Chapter 13

Richard and Mary arrived at Helen’s house in good time for lunch. The first thing they noticed was Tony Wren’s car on the drive.

Mary exclaimed: ‘So that’s what my mother meant when she said “We will see you at about twelve o’clock”.’

Helen greeted Richard and Mary warmly and said: ‘The weather you had on your honeymoon was marvellous.’

‘Yes’ replied Mary ‘and I can’t think of a nicer place than where we stayed. The hotel was spot on and I was surprised by the beauty of so many parts of the Isle of Wight. We will certainly return one day.’

‘Good’ said Helen, ‘now who would like a sherry before lunch?’ To which everyone agreed would be very nice. As usual Helen’s cuisine was up to scratch and they all enjoyed the meal. During lunch there was considerable discussion about the wedding and how well it turned out. After the meal Helen and Mary cleared the table whilst Richard and Tony adjourned to the lounge.

During the washing up, Mary said to her mother ‘I think it is wonderful that you and Tony are such good friends and I think companionship can be quite lovely at your age.’

‘I think you ought to know that my relationship with Tony has gone far beyond good friends.’

‘Really I had no idea. I am, however, pleased for you. So, Mum, where do you go from here?’

‘Well, we are not yet living together but we have discussed it. The problem is we both have very nice houses which neither of us wants to give up. So we are considering the possibility of finding somewhere else.’

‘Well Mum, just keep me posted.’

Later Richard and Mary left for home. After a few minutes Mary said to Richard: ‘Have I got news for you.’