46
‘How’s the little mite bearing up?’ Dermot asked Christie as he passed through reception.
‘Not bad. She looks so pale and tired, poor thing.’
‘Well, she’s had one hell of a knock,’ he replied shaking his head. Just then, Daniel came down the stairs and joined them. He too looked exhausted. ‘You OK, son?’ Dermot looked compassionately into Daniel’s eyes.
‘I’m getting there, thanks, Dermot.’ He then turned to Christie. ‘I need to enrol Emily in a school as soon as possible.’ Now that it was a given she would be living with him in Treweham, it was essential that he register her with the local primary school. Luckily, he had been assured that it was a particularly high-ranking one with a good reputation. One less thing to worry about, thought Daniel. He was gradually coming to terms with being a single parent. At times the enormity hit him, then in his quieter moments he realised he could make all the decisions without having to fight or convince Jenna. He also wouldn’t have to tolerate any unsuitable boyfriends that his daughter would encounter. From now on it was just him and Emily; that in itself was comfort enough.
His parents had been a brilliant support, actually offering to move nearer to his new home in Treweham, but he’d gratefully declined the offer. He really didn’t want to have to rely on anyone anymore. Daniel had been truly touched by the huge effort made by all the workmen at Keeper’s Cottage. Knowing that Tobias had instigated it had also moved him. He’d been moved, too, by all the kind words and backing offered by the locals, especially as he was new to Treweham. Dermot and Christie had shown nothing but concern for him and Emily on their return to The Templar. Christie, especially, had attended to their every need, but also had the insight to know when to back off and give them space.
All in all, he felt at home – that this was the place they were meant to be. As to be expected, Emily was a touch nervy and very clingy with him. She struggled sleeping at night and fretted if she was ever left alone, even for a moment. It broke Daniel’s heart seeing her little body tense at the slightest noise or sudden movement. Emily was continuing to see a child counsellor, and as advised, it was all a matter of adjusting. Daniel was confident she would, given the amount of time Emily had actually spent with Jenna.
On reflection, Daniel realised his daughter had lived between him and his parents probably more than with her mummy. She never once asked after JonJo, which was a relief. He, in turn, didn’t ever mention him. There was no need; he was well out of the picture, thank God. The bastard hadn’t even shown up at the funeral.
Daniel’s stomach contracted when picturing Jenna’s coffin being carried up the church aisle. He had chosen not to be a bearer; it just didn’t seem right. Her father and brothers were given the task. Instead, he sat at the back, his eyes darting across the pews, trying to decipher which of the mourners could be JonJo. In between recalling the happier times with Jenna, his ears would tune in to what was being said on the altar. “Devoted mother” struck a chord, and not a good one.
He’d refused point blank to take Emily. A funeral was no place for a four-year-old. His parents had agreed and had taken Emily out for the day instead. As Jenna’s coffin had been slowly lowered into the ground, still he found no emotion forthcoming. He was numb, devoid of any feeling. He made the effort to talk to her parents, who had confirmed that JonJo had not attended. He didn’t push for further information; he was past caring now. All he’d wanted to do was go home; and Treweham was home from now on.
Daniel had been staggered by the progress on Keeper’s Cottage. Even he hadn’t expected to find the outside structure complete. He’d been amazed. Now he had to concentrate on the internal layout. Again Tobias had proved more than helpful, offering suggestions and advice. Daniel was impressed with his team of workmen and the relationship Tobias had with them – no wonder his company was as successful as he’d heard.
Then there was Christie, whose voice alone warmed his heart. She was as beautiful on the inside, as she was on the outside. Emily had run into her arms when first seeing her at The Templar. Christie had picked her up and hugged her hard, bringing a lump to his throat. From then on, every opportunity Emily had, she’d be scurrying to Christie’s side. Daniel wondered if it was female company she missed. Christie was always pleased to see her, giving her odd jobs to keep her occupied, like helping set the tables or to tidy reception. Once or twice, Emily had insisted that it was Christie who read her bedtime story, while Daniel had sat surplus to requirements on the edge of the bed.
Whilst he was desperate to visit Christie’s bedroom, he wouldn’t run the risk of Emily waking up alone. Definitely not. So, any snatched opportunity they had for a kiss and cuddle they took, whether it be in a secluded corridor, or empty bar. Once or twice they’d come close to Dermot interrupting, but had just laughed it off.
Daniel was keen to have his own place and move into Keeper’s Cottage. Having Tobias on side and pushing things forward was a bonus. Emily needed stability, a proper home, and he was anxious to be in the cottage before she started school at the beginning of September.
‘The school in the village has an excellent reputation,’ Dermot told him.
‘Yes, I believe so.’
‘Where’s Emily?’ asked Christie.
‘She’s just fallen asleep. I’d better go back up.’
‘Listen, I’ll take her out this afternoon, give you chance to sort the school out,’ she said.
‘Would you? Thanks.’
Dermot looked on with an approving smile. It was good to see how they blended together. He was further pleased that Daniel was going to be a permanent villager. The time for his departure was fast approaching, now that Finula’s wedding had taken place. He was reluctant to leave Christie just at the moment, given the situation with Daniel, but he couldn’t stay forever.
