Page 98 of The Making of Marnie Jones

“You’ll always be welcome to visit.”

“Just Olivia?”

“Jake—”

He waved his hand. “Unfair of me to ask.”

Her heart skipped a beat. “I wouldn't mind if you said hello to me as well.”

“Just hello?”

“Don't push your luck.” The curl of her lips belied her words and tone.

He sobered. “I don't want you to think I'm pushing.”

“I was kidding.”

“I'm not.” His response was swift and heartfelt. “This is too important to me.”

Taken aback by his words and vehemence, she wasn't sure how to respond.

“Why don’t you two set the table?”

At Matilda's voice, Marnie quickly dropped Jake's hand. Like a little child caught with her hand in the cookie jar, she jumped up and immediately moved to the cupboard. “Will Father be joining us?”

“Yes, he called from the office about an hour ago.” Matilda pointed to the clock. “He’ll be here shortly, which is why you need to set the table.” There was no sarcasm in her tone, only gentle teasing.

As Marnie began to turn, Matilda winked at her before returning her attention to Olivia.

Marnie paused, did that mean...

“We have her approval.” Jake had obviously been watching.

So she hadn't been mistaken.Breathe. No need to panic. She was in control of this. Whatever this was.

During dinner, however, she was more observer than participant.

Olivia and Matilda continued their conversation about cooking, while Martin and Jake carried on a heated, yet friendly, debate about corporate responsibility regarding the environment. Interestingly, they agreed on more points than they differed.

She marveled at her father's less-stuffy demeanor.

Wonder of wonders.

***

Several hours later, Marnie eased herself into one of the chairs, mindful of Matilda's watchful eye.

“Headache?”

“Mostly gone.”

Matilda sat on the couch, letting slip a little noise of satisfaction. “Are you sure?”

“That the headache’s mostly gone?”

“That you can take on that young woman as your charge. She can stay here.”

Marnie contemplated. “I appreciate the option remaining on the table, but this feels right. Maybe I'm being naïve about how much work is going to be involved, but I have to try.” She fought the overwhelming sense of panic growing again. Maybe shewasgetting in over her head.

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