He knew Emma wouldn’t be fazed by the circles he mixed in. Look how she’d handled the cast and crew. And Anika. His blood ran cold. Yes, Emma had indeed endured a lot and taken it all in her stride. Felix considered what her father would make of it all. Perhaps he ought to meet him, explain in person the turn of events. It was his daughter after all.
His mood lifted when he reached the tidal road. It was a real comfort to know his house was the only one on the peninsula. Felix wanted to make the most of the remaining break. Once filming started again, it would mean various meetings would also be scheduled and he’d have to go back to the city. The thought filled him with dread, such was his affinity to Samphire Bay. He knew better than to suggest further meetings be held at his house. Initially it had been ideal for all to see the location, but the team were hardly likely to travel again when they were all based in London. So, he’d have to get used to the hustle and bustle again. Still, it was only temporary. At least now he had an escape, a haven to return to – and Emma.
A sudden chill ran over him. What if Emma decided to go? She’d made no secret of her ambitions. Supposing she wanted to give it a shot with her band and go off touring? The very notion of returning to an empty house, with no Emma inside was unthinkable. He didn’t want this to happen; hecouldn’tlet this happen. But at the same time, he knew how selfish he was being. Emma had real talent, of course she should be able to pursue it.
With a jolt, inspiration struck. Why had he not thought of it before? He gave a slow smile and leant back into his seat, an enormous sense of satisfaction blanketing over him.
Emma was hoovering her bedroom when Felix arrived home. He automatically climbed the stairs two at a time to see her. Following the sound of the vacuum, he paused before entering her bedroom.
‘Felix?’ called Emma.
He pushed the door open and smiled. ‘Hi,’ he said, feeling a touch uncomfortable being in her private space.
‘Hi. Madeleine get off okay?’ she asked, turning off the hoover.
‘Yes, her flight was on time.’
‘Good.’
There was a slight hiatus before they both spoke at the same time.
‘Felix, we—’
‘I was—’
‘No, you first,’ said Emma.
‘I’d like to meet your father,’ Felix replied, taking her by surprise.
‘Oh, right…’
‘It seems appropriate, doesn’t it?’
Emma looked searchingly into his face. Felix gazed into those mesmerising amber eyes and melted.
‘Appropriate?’
‘Well, after everything that’s happened,’ he continued.
‘Yes… I suppose…’
‘Good. How about tomorrow? I thought maybe a meal here? Is that OK?’
‘Er… yes. Bunty too?’ asked Emma.
‘Lovley, why not?’ smiled Felix.
