Page 74 of The Boathouse By the Loch

‘Me too,’ Robyn said emphatically. She looked at Gayle and David. ‘Why do I think you’re ganging up on me, and won’t take no for an answer?’

David smiled. ‘We’re not ganging up on you. It’s just that it must be on your mind, your mum and when you’re going to let her know about your new life here.’

Gayle added, ‘Wouldn’t a party be the perfect time for her to meet everyone and get to know the real you?’

‘The real me,’ Robyn repeated, staring off into space.

David nodded. ‘She could stay a few days. Perhaps having family stay will make you feel more at home.’

‘You told Gayle I wasn’t happy at the boathouse.’

‘It’s not surprising, Robyn, that you’re finding it hard to settle. You’ve still got unfinished business.’

Robyn sighed. ‘I’ll say.’

David looked at her sharply. Then his face softened. ‘I think if you had your mum come and stay, she’d help with your memory problems. By all means, go and see Dr Jamieson. Perhaps she can refer you to someone. But in the meantime, doesn’t it make sense if someone who knows you best comes to see you, and you spend time together? I bet she’ll help you remember. After all, no one knows you quite like your parents.’

Gayle and David sat there with bated breath, wonderingwhether Robyn would agree. ‘All right. I suppose it couldn’t hurt.’

David jumped out of his seat. ‘Fantastic!’

Gayle was out of her seat too, clapping enthusiastically. ‘Oh, boy, I love a party.’

Nick walked into the kitchen and stopped. ‘Did I miss something?’

‘We’re having a party at the boathouse!’ David exclaimed.

‘I hope I’m invited.’

‘Of course you are. And Olive, of course. Where’s Marty?’

‘Late night out with his mates. I expect he’s having a lie-in.’

‘What’s the party in aid of?’ Nick asked, taking a seat at the table.

David replied, ‘It’s a housewarming and engagement party.’

Nick nodded. ‘Sweet.’

‘The guest of honour is going to be Robyn’s mum, Judith.’

‘I haven’t met her,’ commented Nick.

‘No, none of us have. She’s going to be staying at the boathouse for a few days. At least, that’s the plan.’

‘Ah, having the future mother-in-law to stay. Not so sweet.’

David slapped his arm. ‘Hey, don’t put the kibosh on our plans.’

Nick whispered, ‘I think someone already has.’ He cocked his head at Robyn’s sour expression.

David’s good humour evaporated. ‘Robyn?’

‘But what will she do all day while I’m at work?’ Robyn asked.

David looked across at Gayle, who nodded her head and said, ‘Tell her.’

Robyn sighed. ‘What else have you two been planning before I came down to breakfast?’

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