The car was the first thing that actually had her a bit alarmed. One Tuesday morning, Claire found Colin in the driveway with the bonnet raised on her blue hatchback. He jumped when she opened the front door, then laughed at himself for jumping. “Washer fluid,” he said, holding up the bottle like proof. “You were low. I also checked the other parts; everything running smoothly.”
Claire thanked him, though she could not remember asking him to check it. Later, when she drove to the pharmacy, the controls did seem smoother and quicker. Not dramatic. Just different enough for her reflexes to notice even before her mind registered.
She had already booked a garage appointment. That evening, Colin said he cancelled it. “They’ll charge you for nothing,” he said. “I checked it all myself.” He sounded defensive when she questioned him, so she let it drop.