‘No, this is perfect!’ Andrea said. ‘We’re going out for a late brunch. You can join us.’

Jill glanced at Tony, wondering if he was as enthusiastic about this idea as Andrea was. But he didn’t look annoyed.

‘How did you get through the security door downstairs, Mum?’

‘Oh, someone else was coming in at the same time. A mother and her little girl next door.’ As she said it, she realised who they must be. The girl that Andrea had been worrying about. Perhaps that explained the mother’s attitude in the lift. Was she simply unfriendly to everyone?

‘Heather and Violet,’ said Andrea. She looked as though she wanted to say something else, but Jill saw her glance sideways at Tony and then smile brightly. ‘Are you happy to go straight back out again?’

‘Of course,’ said Jill. ‘But I don’t want to impose. You don’t have to have me along.’

‘Don’t be ridiculous,’ said Andrea.

The three of them walked together to a nearby café with waterfront views. It was the type of place Jill would only think to book for a special occasion, but Tony mentioned they went there every weekend for brunch. She had to admit, it was a great spot; there was a pleasant breeze off the water that took the sting out of the sun’s hot rays.

Jill noticed that Andrea had been quieter than usual on the walk. She wondered if there was something bothering her.

‘How’s school?’ she asked when they were sitting down. ‘I always found the kids got a little out of sorts in those last few weeks before the end of the year.’

Andrea nodded. ‘Oh yeah, they definitely lose their concentration. Actually, Tony’s offered to come in tomorrow and chat to my senior English class about writing for that exact reason. I needed something different to keep them occupied.’

‘Really?’ Jill glanced across at Tony. ‘You should ask Pete for some tips. He’s done a few talks to schoolkids.’

‘Pete talks to primary schoolkids,’ Tony said. ‘I’ll be right.’

‘Yes, but he could still help you out. He’s been doing it for such a long time now and he’s developed a great presentation. Why not give him a call?’

It was so brief that Jill almost missed it, but before responding, an ugly scowl crossed Tony’s face. ‘I said I’ll be fine.’

Jill kept her voice pleasant. ‘I’m sure you will,’ she agreed.