TWENTY-THREE
The journey across the country was fraught with tension, both girls in the back seat restless and bored. He’d rigged up the DVD players, but before long, even the promise of five hours of Disney proved inadequate. So, many stops were called for and despite setting off at nine in the morning, they managed to drive into the village of Worlingham at around three in the afternoon. Stressed and frayed at the edges, Steve was forced to make a frantic explanation to Samantha’s mother as she stood rigid and uncompromising.
“Sam did tell you, didn’t she? I have to get going, Maureen. And I’m sorry.”
Her face spoke volumes; the well-known scowl she often reserved for occasions such as this.
The girls lapped around her legs, Maureen twisted her mouth, and her eyes darkened. “How long
