The Pledge Chapter 1c

“Yes, I'm sure she could too.” Jack said sharply. Who on Earth was this having an opinion on Alex's childcare? “Pardon my saying, Ms Stark, But I don't actually need a reason to decline an invitation.”

“No, of course not. Forgive me.” Lavinia said graciously. “I meant that I do understand how difficult it is trying to get trusted child minders, especially when you're new to the area.”

“Well I've never had reason to try. Mrs Wilson suits our needs just fine. Do you have children?”

“Me? No.” Lavinia smiled. “As much as I adore them, I don't think my maternal streak is as capable as some of my fellow females.”

“They're OK if you can give them back.” Greg commented. “I hear you loud and clear, ma'am.”

“Ah you'll have a houseful soon, Greg.” Jack laughed.

“No chance. Yes, he'll go to dinner with you and your friends, Ms Stark. Don't take no for an answer. He's a recluse!” Greg sniffed.

“Greg, I have a lot of work to do, and I have to think of Alex too.”

“Bah! Even if Mrs Wilson isn't up for an evening shift, I am. I'm only staying a thirty minute drive away. Me and Alex can unpack some of your junk here.” Greg nodded.

“You really will be made very welcome.” Lavinia contributed.

“OK. I'd love to go.” Jack said eventually.

“Excellent!” Lavinia beamed. “We use the top room above the Sail Makers Arms. You know it?”

“I know where it is, yes.” Jack nodded.

“Splendid. I must be off. Goodnight to you Jack, and to you too, Mr Moore.” Jack let Lavinia out of the front door.

“Big mouth.” He said, returning to the sitting room.

“Oh get off.” Greg tutted. “I know you like your own company but get a life will you? So who was that? You sly dog.”

“I've no idea.” Jack shrugged. “Lavinia Stark, obviously. I've never seen her before. There again I haven't taken much notice of people outside of Alex's school teachers.”

“She seems like a nice lady.” Greg observed. “Classy too.”

“And so not my type, it's unreal.” Jack rolled his eyes. “Pack it in, cupid. So you babysitting? I know Mrs Wilson wouldn't mind, but I also know she likes to get home to her other half at a decent time.”

“I'd love to. Me and Alex have a good laugh.” Greg said. “Seriously, Jack, you have a good job, great home and the best kid in the world, but you need adults. I mean ordinary friends, I'm not trying to get you fixed up.”

“I know, you're right.” Jack sighed. “I don't want you thinking I'm sitting moping though, because I'm not. I got passed the moping stage months ago. There's just so much to do here and I don't know what to concentrate on first.” Jack laughed.

“I know you aren't moping.” Greg stood up and reached for his coat, Jack opened the sitting room door.

“Give my best to Hilary.” He opened the front door too and peered out into the pouring rain. “Ugh, it's pissing down.”

“I'm only parked up the street.” Greg pulled up his collar. “I'll give you a call tomorrow.” He hurried off down the road. Jack went to close the door, then opened it again. A young woman was standing on the opposite side of the street looking straight at him, or at the front door at least. Her head was uncovered and her long, flat hair clung to her face and denim jacket as the ran soaked through it. She pushed a sodden clump of it behind her ear, then walked off in the opposite direction to Greg. Jack shrugged his shoulders and closed the door.