But I’m a patient man. It’s been fourteen years.
What’s another few months?
All I know is that now I’m in their lives, I don’t want to let them go.
28
CASSIE
Ithought I knew pain when I lost my parents, but Mark’s death casts a long shadow.
It’s sometimes difficult to get up in the mornings, but Sophie needs me and she gives me strength on the days I have none.
And then there’s Patrick.
True to his word, he’s a constant in our lives now.
He has to know Sophie’s his daughter, but he’s not said a word to me. Maybe he’s giving me space until I’m ready to acknowledge it.
Lauren comes and goes. She’s burying her grief in front of us, but I suspect in private she’s drinking.
It’s all a lot to cope with.
Patrick’s always there—whenever he can get away from work—but he’s at pains to keep on the edge of our lives. He never pushes, never tries to bulldoze his way in.
His presence is a source of both worry and comfort.
By the time Sophie’s birthday rolls around, I’m not concerned that he’s with us for the weekend.
Lauren’s here, but I’m grateful for the extra help given that we’ll have a house full of teenage girls.
“Hey,” he says softly. “I hope you don’t mind me intruding on your weekend.”
I shake my head. “No. Not at all. I’m not so outnumbered with you and Lauren around.”
He chuckles. “Maybe I should get out of here.”
“Don’t you dare. I need someone to commiserate with.”
“Patrick, you’re here.” Sophie runs across the living room and launches herself into his arms. It’s all I can do to hold it together as he hugs her, his eyes closed as if this means as much to him as it does me.
“Where else would I be when it’s my favourite girl’s birthday?” He lets her go. “I might even have a present here somewhere.”
He digs into his bag and pulls out a parcel.
I raise my eyebrows at him, but he just grins.
“Happy birthday, Sophie.”
He hands it to her, placing a kiss in her hair.
Tears prick my eyes.
“Thanks, Patrick.” She pecks him on the cheek and dives at the couch before ripping her parcel open. “Oh my God. An iPad?”
“Patrick, it’s too much.” I meet his gaze.
He grips my forearm. “Let me treat her. I want to take care of both of you.”
