‘You’re here,’ she managed.
His mouth parted slightly, and she watched his gaze fall to her lips. ‘Yeah,’ he said, sounding just as surprised.
Chapter 2
Jamie
Jamie found he couldn’t stop staring at Alice. She was in his arms, her face so close to his. It was all so surreal.
‘I thought you weren’t being released till next year,’ she said quietly, not attempting to move from his hold.
‘I lied. I didn’t want to tell you in case something went wrong.’ He dipped his head. ‘After eight years inside, I guess I was finding it hard to believe I’d ever be free.’
‘But you’re free now?’ It was as though she needed the confirmation.
‘Yes. I’ve served my time.’
‘I would have come got you.’
He met the kindness in her light-brown eyes and smiled. ‘You’ve done enough for me.’
They stayed staring at each other as another beat passed.
‘Jamie, I—’
Demi came walking out from the dining room. ‘Alice, I’ve . . . Oh, erm . . .’
Jamie gently lowered Alice to her feet, then turned to the woman in her late-thirties gawping his way.
‘Demi, this is Jamie. Mabel’s grandson.’ Alice cleared her throat, and Jamie watched her paste on a smile. ‘Demi is the chef here. Makes brekkie, and we are now open to the public for lunch.’ She brushed her hands down her jeans.
Demi stepped closer. ‘Pleased to meet you. I’m sorry about your gran. I hadn’t known her long. She was always so lovely.’
‘Thank you.’
Demi thumbed towards the door. ‘I’m just heading to the pub to grab some carrots, only we’ve run out. I live a couple ofdoors down at the Jolly Pirate with Robson. Not sure if you know him.’
Jamie nodded. ‘I remember Robson.’
Demi smiled softly. ‘Pop over whenever you like. I don’t drink myself, but I’m happy to buy you one. Welcome you home.’
He wasn’t expecting that, but then again, Demi didn’t know the old version of him. ‘Thank you, but I’m sure Robson wouldn’t want me in his pub.’
‘Look,’ said Demi, ‘I won’t beat around the bush. I’ve heard about you, and I know you standing here means you’ve just got out of prison, right?’
He nodded, wondering what was coming next.
She tapped her chest. ‘I was in prison once, so I know what it feels like to step back outside and feel a little lost. We need people to believe in us. To give us a second chance.’
Jamie stole a glance at Alice before returning his attention to Demi’s brown eyes revealing nothing but friendliness.
She smiled softly. ‘There’s a place I go to that helps ex-offenders. It’s called The Butterfly Company. They got me my first job when I was released. I could take you over there one day, if you like.’
‘Thanks. I know the place. I’m already booked in to go there tomorrow.’
‘That’s brilliant,’ said Demi. ‘They’re so good. Would you like me to come with you?’
‘You’re very kind, but I’ll be fine by myself, thanks.’
