Page 23 of Last Dance, Second Chance

“Hi, Mum,” Jessica said when Sarah answered. “Sorry, I missed your call.”

“Don’t worry, darling. Thanks for phoning back. Where are you?” Her mother squinted at her phone.

“Funny story,” said Jessica. “Do you remember Nathan Townsend? He was in my year at primary school.”

“Of course. He’s the new doctor I told you about. Lovely boy. He was so sweet on you.”

“Was he?” Jessica asked, a grin spreading across her face. “Anyway,” she said, realising she needed to keep on topic, “I’m in his house.”

“Oh,” said her mum, sounding surprised. “I haven’t had a chance to chat with him yet, but I’ve seen him walking his dog.”

“That’s right, Dennis.”

“And you’ve gone round to his house to say hello, have you?”

“Not exactly, Mum. I’m actually staying here while you’re away,” Jessica explained. “With Monty,” she added quickly.

“You’re staying with him,” Sarah repeated.

“Yes. I fell over the other day. I didn’t tell you because I didn’t want you to worry. Anyway, I broke my foot.” Jessica decided not to add Monty’s part in it.

“Oh no!” said Sarah immediately. “How badly?”

“It looks like a clean break from what they could tell on the X-ray, but I’ve got a cast that I need to wear for six weeks.”

“And then after that?”

“A lot of rehabilitation. I won’t be able to dance for at least three months.”

“So, what’s going to happen about The Sleeping Beauty?”

“My part’s been given to my understudy.” Jessica was proud of herself for managing to hold back her tears.

“Oh, darling, I’m so sorry. What a disappointment. Are you OK? What are you going to do for money?”

“The company’s insured if something like this happens, so I’ll be OK for money.”

“That’s something, at least. Oh, you poor thing,” said Sarah. “But... that still doesn’t explain why you’re staying at Nathan’s house.”

“Nathan was there when I fell and he took me to A & E. He was worried about how I’d manage by myself with Monty and with the only bathroom upstairs in your house and so he offered to have me stay here. He’s been really kind.”

“Thank goodness for Nathan. He’s right, you wouldn’t have been able to manage our house. I can’t believe you didn’t tell me before! I would have come straight home.”

“I know you would, and that’s exactly why I didn’t tell you. I didn’t want to spoil your holiday. I’m fine. I’m more than fine — Nathan’s taking really good care of me.”

“Are you sure? I can take the train back and Dad can stay here...”

“Honestly, Mum. I’m sorry I didn’t tell you before, but Nathan’s taking really good care of Monty and me. It’ll be lovely to see you when you get back, but please don’t cut your holiday short for me.”

“All right, but if you change your mind, just let me know and I can be home in a few hours. It’s so good of Nathan to step up and help you. He was always such a kind boy.”

“He’s been brilliant. Anyway, are you having a good time?”

“Lovely. The children have been in the swimming pool for hours every day, and we’ve had some wonderful walks. I’ll send you some photos once we’ve finished talking.”

“Great. I’d better go now. I need to give Nathan a hand making dinner.”

Sarah chuckled. “I never thought I’d see my girl so domesticated! Nathan’s obviously having a good effect on you. I’ll speak to you soon. And remember, if you need me, I’ll be home right away.”

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