‘Tradition forced on us by cruel husbands and bullies, unwise men – and unwise women,’ said Lena. ‘My mother couldn’t see that the marks on me weren’t a sign of my husband’s love – but a sign of his resentment.’

The women looked at one another, shocked that they had all spoken so unguardedly.

Sorina too spoke up. ‘It was the cuckoo that said “Yes” at the betrothal supper, not Edith. I don’t ever want to get married, men are revolting. They make you dirty and you can’t get clean again.’

‘Where did you get that nonsense from?’ asked her mother.

Vanda’s face had lost its colour. She stared at Sorina.

‘Well?’ said Una sharply.

‘My grandfather,’ said Sorina.

Vanda sat down slowly.

Una gave her daughter a slap. ‘You will show respect for your elders and betters. Do you hear me? Or do you want another one?’

Edith got up and stood between Una and her daughter.

‘Out of my way, Edith,’ said Una, raising her hand. Edith caught her arm and moved her towards the door. ‘I’m not leaving – let go of my arm.’ Edith opened the door onto the verandah, and a chill filled the room. Una pulled her arm free. ‘There,’ she said and started to busy herself.

‘You’ve been asked to leave, Una,’ said Vanda.

‘Are you taking her side?’ said her sister.

Vanda’s voice was weary. ‘Just go home – you’re not wanted.’

Una picked up her basket. ‘Come, Sorina, we’re leaving.’

Sorina moved to her aunt’s side. Una, realising she had no support, went red. ‘I’ll tell our father about this. And what you all said.’ She turned to Edith. ‘I hate to think how he’ll punish you, but he will punish you.’ She opened the door and stepped out onto the verandah.

It was too much for Vanda. ‘That’s what women like you do,’ she called after her. ‘You help men like our father. You say men will be men – what does that mean for women? Will women be women? No, because when we are, we’re too loud. We’re told to be silent.’

‘I don’t know what you’re talking about,’ said Una. ‘I’m sorry about Misha but…’

‘Don’t you dare say another word,’ said Vanda.

‘All I’m saying is that since the avalanche, sister, you haven’t been yourself. Perhaps you, like our father, have been bewitched by this silent…’

‘No,’ said Vanda. ‘That’s not what tragedy does to you. I haven’t been bewitched. I’ve been heard.’

Edith closed the door on Una.

‘I will tell him, I will,’ shouted Una.