‘Can we talk? Miles is going to take the children to school, so now would be good.’

My stomach curdles. This is it. She is going to fire me.

I take a deep breath, stretch my mouth into a tense smile, and reply, ‘Yes. Of course.’

‘Let’s go and sit in the drawing room,’ she suggests, as she stands up, smoothie in hand.

We settle ourselves in antique walnut chairs either side of the white marble fireplace. In this room, which drips with antiques: walnut coffee tables, a crystal chandelier, Indian rugs. A photograph of a young Saffron on the mantelpiece. Thick quirky glasses, even then.

She takes a sip of her smoothie. ‘I just wanted you to know how much I appreciate your work here. I’m sorry there has been a misunderstanding. I trust you. I trust Miles. So let’s move forwards and forget this. I hope you’ll continue to be happy with our family.’

I look into her ice blue eyes. ‘Thank you, Saffron.’

At this moment I’m not sure who I love most. Miles or Saffron.

77

Saffron

It’s true that you are a real prize bitch, Caprice. First making out that I’m unfaithful, then that Miles is. There is no limit to how low you will stoop to destroy our relationship. Now there is no limit to how much I hate you.

78

Caprice

I’m sitting in my bedroom, when there is a knock on the door.

‘Come in.’

Miles’ head appears around the door. ‘Hey, Mother, do you have time for a chat?’

I smile my best smile. The one Rupert always loved. When I smiled like that he would pull me towards him and hug me. My stomach lurches as I remember his touch.

‘All the time in the world for you,’ I say. ‘You know that. Always have. Always will.’

He steps inside. Casual today. Jeans. White T-shirt. Such a good-looking man. So talented. He could have done anything he wanted. He is musical too. He can sing. Play the guitar. I always imagined him as a lead singer in a band. With his large eyes and well-balanced face he has a look of Simon Le Bon about him. How the fans would have swooned. But he’s buried in academia now.

He sits in my floral armchair and folds his arms.

‘I’m fed up with you trying to come between me and Saffron.’ His words pierce into me.

‘Whatever do you mean?’ I ask, wounded. ‘I do everything I can to help this family.’

‘You told her I love Julie.’ He pauses. ‘You told Hayley I have feelings for her. You insinuate that Saffron is unfaithful.’ Another pause, longer this time. Angry eyes stabbing into mine. ‘What are you trying to do?’

‘Being honest. Saying what I think. Honesty is what makes a family. There are three important rules about family life. Communication, communication and communication. Honesty is intrinsic to that.’