Page 81 of Atticus Arnott's Great Adventure
‘Is it true?’ Caitlin asked.
Mary sighed. Trying to assure Caitlin that all was well seemed pointless. Telling her that Dad just needed a bit of time out while he sorted through his work problems wouldn’t wash with her eldest child. The real problem wasthe state of their marriage, and Caitlin was astute enough to know that something was wrong and things amiss – parents in separate bedrooms, tiptoeing around each other.
‘Your dad is going through a difficult time,’ Mary began. She gently rubbed Caitlin’s hand with her thumb, hoping to comfort her. ‘He’s not sure what he wants at the moment, so I’m giving him a bit of space.’
‘You mean like he’s having a mid-life crisis?’
Mary searched Caitlin’s anxious eyes. Her brain was racing, searching for ways to soften the blow that Conor was a selfish, arrogant, greedy rat who seemed to have forgotten his vows and respect for his family.
‘I guess you could call it that.’ Mary smiled. ‘He’s just a bit confused and needs some time to think about his life, the business, and what he ultimately wants.’
‘Is he having an affair with Lucinda Darby?’
Mary stared at her daughter and felt guilty. She was angry with Conor for his betrayal and for putting her in this position. She knew Caitlin would be torn with love for both parents and unsure of where her loyalties should lie. Mary was filled with a desire to protect the children but knew that she had to explain the situation to Caitlin in a way that was as gentle and age appropriate as possible.
‘Truthfully, yes, I think heisspending time with Lucinda,’ Mary said.
‘But what about us?’ Caitlin’s face crumpled. ‘Does it mean he doesn’t love us anymore?’
Tears were in her eyes, and Mary reached out to wrap her daughter in her arms.
‘Oh, my darling, of course not,’ she said, kissing the topof Caitlin’s head and gently stroking her hair. ‘Your daddy loves you all, and he always will – even if he decides that he might not live with us all the time.’
Caitlin sniffed. ‘He’s horrible, and not good enough for you!’ She suddenly sat upright and pushed back on her stool.
‘Sweetheart, I understand that you are angry. It’s perfectly acceptable for you to feel that way if things at home are changing.’
As she held onto Caitlin’s hands, Mary remembered Ruari’s words: the kids would be better off with one happy parent than two who didn’t like each other.
‘If Dad and I decide to live separately, you will have two great homes to grow up in,’ Mary said. ‘You and your sister and brothers will always be our priority.’
‘It’s okay, I get it.’ Caitlin shrugged. ‘Aisling Bryne’s parent split up last year, and she told me all about it.’
‘Is she alright?’ Mary’s voice was soft.
‘Yeah, she’s spoiled rotten now. She says they overcompensate, but she loves it. If this is best for both of you, we’ll figure out how to adjust.’
‘You’re being very grown up, and that means a lot to me,’ Mary said. But as she spoke, she noticed that Caitlin suddenly looked down and a child-like pout had appeared.
‘Has Lucinda got a swimming pool?’ Caitlin asked.
‘Indoor and out… and tennis courts,’ Mary added.
‘She’s still a stick-thin witch.’ Caitlin raised her head.
‘I can’t deny that.’ Mary shrugged, deciding she’d gone over the top by turning Conor into a saint for his kids. However, there was no reason to protect theevil Lucinda.
‘Dad must be crazy. You’re beautiful.’ Caitlin threw herself into Mary’s arms.
Mary returned the hug and remembered Ruari telling her she was beautiful, too.
‘I want you to be brave,’ Mary said, taking hold of Caitlin’s shoulders and looking her in the eye. ‘Things might not be easy, but we will get through this, and everything will be fine.’
Caitlin nodded, reaching for her discarded plate. ‘I just want you to be happy, even if that means not being together.’ She picked up a cold French fry and began to nibble. ‘Can I go watch a movie now?’ she asked.
‘Of course, you can,’ Mary nodded. ‘I love you, Caitlin Murphy.’
‘And I love you too.’ Caitlin kissed Mary on the cheek, then slipped off her stool and hurried out of the kitchen.
