Page 11 of Christmas at Hollybush Farm
‘Diolch, thank you, Myfanwy. This means a lot. I know you and Dad have had your differences.’
‘I’d like to think the old fool would be there if I needed him. Not that I intend to be in that situation.’ She sniffs and pushes her clasped hands up under her bosom. ‘Now, who have you got to look after the flock?’
‘I …’
‘You could ask that Owen chap to come back. He seemed to know how things run.’ Matthew nudges me.
Myfanwy nods her approval.
‘Actually,’ l lift my chin, ‘Dad may have someone else in mind. I’ll be here to do it until things are more sorted.’
Matthew frowns. ‘But we have to get back, Jem.There’s a lot to organize. It’s our busiest time of the year.’
I lower my voice and say calmly, ‘I can’t leave yet, Matthew. Dad is coming out of hospital. There’s the farm to see to.’ Then, a little louder with a smile, ‘You go. I’ll catch you up. I’ll let head office know I’m staying on for a few days. Compassionate leave. About time I took some of the advice I hand out to staff.’
‘But you’ve spoken to the nurse. And Owen could help out,’ he says, and I know he’s frustrated and itching to get back.
‘Not if there isn’t enough money to pay him, he can’t,’ I say quietly. ‘Everyone needs to make a living. He can’t work for nothing.’
Matthew looks at me as if I’ve lost my mind. ‘But it’s only just over a month until Christmas.’
‘I’ll be back as soon as I can,’ I snap, wishing I hadn’t in front of Myfanwy, who doesn’t seem to be moving. ‘Like I say, I’ll let HR know I need some compassionate leave.’
I see him take a breath. ‘Well, don’t stay away too long. There’s a lot of people out there who’d kill for the job they’re offering you.’
I feel myself flushing and glance at Myfanwy. ‘I know,’ I say quietly.
Myfanwy is studying me with interest, her head on one side.
‘But today,’ I lift my voice, ‘Dad is coming homefrom hospital. There are animals out there. A farm that needs running. Farmers don’t get days off. Dad can’t even get himself to the loo now, let alone run the farm single-handed.’
‘So, you mean it? You’re going to stay on and run the farm?’
I can hardly believe we’re having this conversation. ‘Yes, of course. I have to.’
‘But for how long?’
‘Just until Dad is on his feet. And this new guy is here to help out. You go back. I’ll get the train when things are sorted.’
‘When will that be?’
I laugh. ‘Matthew, I have no idea. He isn’t even home yet!’
‘But you’ll be back for the Christmas gala dinners and then New Year?’
‘Of course! Keep me in the loop!’
‘And you’ll be okay, will you? On your own? I mean, I would offer to stay …’
‘I’ll be fine,’ I say. ‘I’ve done this before. I may be a bit rusty, but I’m sure I’ll remember how it all works soon enough. And I can always ask Owen if I can’t.’
‘Owen, yes … Your ex, according to the man in the pub last night.’
‘It was a long time ago. He’s settled with children now. Really, there’s nothing between me and Owen.’ I mean it. We were close as youngsters and it waslovely to see his familiar face, but there was no leap of excitement. I didn’t wonder if he was the one who got away. He wasn’t.
I can still feel Myfanwy staring at us, as if she’s watching an episode ofEastEnders. I look around the kitchen. ‘This place could do with cleaning. And I need to get some food sorted. And check what time I can collect Dad.’
‘Okay.’ He picks up the weekend bag he’s brought from upstairs, ready to leave as soon as he can. ‘What will you do for a car?’
