’

When Hannah didn’t react to that, and was at a complete loss as to how she was going to get out of going, her mum gave her a nudge.

‘Well, say thank you, Hannah.’

‘Thank you, Mrs W.’

She wanted to cry as she listened to the pair of them make small talk, her mother so grateful for Mrs W’s kindness.

‘I don’t want to go,’ she said, as soon as the door shut.

‘Why on earth not, Hannah?’

‘I’m not feeling well.’

‘Since when? You look fine to me.’

‘I have a headache and a sore throat.’

‘Really?’ Her mother’s look was sceptical. ‘And when did that come on?’

‘Earlier today.’

‘Well, I’m sure you’ll be fine by tomorrow night. Your stepfather has made arrangements for us to go away for the night, so I’m afraid you’re going to have to go.’

‘What?’

‘We booked the hotel last night.’ Jane sighed. ‘Honestly, Hannah. Mrs Wickham is doing something nice for you kids and you should perhaps be a little more grateful.’

‘Please don’t make me go.’

‘Don’t be silly. I’m not going to let you ruin our one night away.’ Jane gave her one of her ‘mother knows best’ looks. ‘Besides, you’ve been cooped up in this house the last few days. It will do you good to get out and see your friends again.’

There was no more arguing with her, but it didn’t stop one last protest the following day.

Not that it helped. If anything, it made her mother even more determined that Hannah would attend the sleepover.

‘Honestly, what’s got into you? You’ve been moping about, not wanting to see anyone. Go and enjoy yourself for goodness’ sake.’

‘But I don’t want to go.’

‘Sometimes in life you have to suck these things up and get on with it. I’m sure you’ll have fun once you’re there with the others. Now go get your things together and I’ll find your sleeping bag.’

When Hannah pouted, not moving, her mother scolded her.