Page 72 of The Secret We Keep
I can’t help but smile. “The next one that goes through Stoney Grange isn’t for forty-five minutes,” I tell her knowingly, having already missed it yesterday. Evie was right, busses suck.
Holly weighs up our options like we have some. “Why don’t we grab a coffee while we wait? Come on,” she gives me a little tug, pulling me in closer, “I want to hear all about He-man.”
Having made it home later than planned, I say goodbye to Holly and head back to my place. A small part of me was secretly hoping to see Paddy’s car parked up again. But it isn’t. What I find this late in the afternoon, however, is Siobhan walking Kevin.
“Mrs O’Keefe?”
She spins to face me. “What have I told you about calling me Mrs O’Keefe?”
My cheeks blush apologetically before I make my way over. I instinctively bend down and stroke Kevin. “I could have walked him for you today.”
“Oh, I know, dear, but truth be told, I’m out here looking for Paddy.”
I stand up straight. “Paddy?”
Siobhan lets loose a depleted sigh. “He was supposed to be back today, but he hasn’t showed.”
This is news to me. “We were texting yesterday. He didn’t reply. Do you think he’s okay?”
My words have her breath catching. “I’m sure he’s fine. Perhaps he’s just with his friends back in the city. I’m probably being paranoid.”
“Does he usually call?”
She shakes her head. “No, but I thought maybe he would. Look, if you hear from him, will you tell him I’m asking for him?”
“Why would I talk to him before you do?”
The smile that dons her face is sweet and also… sad. “Because I can tell how much you mean to him, dear.”
I laugh, but I immediately stop when I see she’s being serious. “Do you want me to try and call himfor you?”
I’m not sure if my offer to help is out of place, but a shocked choking noise escapes her like she’s holding back a sob. “Would you mind?”
Pulling out my phone from my bag, I find Paddy’s number. It rings, but he doesn’t answer. The feeling inside me makes me feel sick.
Me and Siobhan swap a worried glance. “I’ll message him.” Considering he never replied to me last night, I can’t see why he would now.
Paddy, I’m with your mum. She’s worried about you. Are you alright?
Seconds pass, but we see his status change to online. He reads the message, and the dots wiggle.
Paddy: Fine, curly cries
I think your mum was expecting you to come home today
Paddy: Something came up. Be back when I can
“He’s fine.” I show my phone to Siobhan.
“Stupid shit,” she blurts before adding, “Excuse my French.”
I lift my hand, letting her know it’s fine. Paddyisa stupid shit for scaring her like this. I want to call him again and give him a piece of my mind. “Want me to walk you home?” I say instead.
“No, you get inside. I’ll call Frank and have him meet me. Thank you, dear.”
“You’re welcome. And if I hear anything more, I’ll let you know.”
Her eyes dazzle at me. Is she crying? “See you tomorrow around five?”
