Page 91 of The Side Road
Oliver parkedthe Citroën outside Mia’s house. He knew exactly what he was going to say. There was only one way to approach the situation and that was to rip off the band-aid.
On the porch, Snood greeted him like a long-lost friend. The adoration from the dog was a pleasant, momentarydistraction that boosted Oliver’s mood. The unwavering love of a dog, if only life were that simple.
In the kitchen, Mia stared at him. ‘Oliver, what’s wrong?’ she asked.
‘Something has come up. I need to talk to you.’
Visibly, she stiffened. ‘Have you changed your mind? Because, if you have, I…I understand. I mean—’ She turned away from him and started wiping a bowl that was on the drying rack.
Knowing the bowl was dry, he took it off her and placed it on the bench. ‘Come and sit down.’
They sat on the window seat. In this soft light, he saw her lips quiver. He noticed her hands were trembling. In matters of the heart, she was unexpectedly fragile. This was a revelation. He had seen her stand up to rude drivers. Hold her ground with feisty knitters and step between Miles and her front door. She protected the people she loved, but she had no expectations the support would be returned.
As efficiently as he could, Oliver explained the circumstances of Cindy’s arrival.
When her expression shifted from surprise to concern, he said, ‘I’m not the father. But I’m sitting in on her online prenatal appointment next week.’
‘Why?’
‘Because she doesn’t have anyone else. Apparently, someone needs to take notes. She also doesn’t have any money.’
‘Neither do you. How pregnant is she?’
‘Five months.’
‘And she’s staying with you.’
‘Yes…but?—’
‘How long is she staying?’
He shrugged. ‘I’m not sure.’
‘Can I ask…I know this is none of my business, but I’m going to ask, and you don’t have to answer. I won’t mind. You can tell me it’s none of my business. But have you slept with her in the past?’
‘Yes. A few years ago.’
‘So, just to be clear, you have had sex with this woman. But you’re not the father.’
‘I’m not the father.’
‘Then why don’t you tell her to leave?’
‘Because she has nowhere else to go. She’s scared. A few days and she’ll be gone.’
‘But you said her doctor’s appointment was next week.’
‘I don’t want this to be your concern.’
‘Well, it sort of is. Because of you.’ She patted him on the hand. ‘But it’s fine. Of course it’s fine. She could even stay here, if you like. In fact, that makes more sense. I have another bedroom. If she stays at your place, where will Mary sleep?’
‘I can’t ask you to do that. And I’ve already offered her a hotel. A house is more homely.’
‘Of course.’
29
COMPETITION
