Page 30 of A Fresh Start on Crumcarey
‘Well, it never really happened,’ said Luke with a shrug. ‘They’ve had the windows wrapped up in their barn for a decade, so they’re quite keen to get them out of the way. Anyway… Iamsorry.’
‘I don’t get why you keep apologising?!’ said Maggie with a bubble of laughter.
‘It’s… it’s not exactly like your drawings,’ he said. ‘I know you had slate tiles… and the windows that are coming aren’t quite the same shape you drew in.’
‘But they’re windows instead of bits of board?’ she said.
‘Well… yes?’ said Luke.
‘Are you sure I didn’t die in the storm last night?’ she laughed. ‘Is this… am I in heaven?’
Luke chuckled as Maggie shook her head again.
‘Alright you two, I’m joining in the fun now!’ said Mr Harris, hopping down from the truck. ‘What do you think then, Mags?’
‘It’s amazing,’ said Maggie. ‘Thank you, Luke!’
‘Joint effort,’ said Luke quickly. ‘Uncle Harris has spent all day zooming around the island, collecting bits and pieces we needed to… erm… to do the job.’ He winced. He’d nearly given the next bit of the surprise away!
‘Thank you!’ said Maggie, turning to the old man and wrapping him in a hug.
‘You’re a good lass!’ he said delightedly. ‘Even if you did start the day wearing Luke’s underpants.’
‘Ohhh…’ said Luke pulling a face. ‘I think you ought to know he’s been telling that story all day!’
Maggie grinned at Mr Harris as she pulled back. ‘Me too!’ she laughed.
Luke rolled his eyes and tutted. ‘Two peas in a pod.’
Mr Harris’s entire face crumpled in delight.
‘I’ve had the best day,’ he said. ‘Had a chance to chat with people I haven’t seen for ages. Perfect excuse to nip in and natter over a coffee.’
‘Everyone’s been keen to get involved,’ said Luke. ‘I… I hope you don’t mind. They all just wanted to help you out.’
‘Of course I don’t mind,’ said Maggie, looking blown away. ‘I… can’t believe it. That all the locals would want to help someone like me.’
‘What do you mean, daft girl?’ said Mr Harris, patting her shoulder. ‘Someone like you- honestly. Don’t you realise… youareone of the locals.’
Luke watched as Maggie had to blink away tears. It was as much as he could do to stop himself from going over there and scooping her up in a great big hug… but she was already overwhelmed, and there was still more to show her!
‘Why don’t you take the lass inside and show her what’s been going on in there too?’ said Mr Harris gently. ‘I’ll stay out here and give McGregor a chance to stretch his legs. He’s been in the truck with me most of the day!’
‘Wait… there’s more?’ gasped Maggie.
Luke nodded.
‘Go with him and see!’ twinkled Mr Harris.
‘After you?’ said Luke.
‘Oh… okay…’ said Maggie.
Luke followed her as she picked her way towards the front door. They made slow progress as she kept pausing to peer up at the roof.
‘Erm… where are we heading?’ she said, stepping through the front door at last. ‘Wait… the wiring!’
‘That was Connor,’ said Luke. ‘He’s been here most of the day too. Decided to take the day off when he heard what happened last night. He’s great with electrics, so he’s undone all the—’
