Page 40 of Be More Lucy

‘Yes. She contacted Nigel out of the blue last year. She must’ve got his details off Xander’s will. He insisted on a DNA test to make sure it was really her before he handed over any cash.’

‘Have you met her?’

‘No.’

‘Why would Lucy be asking about her?’

‘I have no idea.’ Jack sighed.

‘What shall I say?’

‘Don’t reply yet. I’ll message Mark.’

Jack picked up his phone.

Why is Lucy asking about Gabriella? What should I say?

Em looked over his shoulder

‘It’s delivered, but he’s not read it yet,’ Jack said.

‘I can’t leave Lucy hanging.’

Jack flopped back on the pillow. ‘Tell her I’m asleep like any normal human being would be at 12.10 am.’

Em glared at him.

‘Ok. Leave that last bit off.’

‘I’ll say I’ll ask you in the morning,’ she said, tapping out the reply.

23

Jack heard a knock on the front door of the flat. He turned over and looked at the clock. 7.55 am. It was probably one of the guests wanting to ask about something before they checked out. Em’s side of the bed was empty. She’d deal with them. He pulled the duvet closer around himself and closed his eyes again.

‘I knew you’d be up early. Can you drive me to the station?’ Lucy’s voice.

‘Aren’t you staying until tomorrow? I thought we were going into Exeter to look at wedding dresses together today?’ Em sounded disappointed.

‘I’m so sorry. I really need to get home. I don’t want to be anywhere near Mark. I promise I’ll come back another weekend when he’s not here.’

Jack sighed. He better be sociable and say goodbye to Lucy.

Em was putting on her trainers as he emerged from the bedroom, bleary-eyed.

‘Did Em ask you?’ Lucy looked directly at him.

‘And good morning to you too,’ Jack smiled. ‘Ask me what?’

‘About Mark’s imaginary sister.’

Jack had forgotten about the conversation last night. ‘Just a minute,’ he said, going back into the bedroom to pick up his phone. There was a reply from Mark.

She thinks I’m a liar.

The reply was only ten minutes old. Jack typed his response.

Do you want me to confirm you have a sister?

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