The journey to the house had been made in an uncomfortable silence. Janet had made her 'digs' and was content to let Me stew, reaching the house Janet quickly left me stood in the hallway of my family home.
Looking all around I felt torn, this was my family home, my father had left it to me with the stipulation that Janet and Abigail could live there as long as they wished to, or until they married and moved on, so Janet remained here as mistress of the house, whilst I managed the estate remotely through the staff, so far the estate had kept itself without too much input, i received monthly updates from the estate manager and my accountant but did not need to be here for it all to run smoothly.
I laughed quietly and sadly to myself, i couldn't return, i had made a deal with the devil and could not break it by returning home.
If only the devil knew I was here, still i would be gone before he found out and I'm only visiting not staying so it shouldn't count.
Sounds coming from the back of the hall had me turning as Mrs Peel came through the doors from the kitchen wing, on seeing me she rushed forward to gather me into a warm hug
I hugged her back, feeling a real welcome home, Mrs Peel had been housekeeper here since I was a baby and had been a constant friend and guide to me growing up.
"Let me look at you", Mrs Peel had been one of the few people 5 years ago that had supported my decision to leave England and start fresh elsewhere, she had taken my side without knowing all the facts, helping me deal with my father who had been violently against me leaving, he had been egged on by Janet who saw a way to cause me trouble. I knew if Janet could she would get rid of Mrs Peel and was glad at least i could stop that.
"Are you staying long Tara, its good to see you back where you belong." She asked.
"Only today" I replied smiling sadly at Mrs Peel's expression.
"Then we need to make the most of it" she said.
Giving Mrs Peel another hug and seeking to change the subject I asked if there was anything I could do to help.
"No child its all in hand the caterers are doing everything, but lets go grab a coffee and you can tell me about France and your flying job, we have an hour before we need to be leaving for the church"
YOU ARE READING
Back At Their Side (completed)
RomanceFive years ago Tara ran from everything she knew , family, friends and them, she made a deal with them to give her space until she was ready to return. Over the years she was out of the country, she recognised both the desire to prove she could now...
