“It’s incredibly rude to listen to other people’s financial conversations,” she said.

“You’re my mother,” I said.

“If you and Dad are in trouble, tell me.”

“We’re perfectly fine,” Helen said.

She adjusted her coat collar and wouldn’t meet my eyes.

“In fact,” Helen said, her voice turning falsely bright, “Ranata has been wonderful.

She’s bringing us some specialty groceries tomorrow.

She even offered to take me on a luxury spa weekend to relax.”