Page 160 of Take My Hand

“Dad, I was pissed already.”

“I know that but,” I said, patting her hand still in mine, “I know you, and I know that you’re sensible enough to know when you’ve had enough to drink. Her spiking your cider with vodka wasn’t funny because it took away your control, and we all know how you like to have control.” I smile wryly and earned myself a grin.

“I don’talwayshave to have control, but I do know you’re right. Zak and I even argued about it.” She shook her head. “And he’s on your side.”

“Good lad.”

“As if he’d do or say anything opposite to you. He loves you.”

She shook her head, but her grin told me she liked the idea.

“Like I said, he’s a good lad.” Grinning, I pulled her close, so that her cheek was resting on my chest. “I’m glad you had a good time, Mads, but I’m also glad that you’re home, safe and sound. As for Ana, I personally would be avoiding her.” I heard her take a breath to speak, but I jumped in before she had chance. “I’m not saying cut her out of your life totally, but I do think you should maybe keep your distance. At least while she’s in the head space that she’s in.”

“Dad, I can’tnotbe there for her. She’s my best friend. What if she needs my help?”

“Then be there for her. Check in with her, but make sure you don’t let her take her advantage of you again. Be on your guard and make sure she knows no more stunts, or I’ll be speaking to her mum and dad.”

She contemplated it for a few seconds and then nodded. “I will. I’ll speak to her tomorrow and try and find out why she didn’t turn up.” Her head shifted against my chest. “Am I an awful friend, Dad?”

I looked down to see worry in her eyes. “Why, sweetheart?”

“I didn’t think of her once, the whole weekend.”

“Don’t feel bad about that. It’s understandable, the ways she’s been recently, and no one begrudges you having a good time. You’re seventeen, that’s what you’re supposed to be doing.”

“I know, but she’s my best friend, and she never entered my head.”

Maddy had a big heart, and she loved Ana, but she needed to realise it was okay to have fun.

“That’s okay, Mads, because you should be able to have fun without worrying about it or anyone else.” I hugged her tight. “Life is too short, and it’s not like Ana will know.”

“I suppose.” She sighed. “Anyway, did you save me anything to eat? I’m starving.”

“You haven’t eaten already?”

“A crappy sandwich before we got on the train.”

I kissed the top of her head. “Good job I saved you some lasagne then. Garlic bread?”

“Oh yes please, and mayo on the side.”

“You’re a weird child,” I told her, even though I would give her anything she wanted, even mayonnaise with lasagne. It was good to be taking care of her, because if she went away to uni, I wouldn’t have many more opportunities for a while.

Later, I went to check in on my other girl and was surprised to find her awake.

“Hey, gorgeous.” I knelt by the side of the bed and ran a hand down her hair. “You in pain?”

“Hmm, a bit. Nothing major. I only just woke.” She gave me a sad little smile and reached up to place her hand on mine. “Can’t I sleep with you?”

Chuckling I ran my finger over her pouty lips. “No, you need to get some proper sleep, and I don’t want to roll onto your arm.”

“You can sleep on the other side.”

“But you know I like to fling my arm over you, then what about your ribs?”

Maya sighed heavily, followed by a little grimace.

“See,” I told her. “You can’t even sigh without pain.”

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