Chapter 35
Jack entered the hospital, hoping to see his dad still in a stable condition. His mum had rung him to say he’d been transferred to a general ward and out of intensive care earlier on. Much to his relief, Austin was sat up in bed looking settled. His face lit up when seeing Jack approach him.
‘Dad, how are you feeling?’
‘Tired, but better, thanks.’
Jack sat down beside his bed.
‘Where’s Mum?’ he asked.
‘She’s gone for a coffee and some fresh air,’ replied Austin, then closed his eyes briefly and inhaled deeply. ‘Listen, Jack, there are things I need to tell you,’ he started, wanting this conversation before his wife returned.
‘I know, Dad. Tara’s told me everything,’ interrupted Jack in a quiet voice. Their eyes met. Jack was shocked to see his dad’s were teary.
‘I never wanted to hurt your mother. It was a big mistake, which I’ll regret for the rest of my life.’ Then he gave a harsh laugh. ‘Which could easily have ended yesterday, if it wasn’t for Tara.’ He looked straight into Jack’s face.
‘I know,’ was all he could say and gulped.
‘She’s a… remarkable woman and I can’t thank her enough, despite… you know,’ Austin trailed off, not quite knowing the best way to express himself.
‘Dad, we have to draw a line under the whole thing. You and Mum, you’re OK now, aren’t you?’
‘Absolutely,’ said his dad and nodded firmly. ‘The woman’s a saint.’
‘Yes. She is,’ replied Jack resolutely.
‘And I’ll never hurt her again,’ continued Austin, still staring at Jack.
‘Good, then let’s—’
‘Oh, Jack, you’re here!’ called his mum, scurrying up the ward. She came to give him a hug.
‘You OK, Mum?’ asked Jack softly.
‘Iam. It’s him we’re all worried about,’ she replied, pointing towards her husband. His head bent downwards, unable to meet her gaze.
Guilty conscience, thought Jack. Good. Hopefully his dad had learnt a lesson, convinced it was his shame and stress that had contributed towards his heart attack. Now he knew Tara was no longer a threat to him, andhecertainly didn’t want any awkwardness between his dad and girlfriend, optimistically, relations should improve between them all. Judging from his dad’s words, he was at pains to keep his mum happy, which was precisely what Jack wanted. As long as everyone played their part, his family could be a content one, he felt sure. After all, Taradidsave his dad’s life. They all owed her. And Tara? She was just glad Jack knew the truth about her involvement in it all. Surely they could all put the past behind them?
As if reading his mind, Austin held out his hand. Jack took it.
‘Thank Tara for me, won’t you?’
‘Yes, I will,’ he said with a smile.
Tara was actually busy in the nearby ward. She’d resisted going to see Austin, knowing his wife was with him, but knew Jack was due to visit that morning. Then, just as she’d been thinking about him, she saw his face through the glass door at the bottom of the ward. He’d obviously wanted to catch her, if possible.Luckily, Tara had just finished with a patient, so quickly walked to the door and opened it.
‘How did he look?’ she asked with searching eyes.
‘OK. He sends his eternal thanks,’ replied Jack with a half-smile.
‘Good. I’m just glad he’s recovered well,’ answered Tara.
Jack couldn’t have admired her more. His dad was right, she really was remarkable.
‘Are you free this evening?’ he asked with hope.
‘Yes. Richard’s got Calum tonight,’ replied Tara. ‘And I’m off tomorrow,’ she added with a twinkle in her eye.
