‘That must be it,’ she said.
Zoe was watching the road ahead, but she was suddenly aware of Billie’s searching gaze on her from the passenger seat.
‘You’re all right, aren’t you? You and Dad?’
‘I think so.’
‘You don’t seem it.’
‘I don’t suppose everything will always be plain sailing, and we’re still getting used to living together, aren’t we?’
‘Don’t talk to me like I’m a kid.’
Zoe flushed. ‘I’m sorry. I didn’t realise I was. What I meant to say was, I hope we’re all right, but there are never any guarantees. Things will come to try us.’
‘Like Virginia?’
Zoe glanced sharply at her now. ‘I don’t suppose it can have escaped your notice that I’m not her biggest fan. But I do understand that your dad needs her help.’
‘Yeah, but I think he’s rubbing it in your face. I can see it’s bothering you, having her around.’
‘I’m not sure he can.’
‘He’s an idiot.’
Zoe raised her eyebrows. It wasn’t often she heard Billie laugh, even less often that she’d hear Billie criticise her dad. She wondered if it was a joke, but it didn’t sound like one.
‘A bit like you,’ she added.
At this, Zoe laughed. She hadn’t felt much like laughing today, but Billie’s frank appraisal had uncorked her humour in the most unexpected way. ‘Thanks.’
‘It’s why you’re well suited. You’d better not split up.’
‘I don’t want that either.’
‘Could have fooled me.’
‘What do you mean?’
‘You’re proper snappy at the moment. Dad’s noticed it too.’
‘He said so?’
‘No, but I know he has. Then again, he’s not exactly helping.’
‘We’ve both got a lot on our minds, that’s all. I don’t mean to snap – I’m sorry.’
‘You keep getting dizzy.’
‘Not all the time?—’
‘More than once. Corrine said you fainted at their place.’
‘I wouldn’t say fainted exactly, but I…well, I lost my balance.’
‘Not a kid…’
‘OK, sorry.’ Zoe drew in a breath. And then, in the most surprising way and in the most surprising company, it was out. ‘I’ve been having dizzy spells, hot flushes, mood swings, fuzzy brain…stuff that goes with the beginning of the menopause.’
