Alice's Asylum

Chapter Twenty-One

We drove for ages. I knew where we were going but it was still a bit of a drive to get there. When we finally did, I knew that everyone was relieved.

"I think it's best that you both stay here. I need to have a word with someone." I told them both. Mary didn't respond but Doctor Walker nodded.

I got out of the car and tried the door handle. It was unlocked.

"Jonathon?" I heard Tessie call. I walked into the kitchen. My three year old nephew was sitting on the kitchen floor tiles, playing with some toy blocks. A small baby girl was asleep in a baby cradle chair. She had a pink blanket covering her legs and a corner was clenched in her small fist. Tessie was by the kitchen sink, apron tied around her and a soapy wet plate in one hand with a scrubbing brush in the other. She spun round to see me and the plate fell back into the soapy water of the sink.

"Jasper!" She squealed.

"And you didn't call because...?" I gestured down to the baby.

"I'm so sorry Jasper! I was so tied up... I completely forgot! But you're here now." She smiled at me.

"I am but sis, I need some help." She frowned.

"With what?"

"I need some cash. Fast."

"Don't you have your card?" I shook my head.

"Mom needed it this morning and I need to leave now." Tessie frowned, taking a towel off the side of the sink and drying her hands.

"What's happened, Jasper?"

"I can't say. Please trust me?" It was then that Tessie chose to look out the kitchen window and spotted my car with two passengers. She groaned and turned back to me.

"What have you done?"

"Sis! I don't have enough time to discuss the ins and outs of everything I do. Just please! I need the cash now!"

"You'll pay me back?" Tessie asked. I nodded.

"You know I will." She left the room. I crouched down beside the baby. Rosa didn't wake. George completely ignored me, muttering to himself as he played with his toys.

When she came back into the room, she had a brown envelope in her hand.

"How much?" I asked, quietly.

"Enough. And for God's sake Jasper, I hope you're doing what's right." I took the money and kissed her cheek.

"I won't ever forget this Tessie." Tessie came to the door and watched as I got back in the car. I put the money in Doctor Walker's lap and we drove off, my sister watching until we had faded into the distance.