Shattered Perfection

Thirty Three

TW Bit more spice - let me know if you'd like more or less, it's my first go at writing it.

Marjorie walked into the office the next morning. Autumn was already in situ at her desk typing.

'Morning Marjorie,' she said softly.

'Morning my love,' Marjorie replied. 'How are you and Winter after everything this week?'

Autumn sighed.

'Unfortunately, the actions of my father were not unexpected. His aggression, love of power and money were well known. We did not, however, know about the drugs. Mia had an inkling and we had vague memories from childhood but still, the extent of his involvement is surprising.'

Marjorie sat down at her desk. 'I knew he loved money. It's only recently I realised what he was doing to Siobhan. I wish we could have known sooner.'

'Marjorie, we tried to warn her but she wouldn't listen.'

Marjorie thought for a while. 'What about Janice?'

'What about her?' Autumn raised her eyebrow.

'What did you know about her?'

'Only that she was a widow. She was always on the periphery, but never in the spotlight. I suppose that's the way she operated.'

Just then Reece walked in carrying the coffee, 'here you go gorgeous,' he said handing it over.

'Thank you love,' she smiled at him.

'And for you,' he handed the other one to a surprised Autumn.

'Why?' she asked.

'I think it's pronounced thank you, but never mind.' He said. Then looked more serious. 'Aut, I've been thinking about the last week. We could have lost colleagues and friends. You could have been hurt. I'm just glad you and Winter are ok.' He shrugged. Autumn walked towards him. Reece flinched expecting a kick to the shins at the very least. She put her arms round him and gave him a brief hug. He grinned at her. Then she kicked him.

'Love you too.' He said rubbing the bruise.

Late morning, Mia walked into the office. She was meeting Char for lunch. She moved stiffly, her broken ribs still distinctly uncomfortable. She wasn't going to admit that they were hurting her. The cut on her forehead was healing but she was still feeling the effects of the concussion. She'd taken a taxi to the nursery as she wasn't allowed to drive for a while which made her pretty grumpy.

'Hey Mia,' Said Marjorie, 'how are you?'

'Fine.' Snapped Mia, 'broken ribs rubbing on each other is pain free and I just love taking a taxi while my gorgeous car stays on the driveway.'

Marjorie blinked after the tirade, 'wow.' She said quietly. Mia sat down with a huff. Charlotte came into the office having heard the tail end of what Mia had said.

'Amelia!' she exclaimed.

'Oh hey baby,' Mia plastered a smile on her face.

'I heard you Mia.' Charlotte said with a frown. 'You shouldn't be here, you should be resting at home until you felt better.'

Mia pouted. 'I didn't want to stay there by myself.' Charlotte rolled her eyes.

'Have you at least taken some pain relief?' she asked. Mia looked guilty.

'They make me sleepy.'

'Amelia!' Charlotte exclaimed exasperated. She searched around in her handbag, pulling out some painkillers. 'Here, take these.'