Page 85 of A Secret Escape

Assuming that he was sharing that detail to ensure she didn’t harbor fantasies about a romantic future, Connie had assured him that she had no interest in giving up her lovely independent life.

Neither of them was looking for love, but they both agreed that their new friendship was something to be treasured.

She raised her water glass. “To being happily single. And to getting back up when we fall off the horse. Preferably without broken bones.” Had she broken a rib? No, she was sure it was simply bruised. Like the rest of her. Nothing that time wouldn’t heal.

Brian lifted his glass in response. “You’re an extraordinary woman, Connie.” He broke off. “Did you hear something? Footsteps?”

The sound of the doorbell echoed through the house, and Connie turned her head.

“Now, who can that be on a Sunday evening?”

She didn’t feel up to visitors. Maybe Brian was right. She should have gone to the hospital for a checkup. She was going to have an early night. But first a hot bath to ease the aches and pains.

“It could be Prince Charming.” Brian put his glass down. “I can hide under the table if you like so that I don’t ruin your chances.”

“I’d be more interested in his horse. You know that about me by now.”

Brian laughed. “I do.”

“It’s probably someone selling something. Hopefully if we ignore it, they’ll go away.”

But they didn’t go away. The bell went again, and then Connie heard the sound of a key in the lock.

“That must be my daughter.” She stood up and immediately wished she hadn’t as pain tore through her skull. Once Brian had gone she was going to put an ice pack on her head.

Seconds later, Milly appeared in the doorway.

Connie automatically pulled her hair forward over her face to try and hide the bruise that was fast developing. She angled her body so that Milly wouldn’t notice the rip in her shirt. Fortunately for her, Milly was distracted.

Her eyes were bloodshot, her eyelids red and puffy. Connie felt her stress levels soar.

Now what?

Zoe had been with Richard this weekend, and Milly always found it hard. Was that what this was?

And then she saw Zoe hovering behind Milly.

Her emotions started to churn, and she took a slow breath. Whatever had happened (no doubt something thoughtless Richard had said or done), whatever the problem, nothing would be solved by her getting in a state.If there was one thing her conversations with Brian had reinforced, it was that you were of much more use to your child when you were calm and supportive. An emotional response simply escalated everything.

“What a lovely surprise,” she said. “Come in, both of you. This is Brian, a friend.”

“And I was just leaving.” Brian stood up. “Good to meet you, Milly. I’ve heard a lot about you. All good things, in case you were wondering.”

Milly produced something close to a smile and shook hands with him.

Brian reached for his jacket. “I’ll see you next week, Connie. And please take care of yourself.”

“I will.” She was grateful that he didn’t mention her accident in front of Milly. “Keep me updated on news of Annie.”

He gave her a nod and a warm smile, and a few seconds later she heard the front door close behind him.

She felt an immediate sense of loss and wished he hadn’t rushed off.

“I’m sorry.” Milly dropped the bag she was carrying. “I should have called first, but—” She stopped and stared at her mother in horror. “What happened? There’s blood on your lip and on your shirt. Your elbow is scraped. Did you fall?”

So much for hoping Milly wouldn’t find out.

“I had a little tumble from the horse, and Brian kindly brought me home. I’m fine.”

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