You seem to have a problem with me," he says in typical Griggs fashion.

I can tell he regrets saying it when he is treated to one of Hannah's long cold gazes.

"I think it will be a while before I forgive the trip to Sydney," she says flatly.

"Fair enough. I think it will be a while before I forgive you for what you put her through over the past six weeks."

I watch them both and for the first time it occurs to me that I'm no longer flying solo and that I have no intention of pretending that I am. I have an aunt and I have a Griggs and this is what it's like to have connections with people.

"Do you know what?" I ask both of them. "If you don't build a bridge and get over it, I'll never forgive either of you.

Author: Melina Marchetta