Wolfie in the Middle (Unfinished)

Chapter 6

That's Camelia Ryan and the actress Elizabeth Mitchell >>>>

Richard unlocked the front door of his home – our home – and stepped inside, my sports bag in hand.Cam’s content sigh entered my ear and relaxed me a little. She seemed happy and a little restless. It was tiring to be around but I put up with it because it kept me happy and my spirits up.

 I took my time getting used to the place. Gazing up at the walls I was met by a dozen lifeless animal eyes. Moose, deer, stags and fish all stared at me and no matter where I moved in the room, they would follow me. It didn’t put me off the place, I was a born hunter after all but it didn’t ease the feeling of being followed either.

 Richard noticed me looking up at his souvenirs and smiled reassuringly.

 “Don’t worry, they don’t bite,” he joked. I cracked a smile for his sake. They wouldn’t bite, I would.

Camlaid a hand on my arm and led me into the kitchen.

 “Let’s talk,” she suggested.

I nodded reluctantly. I didn’t really want to but neither did I want to mope in my new bedroom. It wouldn’t even be mine. It was still Johnny’s, their son’s.

Richard switched the coffee machine on whileCamand I sat side by side at the wooden table in the centre of their minute kitchen. She rubbed a warm hand up and down my arm as we waited. I sat uncomfortably, waiting for the scrutiny of my life to start.

 Richard returned with three mugs of steaming coffee. He sat oppositeCamand blew on the liquid.

 “I hope you don’t think this is some sort of interview because it really isn’t. We want to know more about you Saskia and although this may not be the best way, we should get a few things cleared first.” Camexplained, warming her hands with her white ceramic mug. The words Farmer’s Wife were sprawled across it. They were farmers too?

 Camchuckled as she watched me eyeing her cup.

 “I thought it was quite clever so I bought it. We’re not exactly farmers but we do grow most of the vegetables we eat.”

I nodded in understanding but felt quite dazed. It had been a while since I had a proper conversation. Months in fact.

 “Why don’t we start by introducing ourselves? Properly this time,” Richard insisted.

He didn’t hesitate.

 “Camand I have been married for 24 years, ever since we both turned 21. It was the smartest decision I ever made in my life and I’ve haven’t regretted it since.”

Richard smiled atCamand grasped her hand. Richard carried on.

 “I took on my father’s profession which is hunting. It’s mostly rabbits and pheasants with the odd deer but it doesn’t bring much money after all, what year are we in?” Richard grinned at me andCamurged him on with a smile.

 “So I’m a police officer.”

 “A Chief police officer,”Camadded.

My eyes widened. I knew how hard it was to get to that position. Mom told me her brother used to be a police officer before he took another job on. He was the Uncle I had never met and probably never would.

 “It’s a hard job but I like it. It keeps me grounded and gives me a purpose. Besides, I’m great at handling guns.” Richard flashed another smile and laughed. The couple didn’t notice me gulp and avoid their gazes.