Hot Revenge Box Set 4

James

In the kitchen, pushing bacon around a pan, I ponder how to square the circle and re-introduce Georgie and Charlotte. The fact is that Georgie created the whole hornets’ nest herself by being so appallingly rude, not just to me, but Charlotte too, the first time they met.

But if I truly want any kind of future relationship with my daughter… my elder daughter… I need to get the pair of them, if not friendly, at least polite with each other.

Richard and Beth descend the stairs, she leaning heavily on him for support. She sits clumsily, trying to find a comfortable position so she can eat.

Fanning her face, “I can barely reach the table over my stomach.” She’s laughing but the laugh sounds strained and she runs hands over her enormous belly. “I’ll be glad when Adam arrives and I can get back to being able to move again.

Charlotte looks up from where she is giving Cara her breakfast. “Know what you mean. I tell you, it’s a real relief afterwards, getting back to feeling you’re the only one occupying your body.”

Beth sags, blowing air, but Richard is there, serving her with her favourite muesli and yoghurt. He kisses her cheek. “Not long now, my Love.”

I poke at the bacon then flip it over in the pan, “Anything special you’d like, Beth?”

She brightens. “A boiled egg?”

“No problem. Just the one?”

“Two, then.”

“Coming up.” I head for the fridge. “Anyone else for boiled eggs?”

a knock.

Damn…

for who could be knocking at this

Only one in fact.

say, setting the frying pan

and he gives a small nod, nudging his chair closer to Charlotte’s. Occupied

hall, I work at quelling the unease in my gut which hovers somewhere

Georgie. Chin lifted, eyeing me, “Hi, Dad. Can I come

wide,

doubletakes as she sees Georgie. Turning away, to Cara’s squalled protests, she buttons up her

home. Georgie is the visitor here.” I flash eyes at my daughter and

a step or two towards Charlotte, then falters at the cat-eyed warning there. Charlotte

to apologise…” says Georgie... “… For being so rude to you before. I… I was hoping we could be… friends…” Her voice trails

Georgie. Then, to Michael, sitting by her, head tilted. He murmurs something to her. I can’t

head. “Apology accepted,” she

seat, “Cara needs changing.” And, baby in arms, she sidles past Georgie, heading for the door. She doesn’t quite brush past me, but instead, halts. “’Scuse

she’s headed. Charlotte bolts along the hall and up the stairs,

glum-faced. “Sorry, Dad. I

to apologise to, Georgie. I’d say you have