Chapter 31
Jack approached the entrance to Augusta House, wound down the car window and pressed the intercom.
‘Come through, Jack.’ Tara had been ready, watching for his car to arrive. Calum had got off nicely to school, totally oblivious to what lay in store for his parents in court that day.
She made her way to the car looking very demure in a navy-blue dress and jacket. It was the most formal Jack had seen her.
‘Hi, all set?’ he asked as she climbed in next to him.
‘As well as I’ll ever be,’ replied Tara in a serious tone. She’d just be glad when the whole thing was over.
‘Does Calum know about the hearing?’ said Jack, wondering how this was affecting him.
‘No. I’ve kept it from him and it looks like Richard has too.’ She turned to face him. ‘I don’t even think he’s told Melissa.’
Jack blinked. ‘Really?’
‘Yeah, I’m convinced he still thinks he can worm his way out of this, without her knowledge.’
He gave a harsh laugh. ‘Then she could be in for a shock.’
‘She will if I get what I’ve applied for,’ answered Tara flatly. Not that it bothered her what Melissa thought. It was more the consequences from Richard. She knew full well what to expect from him when he didn’t get his own way.
‘On a lighter note, I’ve booked lunch at The Seaview.’ Jack smiled, trying his best to keep her upbeat. It worked. Her face broke into a warm beam.
‘Oh, thanks, Jack, that’ll be lovely.’ Then she added, ‘Let’s hope we’ve something to celebrate.’
The journey to the County Court didn’t take long. They parked up and met Claire, who was waiting in the reception area. IfJack thought Tara looked demure, this was nothing compared to Claire. She wore a tailored black trouser suit with shoulder pads. Pure power dressing. She carried a briefcase, no doubt containing all the facts and figures to throw at Richard. He smiled to himself, already liking her.
‘You OK?’ Claire searched Tara’s face, as if willing her to stay strong.
‘Yes,’ she nodded. ‘Claire, this is Jack. Jack, meet Claire, my best mate.’
‘And solicitor,’ chipped in Claire with a grin as she shook Jack’s hand. She’d been delighted when Tara had previously told her about him and to expect him there.
Jack smiled in return. ‘Pleased to meet you.’
‘Is he here?’ Tara spoke in a hushed voice, eyes darting around the reception area.
‘Oh yes,’ replied Claire with sarcasm. ‘He’s already given me a dirty look.’
‘Where is he?’ asked Jack, frowning. He’d discreetly scanned the area but hadn’t seen any sign of him.
‘Over there, in a syndicate room with his solicitor.’ Claire tipped her head towards a small corridor with three doors.
‘He’s got representation?’ hissed Tara.
‘Apparently. A last-minute job. Don’t worry, nothing I can’t handle,’ assured Claire.
Jack believed her. This solicitor friend of Tara’s looked the epitome of cool, calm and collected.
Claire checked her watch. ‘We’re first on the list so won’t be delayed.’
Jack questioned if she’d sorted that too. He wouldn’t be surprised. She looked completely in control, in her natural habitat, whereas Tara appeared the opposite – nervy and uncomfortable. Yet he knew her inner strength, having witnessed her performance with Jasmine’s labour and on theA&E wards. Tara had backbone. She only needed to believe in herself.
Then out came Richard, accompanied by his solicitor, an arrogant-looking middle-aged man, wearing half-rimmed glasses and a haughty expression. Claire gave him a sweeping look and turned to Tara.
‘Don’t be misled. He may look the part, but he’s thick as pig muck,’ she whispered with a wink, making Tara and Jack giggle.
