Page 109 of The Secret We Keep
“Your job’s waiting for you when you’re ready to come back.”
I breathe out a sigh of relief, eyes closing. “Jesus, that’s great news.” My free hand runs through my hair.
He chuckles. “I thought so too.”
Opening my eyes, I look back at the house, wanting to go and tell somebody. “And the reduced hours?”
“All agreed. I’ll fire you over an email with everything outlined. When you’re ready, come in and see me, or drop me a message and we can go for a drink, go through everything.”
“I will.”
“Alright then, mate. Take it easy.”
Hanging up, I slip my phone in my pocket before rubbing my face with both hands, a huge weight lifting off my shoulders, making me feel light.
Morgan was right, today’s a good day.
Rather than disturb him, a renewed sense of purpose has me spinning on my heels, deciding to handle work for Pops on my own.
Mr Danford’s car is ready for him to collect, and I can check what’s booked in for tomorrow. My old man has to be the least organised individual known to walk the earth. If it wasn’t for Mum helping him out, I doubt this place would have stayed open for as long as it has.
I round the bend just through the gate to find my mother and Evie standing by a silver Honda. But that’s not why my feet grind to a halt. Like a chump, I can’t hide the smile that plasters on my face when I see Morgan, standing with her arms folded across her middle.
When I get closer, I see the upside down look on her face. Last time I sawthatlook was the first day I was back here. It’s less in tune with how she has appeared in recent weeks. Making my steps slow, I can tell by her tight lips and the way she looks so uncomfortable that something is wrong. She’s agitated and not glowing with the sense of peace and purpose I’ve come to enjoy seeing on her.
That glow that always makes my chest feel tight.
Speaking of my chest, the thing keeping me upright pounds against my ribs when she sees me. Her eyes light up the way they always do, but her face tells a different story.
“Curly fries?” I make my way closer to her, looking between Mum and Evie.
She backs up, holding her body tight.
Mum steps in front of me, stopping me from pulling Morgan into my arms. “Look who we found walking on her own.” Her eyes widen as she checks Morgan over her shoulder.
“Is she alright?” I ask quietly, taking the opportunity when Evie steps closer to show Morgan something.
Mum nods. “Yes, I think so, love. But she doesn’t seem herself.”
My eyes are fixed on Morgan.
“Paddy?” Mum’s voice is hushed.
I look down at her against my will.
Eyes filled with concern beam up at me. “What are you going to do?”
All I can do is shrug. Honestly, I’ve exhausted myself trying to work out what the right thing to do is. And as much as I try to ignore the niggling sensation in my gut telling me to domore,I sense this is going to be a make-or-break situation.
It’s not going to be like ripping a plaster off. This situation needs time. Care. Attention.
Love.
Mum squeezes my arm with a slight sigh. “I’ll be up at the house if you need me.”
I place a kiss on her cheek. “Thanks.”
Mum turns to Morgan with her arms held open. “Morgan, I’ll see you after the game?”
