Everything okay? You’re a little quiet. Is meeting all these new people stressful?” Jamie steered Hayley closer to the Christmas tree, slightly away from their guests, who were grouped in various places around the living room, hallway and kitchen. “Are you wishing I’d never suggested a party?”
“No. I want to meet your friends and family. And they’re interesting. Nice people.” She felt as if she’d met a million new people although in fact there were probably fewer than twenty. She’d met a couple of Jamie’s friends who were home for Christmas, family friends, neighbors and of course Will’s parents. And every conversation she had taught her more about Jamie. “And the place looks so Christmassy. Your mother has worked hard.”
“She loves this time of year. She loves having the whole family together.” He studied her. “If it’s too much we can escape back to our room. Whatever you need, I’m here for you.”
“Jamie, this party is for us!”
“Exactly. It’s for us. And if you’re finding it stressful, then we should leave. If anything feels awkward, you’re to tell me. I’m going to be right here.”
She studied him closely. “Why are you suddenly treating me as if I’m fragile?”
“I’m not.”
She raised an eyebrow. “Jamie?”
He sighed. “How is it you can read me so well? Rosie might have pointed out that I wasn’t being supportive enough, and I intend to rectify that.”
“You’re supportive, Jamie.”
“No, I thought about what she said and she’s right. Because I’m so comfortable with my family I assumed you would be too. I keep forgetting they’re strangers to you. I’m sorry I abandoned you when Becky and Will arrived.”
So that was what had prompted Rosie to have words with him.
Hayley was touched that she’d noticed and touched that she’d taken the time to try to make the situation easier.
“I don’t need protecting. You don’t need to worry.” She hesitated. “I just don’t want to do, or say, the wrong thing, that’s all.”
“Is that why you’re quiet? Because you’re worried about doing or saying the wrong thing? Say what you like. Do what you like. In fact, if you need to sneak upstairs, just whisper in my ear.” He curved his arm around her and pulled her closer. “And if you could do that sooner rather than later, I wouldn’t object. Why did I want a party? I must have been mad. All I want is to be alone with you. What do you think? Shall we do it?”
She felt the warmth of his hand on her back and for a moment she even considered it. Then she dismissed the idea. This was his family. These were the people he’d known all his life. She wanted to know them too.
Also it would upset his mother, who had gone to so much trouble.
“I don’t want to leave. I like watching everyone. I like learning new things about you. Did you really lock your teacher inthe classroom when you were ten or was that something your friend said to embarrass you?”
“Sadly, it’s true. I showed a distinct lack of judgement, although in my defence I should say that the snow was the best ever and the whole class wanted to build a snowman. I tried to make it happen.”
“The goals of a ten-year-old. Did he ever forgive you? The teacher?”
“It was she, and yes, she did. You met her earlier. Mrs Everly. Standing over by the fireplace talking to Becky. Slightly scary looking.”
Hayley looked across the room and recognised the woman deep in conversation with his sister and Will. “She didn’t mention it.”
“She told me once that she believes it’s important to let a person move on from their mistakes.”
“Good for her.”
She shifted her gaze from Mrs Everly to Jamie’s parents, who were standing near the piano. Jenny was wearing a fitted dress in a deep shade of plum. She looked both elegant and festive, her hair swept up in a casual updo, secured by a sparkly clip. She and Martin were chatting to Will’s parents, and laughing so hard it made you want to laugh with them. The affection between them was visible for all to see.
As she watched, Jamie’s mother gestured for Will and Becky to join them.
Hayley felt wistful and a little sick.
“Your parents are so happy about Becky and Will.”
“Yes.” His gaze rested on her face. “What? What are you thinking?”
“Nothing.”
