Page 7 of The Unseen
“At times. The incision is still healing, but it feels much better now.”
“Does this mean you’ll have another baby soon?” Emma pinned Quinn with an accusing stare.
“No, darling, it doesn’t mean that. Why do you ask?”
“Because Aidan at school said that you and Daddy will start shagging again and you’ll get up the duff.”
“Well, Aidan needs to mind his own business.”
“Willyou start shagging again?” Emma persisted.
“Do you know what that means?”
Emma looked shamefaced for a moment. “No. But it sounds like something that would be fun.”
“It is fun, darling, at the right time and with the right person, but you’re only five years old, so you have years and years to go until you have to concern yourself with that.”
“Will you explain it to me when I grow up?”
“Of course. I will answer any questions you have, as I always do. Now, how about you go wash your hands before lunch?”
“All right,” Emma conceded as Gabe came back into the room. “Daddy, do you like shagging?” she promptly asked. “Mum said it’s fun.”
“Well, I’m glad she thinks so,” Gabe replied.
“Doyoulike it?”
“Very much. Now, go wash your hands.” Gabe looked at Quinn, who was doing her best not to dissolve in a fit of giggles. “What was that all about?”
“Evidently, Aidan from school has been putting ideas in her head.”
“Ah, Aidan. That child is very well informed for a five-year-old.”
“He certainly is. Shame they’re in the same class again this year.”
“There’s always going to be an Aidan,” Gabe replied. “In my primary school, there was Billy Bacchus. He was a fount of useful information. I think my father would have loved to box Billy’s ears if such a thing were still acceptable. We’ll just have to answer her questions as honestly as we can without volunteering too much unnecessary information. It’s only natural that she should be curious with a new baby in the house.”
“Yes, that’s about the age they start wondering where babies come from. I remember asking my mum after Jill’s baby brother was born. I wanted a sibling so desperately. I thought maybe I could nudge my parents into having another baby. That was before I knew I was adopted.”
“Any word on Quentin’s whereabouts?” Gabe asked.
“None. Logan tried reaching out to Mr. Richards again, but he’s not even taking our calls at this stage. I spoke to Jill earlier and she mentioned that Brian has an idea.”
“What kind of idea?”
“I didn’t get a chance to find out. I’d like to have them round for dinner next week.”
“Sounds great. Shall I cook?”
“I would like them to survive the evening,” Quinn joked as she fastened the buttons of her top. Alex was fast asleep, a small satisfied smile tugging at his lips.
“Takeaway then?”
“No, I’ll cook. It’s been a while since I practiced the culinary arts, and Jill and Brian are not finicky eaters. Pasta and salad will do.” Quinn laid Alex carefully in his cot and followed Gabe into the kitchen.
Emma was already seated at the table, eyeing the sandwiches. “I want that one,” she said, pointing to a ham and tomato sandwich.
“Made it just for you,” Gabe replied cheekily. “How do you both feel about spending Christmas in Berwick this year? My mum is ready to sell the house, so it will be our last Christmas in the family home.”
