Page 29 of The Unforgiven
“To whom? To a pupil?”
“No, she was on her mobile. She was laughing, so I thought it was a funny thing to say.”
“I’m going to have a word with your teacher,” Gabe said. Who knew what else the children overheard during the course of the day? Gabe was sure the use of mobile phones was prohibited during class hours, but clearly, the teachers were bringing their personal lives into the classroom. It was a losing battle, really. Most of his students kept their mobiles on during lectures, despite being asked to turn them off, and often texted, looked things up, and even watched videos during class. As much as Gabe enjoyed modern technology, he found the lack of respect difficult to deal with, as an educator and as a parent. He snuck a sidelong glance at Emma. It was just a matter of time before she asked for a phone. He’d seen several of her classmates proudly displaying theirs, making the others green with envy. Well, he’d try to hold off on that conversation as long as possible.
“Don’t,” Emma said.
“Don’t what?”
“Don’t talk to Miss Aubrey tomorrow. She’ll think I’m a snitch. No one will want to be my friend if they find out.”
Gabe opened his mouth to reply, but closed it again, considering what Emma had said. She was right. No one liked a snitch. Perhaps he’d have to find some other way of voicing his concerns. Emma really liked Miss Aubrey and wished to remain in her good graces.
“All right. I won’t say anything, I promise. In any case, you won’t be going to school tomorrow,” Gabe began, about to tell Emma that they would be going to see Phoebe and Graeme when his mobile began to vibrate in his pocket. “Hold on,” he said as he checked the display. “Hello, Mum.”
“Gabe?” Phoebe’s voice sounded strange, almost strangled. There was a shaky intake of breath on the other end of the line.
“What is it?”
“Gabe, you must come at once, but without Emma.”
“Why? What’s happened?” His heart began to beat faster, and his breath caught in his throat. His mother never summoned him home, so this had to be serious.
“Your father’s had a heart attack. I’m at the hospital with him now.”
“Mum, I’ll be there as soon as I can. I just have to get a few things sorted.” Gabe hung up and looked down at Emma. The expression on her face was way too serious for a child of four, and she slid her hand into his, needing reassurance that everything was all right.
“What’s wrong with Grandad?” she asked, her voice small.
“Grandad is a little unwell, but there’s nothing for you to worry about. Nothing at all,” Gabe lied smoothly. Emma had been traumatized enough already; there was no need to frighten her. He’d tell her the truth once he knew what they were dealing with. But if he couldn’t bring her to Berwick, what was he supposed to do with her? Gabe sorted through the options. He could ask Pete and Brenda to look after her, but Brenda often worked night shifts and Pete wasn’t equipped to look after a little girl. Jill had her shop, which didn’t close till seven, and Quinn’s parents were in Spain.
Sylvia.
Gabe dialed her number and hoped she’d pick up.
“Gabe? Is Quinn all right?” Sylvia asked the moment she answered her mobile. The question surprised Gabe at first, but he quickly realized Sylvia would never expect a social call from him.
“Yes, Quinn is fine. Sylvia, I have a favor to ask. My father’s been taken ill and I must leave for Berwick tonight. Would you mind terribly looking after Emma for a day or two?”
“I’d be delighted. Emma and I will have a wonderful time. She’ll hardly notice you’re gone.”
“Brilliant. I’ll drop her off in about an hour, if that’s okay.”
“Sure. Just remember to pack her pajamas, toothbrush, favorite film and toy, and several changes of clothes.”
“Will do. Thanks again, Sylvia.”
“Not a problem. Jude is actually at home until next Wednesday. Then he leaves for Dublin. He thought Emma was charming.”
Gabe cringed inwardly. He would have preferred it if Sylvia could give Emma her full attention, but beggars couldn’t be choosers. It was only for a few days.
“Em, guess what?” Gabe said, trying to sound like he was filled with excitement.
“What?”
“You are going to have a sleepover at Grandma Sylvia’s.”
“I am?” Emma sounded less than thrilled. “Why can’t I come with you? I can look after Buster. He’ll need someone to play with him.”
