Island Girl Book 2

Leaving

Teresa couldn't hide the expression of surprise when her young employee came through the door of the bakery that afternoon

"Hello Alison, I wasn't expecting to see you today of all days, I imagined you would be too occupied with other things, than have the time to pay me a visit" she greeted her.

Alison smiled as she walked over to stand at the other side of the shop counter, glad to see the bakery was free from customers, "Actually, this is not exactly a social call if you must know," she informed her, "something has come up, and I needed to talk to you about it"

"Oh, is everything alright?" Teresa enquired looking concerned

"Yes," Alison hurriedly replied, "I mean everything is going great between me and Paul," she then before pausing briefly before adding, "In fact its so great, that Paul has asked me to go back to London with him"

Teresa's hazel eyes widened at this, "I see, he doesn't waste time does he?" she finished wryly

"No," Alison gave a small laugh, "But we realise we really want to be together, and this seems the only way; though it won't a permanent move on my part. I am not ready for that yet, and I told him. So its just for a few weeks to see how it goes, like a trial run, as he put it" she then explained

"Ah," Teresa's expression relaxed a little, "Well in that case, I am glad you are not rushing into anything, And I guess it would be a good idea to see how you both get on in his environment and surroundings, just to be sure" she agreed thoughtfully

"Yes that's what I was thinking," Alison replied, glad that Teresa approved, "But the thing is , he wants me to go back with him on Monday morning when he is due to leave. He has a few weeks free before he has to go around promoting his new television series, which is due to air next month, so he wants to have that time with me"

"Well I guess that is understandable, even though it's a bit sudden for you, that only gives you tomorrow to get packed and ready." Teresa realised with a small frown.

"Exactly," Alison nodded, looking a little anxious now, "which is why I came to see you, to find out if it will be alright to go away at such short notice, I told Paul I couldn't go anywhere unless it was alright with you, and you could cope OK without me here for a few weeks."

Teresa smiled, "Well, I am certainly not going to be the one accused of standing in the way of true love" she replied, "Of course I can cope fine here for a few weeks without you, don't be worrying about it.. Actually I think it will do you the world of good to get away for a while for a wee break, after all that has happened lately."

"Are you sure its alright? Only with it being such short notice and everything, I don't want to be going off and leaving you , if you need me here" Alison said still looking a little anxious, because she feeling slightly guilty about the abrupt departure.

"Will you stop worrying about me, I told you I will manage fine," Teresa looked a little exasperated, "So you just go off now and start packing, and if you still don't belief me I will start packing your stuff myself," she warned, "Maybe that will finally convince you I really want you to go."

Alison laughed, "It's ok you don't have to go that far," she replied, "I just wanted to make sure it was ok with you, I just didn't want you thinking I was running off , and being irresponsible about my job and my obligations."

"You came to let me know, that's the most important part," Teresa reminded her, "so I don't think you being irresponsible in the least, now will stop fretting."

"Thank you Teresa," Alison said gratefully, "You don't know how much these means to me; and I promise I will keep in touch, and let you know what's happening."