The Pledge Chapter 7a

“I'm of the opinion that we do, but I'll give you the benefit of the doubt.” Robert said and Jack let out a sigh of relief. “Oh one more thing Jack.”

“Yes?”

“Your new girlfriend isn't a substitute mother for Alex. Don't cut my daughter out of the picture when it comes to Alex.”

“I beg your pardon?” Jack's usually very mild temper rocketed. How the hell did he know? What the hell did he know? How dare he try and order his life like that? “My private life, and how I conduct it, is none of your business, Robert! The time I had with your daughter as my wife was fantastic and no one, not anyone, can take that away from me and Alex. Something like that isn't replacable so don't dare suggest to me that it is. Do you understand me?” Jack said darkly. “And while we're on the subject, how did you know I had a girlfriend? I only knew I had a girlfriend last night!”

“We know people in that area, Jack. You knew that when you moved there.” Robert replied.

“So what were these people that you know doing? Looking through my window?” Jack asked angrily.

“Ziggy Rigby isn't exactly a run of the mill member of society, is she Jack?” Robert said testily.

“You ... you know her?” Jack said in disbelief.

“Know of her. She's a ... weirdo Jack! I'm thinking of Alex.” Robert said and Jack could tell even down the phone that he was playing a sympathy card.

“I always think of Alex! Ziggy Rigby is no weirdo. She's a fantastic lady and both Alex and me think a great deal of her. Do you honestly think I'd introduce a bad influence to Alex? Come on, Robert, you know me better than that.” Jack snapped.

“You, yes. Her, no. Remember Jack, she isn't a factor in all this, she isn't Alex's mother.” Robert lectured.

“Ah right.” Jack nodded. “I think I know where this is coming from. I think I know what's bugging you. Robert I promise you that Ziggy would never assume she had the right to an opinion on access rights between you and Alex, absolutely not. For a start, I wouldn't even involve her in it, there's no need to.” Jack shook his head in disbelief. Was this a bloody conspiracy?

“I'd hope not. Have that talk with Alex after your guest leaves.” Robert said ominously.

“I don't have any ...” The doorbell rang and Jack looked at his watch. “Where the hell are you, Robert? Are you having my house watched?!” He shouted. “Get your nosey friends out of my business, Robert, I'm warning you. You'll have legalities until you're a hundred if you don't back off!” Jack threw down the receiver. “You old bastard!”

“Dad?” Alex was peeping round the door.

“You knock first!” Jack snapped. “Shit! I'm sorry Alex. I didn't mean to yell, Slogger. Come here.” Alex ran over to his dad.

“You weren't grumpy before.” He said warily.

“No and I shouldn't be grumpy now, not with you especially.” Jack ruffled his son's red hair and smiled. “Sorry.”

“Ziggy's here. Don't get grumpy with her, she can swear better than you.” Alex said seriously and Jack burst out laughing.