Page 105 of Murder in the Family

It was the same after the murder – she just battened down the hatches, shut the world out. Even to the extent of not acting quickly enough to get her children counselling, even though it was obvious to anyone with eyes in their head that they were struggling. These days all three would probably have been diagnosed with some form of PTSD.

LAILA FURNESS – off

I wasn’t aware any of the kids had had therapy.

SHIRLEY BOOKER

All of them, in fact. But like I said, Caroline kept that sort of thing very private. I seem to remember there was an incident at the girls’ school – some sort of damage, I don’t think I ever knew what, exactly. I do know Caroline had to pull a lot of strings to keep it out of the press. I can’t remember which of the girls was involved, but I’m pretty sure it was that incident which forced Caroline’s hand on the therapy issue: it was made clear to her that she no longer had a choice.

LAILA FURNESS – off

By whom? The police?

SHIRLEY BOOKER

The school, as a condition of further attendance.

LAILA FURNESS – off

I see.

There’s a pause; if Laila was hoping Booker might say more, she’s disappointed.

LAILA FURNESS – off

So, going back to the summer before the murder, what effect did the antipathy of the children towards Luke have on the domestic dynamic?

SHIRLEY BOOKER

Well, it can hardly have helped. I know Luke did offer to try talking to Maura about her behaviour, but Caroline thought it would only make matters worse. Maura disliked him so much she’d have positivelyenjoyedsticking two fingers up at him.

LAILA FURNESS – off

And the other children? How were things on that score?

SHIRLEY BOOKER

According to Caroline, Luke was absolutely convinced it was only a matter of time before all three of them came round. Apparently he was always like that – you know, the ‘something will turn up’ type. Very easy-going.

The girls took advantage of that, of course. Treated him like their personal chauffeur. But if it kept the peace I suspect that was all Caroline cared about.

LAILA FURNESS – off

That summer – there have been suggestions she might have started an affair.

SHIRLEY BOOKER

Oh yes, she definitely had. There’s no question about that.

LAILA FURNESS – off

(evidently surprised)

She told you about it?

SHIRLEY BOOKER

Notwhoit was, no, but that she was seeing someone, yes, absolutely.