We walk across the lawn, past the west-facing flowerbed, rich with geraniums, phlox, roses, campanula, jasmine. Past Caprice’s favourite tree, the crab apple that my father, Rupert, gave to her on their silver wedding anniversary. She treasured that tree. A tree is worth a million pieces of jewellery, she said when he gave it to her. After he died she always told us that this tree symbolised their life together. Her favourite book was Birds Without Wings by Louis de Bernières. She always quoted what he said, likening a couple’s love to tree roots growing together.

‘That’s how I felt about Rupert,’ she often announced after quoting Louis de Bernières’ haunting words.

Words that moved me. My insides tighten as I think about it. She loved Rupert like I love Saffron. And yet she deemed it all right to cause so much pain and trouble for me.

Hayley and I sit together on the bench beneath the weeping willow. Her eyes simmer into mine. Surely after the harsh tone I used when I asked to speak to her, she doesn’t think I’m about to make a love declaration? My stomach is heavy. I take a deep breath.

‘Hayley, Saffron is leaving BPC for a while. She wants to stay at home and look after Ben and Harry herself.’

Eyes and mouth shape into circles of surprise. She doesn’t look like Hayley Smith for a second, but a cartoon character from South Park. She soon sharpens up.

‘That’s a turn-up for the books. What’s brought that on? Is her business failing?’

Is that why Hayley and Caprice got on? Are they riddled with the same kind of bitchiness?

‘No. She just wants to enjoy some free time with her family. Alone.’ I pause. ‘So, we don’t need you, from tomorrow.’

Hayley gasps. ‘That’s not much notice.’

‘We will pay you a month’s salary. It’s just that we would like you to leave immediately.’

She looks crestfallen. Eyes brimming with tears. ‘Will you give me a reference?’

‘You’ve done a great job. Of course we will, Hayley.’

175

Hayley