"When did Dad get to know you would be coming home mum?" I asked without thinking.

"He didn't." She replied and turned to stare at the butler who in turn just stood there like a log of wood.

"You can leave." I said to the man.

It was clear as day. Someone told Dad Mum was coming home and he decided to stay away.

As the butler was leaving, I stole glances at Mum and I caught a sad look across her face but just for a second. She adjusted herself in her chair and looked me straight in the eye.

"Now tell me, what is up with you? How...