Rose had enjoyed a relaxing afternoon sitting on the wooden viewing deck outside the drawing room at Aureus Lodge.
She’d emailed her daughter Heather in the UK and updated her with Chris’s performance in the marathon. She’d also added some titbits about the other competitors who Heather knew. She sighed contentedly and began to flick through a book about the Laikipia Plateau which contained some stunning photographs.
It had been fantastic to see so many people taking part in the marathon, and all the money they raised for wildlife conservation, via the Tusk Trust and Lewa Conservancy. Chris had seemed relaxed and happy with his friends, although she was still concerned that his relationship with Craig remained fragile.
And then there was poor Chloe, who she knew had been trying to accommodate her husband Dan, and do the things he wanted when he was back home from his work in northern Kenya. But he’d been completely dismissive of Chloe at the finish of the marathon. She worried that there was trouble ahead in that marriage.
“There you are, my dear,” cried Craig who looked refreshed after his afternoon rest. He turned towards Thabiti, who was pushing his wheelchair. “And thank you for helping me.”
Thabiti looked down at handles of the wheelchair, which he began to fiddle with. “No problem.” He quickly glanced up at Rose. “Marina told me to ask you if you’d like tea, or if you’d prefer something stronger?”
“I’d love a Tusker whilst I enjoy this stunning view,” declared Craig.
“Some tea would be lovely,” Rose said, smiling at Thabiti.
Thabiti left and Craig asked, “Would you mind moving me so I’m a little closer to the rail?”
“Of course.”
Rose repositioned Craig, and as she did so, she caught a movement out of the corner of her eye. She looked up as Nina walked out of a room beyond the dining room and settled herself into a chair on a small balcony. She had her back to Rose and still wore the floppy hat with the bright red bow. Robert came out, bent over her and then returned inside.
As Rose returned to her seat, Thabiti appeared with Craig’s beer. He was accompanied by a member of the lodge staff with a tray containing Rose’s tea.
Robert followed them and announced, “Nina’s tired and won’t be joining us for supper tonight.” He looked down at the tray. “Do you mind if I take her a cup of tea?”
“I can do that,” said the member of staff.
Robert waved at him dismissively. “No need. I’ll do it. She’d prefer not to be disturbed.”
Rose pushed the tray of tea things towards Robert. “I do hope she’s all right. Take these to her and tell her that if she wants any company, I’d be happy to sit with her.”
“I’m sure there’s no need for that,” Robert answered sharply. “She just wants some tea.” He picked up the tray and left.
“How very rude,” commented Craig. “I’m not entirely surprised his wife wants some time to herself.”
Thabiti shifted from one foot to another. “I’ll go and tell Marina we are one less for supper. And I’ll organise some more tea for you, Mama Rose.”
Rose heard Robert say, “Here’s your tea.” She turned and watched him place the tray on a table on the balcony, before returning once more to his room.