CHAPTER 6
THE CALL
Big Sean is my only link to Mum’s past. When she came to London from Ireland, young, pregnant and alone, he offered her a job in his pub and became like an uncle to me. But after Mum died, it got harder to keep in regular contact. And that’s on me. But he understands. He always does.
I used to visit him all the time: a big meal, a few drinks, a round of pool and a gutload of laughs. That was before life got so chaotic, complex and overwhelming.
Though I’ve moved numerous times across this city, Big Sean has stayed in the exact same place: behind the counter at The Fox and Hound.
Same phone number.
Same mop of curly brown hair, same open-collar white shirt, same huge, soft hands with sovereign rings and faded, old-ink tattoo letters on the knuckles.
Despite the time apart, I know he’ll always be around when I need him, with his special way ofhelping me feel like I’m doing okay, keeping me connected to reality – especially when I’m struggling.
But usually he texts or leaves a message, just to check in. He’s not one for ringing me… in fact, I don’t think I’ve ever got an unexpected call from Big Sean before.
I cover the screen of my phone with my palm just to make sure I’m not imagining things. I look again, look closer… It’s definitely Big Sean. Out of the blue like this? Maybe he needs my help? Unlikely – Big Sean doesn’t need help from anybody. Still, I need to be sure.
‘Hello?’ I say, my voice trembling slightly. ‘Sean? Is everything okay?’
‘Hey there, kiddo,’ Big Sean’s voice booms. ‘Yes, yes – nothing wrong so don’t fret, Daisy love. Long time no speak! How’ve you been?’
I take a deep breath, trying to steady my nerves. Phew! ‘Oh, great stuff. Glad all is well. Sorry I’ve not been in touch. Just busy with work and everything – like everyone, right?’
‘Ah, I see. Right you are, right you are.’ His deep voice softens. ‘Well, I hope you’re taking care of yourself.’
There’s a moment of silence on the other end, as if he’s trying to figure out what to say next.
‘Listen, I know this might sound a bit random, but I’ve got some unusual news for you. Something that I think you’ll want to hear.’
‘Random’ from Sean could mean anything. My heart races as sweat forms on the back of my neck. ‘Okay – you said everything’s all right, though?’
There’s a sharp intake of breath, hesitation in his deep Irish accent. ‘I’m sure it is, Daisy, but better safe than sorry, eh?’ He gives a heavy sigh. ‘There’s a fella, a lawyer no less, from Ireland snooping around the pub, asking me and a few of the old-timers about your mother… And asking about you too.’
A lawyer? Why? And after all this time?
‘Don’t worry, I’ve told him nothing, but you know yourself, no smoke without fire…’
I straighten up and clear my throat. ‘Mistaken identity, maybe? Some kind of mix-up…’
‘That may well be the case but…’ There’s a wheezy cough down the line; Sean’s voice lowers to a whisper: ‘The thing is, he’s a bit different from the usual sort, a cute fox he is… seems to know his stuff; all his facts check out – names, dates, addresses and the like… Daisy, love, I hate to bring this all up for you – you’re busy getting on with your life, and that’s all we want for you. But he says he’s got business he needs to sort out with you…’ There’s a desperation in his voice. ‘I wouldn’t call you up like this if I didn’t think it was important. Will you come to the pub? He’s here right now, having a bite to eat. You never know, it could be good news. He seems decent enough. He has some documents for you…’
My skin prickles. ‘Documents like what?’
‘Very official ones. O’Connor & Sons Solicitors. He was very tight-lipped, though; you know how lawyers can be. But the fact that he travelled all the way from Ireland in search of you is proof enough.’
I bite down on my lip, not sure what to think or what to say.
‘Daisy love, he’s come from Innisfree. So, it’s best if you met with him. Get to the bottom of it. Whatever it may be.’
I stand frozen to the spot for a moment, the weight of his words sinking in. My mind races with a million questions. A lawyer looking for me? From Innisfree?
‘It’s best you come and see for yourself,’ says Sean. ‘Are you nearby? I can send a cab for you if it’s easiest?’
I’mnot toofar away from the pub, so I manage to keep my voice even and tell Big Sean that I’ll be there soon, no need for a ride.
‘I’ll make sure he stays put until you arrive. He has a flight tonight, though, so don’t dally. See you soon, kiddo,’ says Big Sean before hanging up.
