This is definitely not the quickest route from Barrow to Kendal. I glance across at Nick, frowning in puzzlement. He doesn’t even look at me, his eyes fixed on the road ahead. But he’s aware I’m awake, and clearly looking for some sort of explanation for this detour. “I thought you’d be better at mine for a few days at least. Maybe later, when you’ve got the lightweight plaster on, you’ll be able to manage. Meanwhile, you need someone to look after you and I guess that’s me. Any objections?” Well, that explains the detour. Now he does look at me, and I see the steely glint of the Dom in his eyes. He expects me to obey him, even though we’re not—what?—together anymore. And for my part I appreciate now that old habits die hard, and maybe not so old ones as well. I nod my acquiescence. Satisfied, Nick returns his attention to driving. My last thought before I drift back to sleep is that at least I can have a bath now. Nick won’t let me slip. I waken again when the engine dies.
