Page 191 of The Secret We Keep
“And now we celebrate her life back at ours,” Paddy’s mum announces gently. “There’s plenty of food and drink for everyone.”
Pete and Christine exchange a nervous look.
I smile, nodding for them to join us if they can.
They both smile back and begin following both my parents and Jerry, who are heading towards the gate.
“Shall we go?” Paddy asks me.
I look at the grave one final time. “Yeah.”
He holds his hand out for me, and I slip my fingers into his. “So, you did lots of swearing while I was away?”
Paddy shrugs nonchalantly. “Couldn’t let the kid down, could I?”
“What is it she’s saving up for?”
Paddy’s fingers flex against mine. “A plaque for Holly’s head stone, to remember this day.”
“That’s sweet.”
“And extortionate,” he adds, his smile infectious. “The swear charge went up to five pounds a word.”
“Oh no,” I chuckle. “You must be broke.”
“Can’t put a price on love, curly fries.”
My heart warms as he holds open the gate for me. “No, I guess you can’t. Hey, I think we should do this every year.” I stop and face him.
“A memorial party?”
“Yeah.” Paddy waits for me to catch up. “Right, you already do.”
Rubbing his hands up and down my arms, he smiles at me. “You still have the serial shitter to walk everyday if you’re up for it?”
“What’s that got to do with a memorial party?” I ask, watching him closely.
“It doesn’t.” He shakes his head. “But we walk through here every day, right, so why does celebrating Holly’s life have to be limited to one day? We can take her fresh flowers every day if you like.”
Butterflies dance in my stomach. “You’re right.” I move and wrap my arms around him. It’s so wonderfully perfect, that in this moment, I know I’m going to be okay. “I love you, Paddy O’Keefe.”
He kisses my head. “I love you, curly fries.”
I take one last look over my shoulder. “Goodbye, Holly.”
Putting his arm over my shoulder, Paddy turns us, and for once, the future doesn’t feel like a question.
It feels like a promise.
Epilogue
Morgan
AuthorBiography
Morgan Brooks is a 22-year-old writer based in the charming village of Stoney Grange. Nestled among winding country lanes and cosy cottages, Morgan finds her inspiration in the quiet beauty of rural life. Recently engaged to her greatest support and lifelong love, Morgan enjoys exploring the countryside with her beloved Labrador companion and editor-in-chief, Kevin.
The Secret We Keep by Morgan Brooks
