‘How are you?’ she added when Sarah didn’t move.
Finally Sarah got up and came towards her. ‘I’m fine. How are you?’
Buoyed with her news, she decided it would be fine to tell her. ‘Can you keep a secret?’
‘What is it?’
‘I’m not really supposed to tell anyone yet, so don’t mention anything to Danny. I found out a few days ago that I’m pregnant.’
‘Oh, wow,’ Sarah cried. ‘Congratulations.’
‘Thanks. I can’t quite believe it.’
‘When are you due?’
‘Next spring. I’m eight weeks gone.’ Juliette beamed at her. ‘Danny and I are super pleased. And I know people might think that we’re replacing Emily, but it will never be like that.’
‘Of course not. I’m sure no one would be that silly.’
‘I know. I think about her every day. And every day, it gets a little less painful to realise that she’s gone. But still, it’s a way of looking forward to the future again.’
‘Well, I’m thrilled for you.’ Sarah nodded, then wiped at her cheek.
‘Hey.’ Juliette noticed her tears. ‘I’m sorry. I know talking about pregnancies can upset people. Me and my big mouth. I hope I haven’t offended you.’
‘It’s not that.’ Sarah gnawed on her bottom lip. ‘I don’t know how long I can keep doing this.’
‘Doing what?’
‘It’s so deceitful.’
‘What is?’
Sarah stood there for a moment, her face telling a tale of anguish. ‘I-I haven’t been honest with you.’ She looked up at Juliette. ‘You remember the child you thought you saw in the garden?’
‘How could I forget? I feel so stupid now and I?—’
‘No, it wasn’t your imagination. She’s real.’
CHAPTER TWENTY-NINE
Juliette froze. ‘I don’t understand.’
‘Her name is Daisy.’
‘What?’
‘She’s Richard’s child from his previous marriage. He goes out most nights and he locks me in the room with her.’
‘I don’t believe he’d—whatever for?’
‘He controls everything I do.’ Sarah glanced down the drive as if she was terrified that he would return any minute. ‘I’ve thought of telling you lots of times, but I didn’t know if you’d believe me.’
‘So instead you make me think I’m seeing and hearing things? That’s pretty low.’
‘I’m sorry. I have no choice but to go along with him. Richard – he scares me. He can be really cruel. I had to take a chance now he’s gone out, to talk to you. Iwasn’t going to mention anything but I-I can’t go on living like this. Under his control. It’s not right. Yet I don’t know what to do.’
‘Why do you stay?’ Juliette wanted to know.
