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The front door opened and swung heavily upon its hinges. The familiar squeaking sound alerted both Kady and Jevon instantly. "Hello?" could be heard drifting upstairs. "Where are you both?"
Kady looked at her uncle, in a blind panic. She knew the arrival of her Mother would end the reading for the day. As the reality sank in, her emotions turned to anger. She punched the bedding in frustration. "No, not now Mother!"
Jevon understood her frustration. "You mustn’t tell your Mother about any of this; she wouldn't understand. She'll think that I'm filling your head with a lot of dangerous nonsense. If you want to hear more, you have to keep this quiet. You hear me?"
Kady nodded in disappointment. The door to her room opened gently. "Oh hi," said Jevon, feigning surprise.
"And what are you two up to?" she asked, in an annoying way.
"Uncle Jevon's been reading me a fairy story. It was good but I think we're done for today," Kady interjected.
"How are you feeling?" Christine ignored Jevon and felt Kady's forehead. It was a Motherly thing to do, as she perched upon the bed. Her body language signaled to Jevon that she was home now and in charge. Jevon folded the book closed, and rose as if to leave.
"Wait, thank you Jevon. I had a very good day and you made it possible. Thanks for looking after Kady, I really appreciate it."
"That's Okay, I enjoyed our day together." Jevon looked awkward and nervous.
"Me too, Uncle Jevon," chirped Kady in agreement.
"Mum, can I see uncle Jevon tomorrow, to finish the fairy story? We were close to the end and I kind of want to know how it finishes."
Christine looked at Jevon, as if she were weighing up her options. It was nice that he helped her out but he got the distinct feeling that she wouldn't want him spending more time with Kady. "Well, let's see honey. Your Uncle Jevon's a busy man, perhaps he can leave the book and I'll finish the story for you? How's that sound?"
Kady shot a panicked look at Jevon; it was a plea for help. "I'm not comfortable with that. This is a rare and valuable book. It's the centerpiece of my collection. I don't want to leave it with anyone."
"I left you my Daughter, how more valuable can it get?" snapped Christine.
"Are you busy tomorrow Uncle Jevon?" Kady desperately wanted to find a solution.
"You might not be well enough young Lady." Christine perched upon the edge of the bed.
"I feel fine Mum, the fevers broke. Well, are you?" she insisted.
"I have a few spare hours in the afternoon, between 1pm and 4pm. If it's acceptable with your Mother, we can go to the park. It's supposed to be a nice day and the fresh air will do you good. We can pack a picnic lunch and I'll read you the rest of the story. Will that work?"
Jevon posed the question carefully. He knew Christine didn't trust him fully with her Daughter, but he'd done nothing to create such distrust. He'd acted admirably today, like a good Uncle should. She would have no reason to stop them spending some time together in a public place. Kady demanded a positive answer by the weight of her stare. "Okay, as long as you are fit enough tomorrow. I don't want you catching another chill. Pick her up at 1pm; I'll pack a picnic for the both of you. It works out well. I have to pop in on a listing during the afternoon anyway."
"Great, then I can find out how this story ends." Kady's excitement was palpable.
"But have her back by 4pm," warned Christine.
"Sure," reassured Jevon. "I'll leave you to it then." He rose and headed for the door.
Christine reached out her hand, "Thanks again Jevon," this time it sounded more sincere. Jevon touched her fingers lightly.
"No problem Sis', I wanted to help." He turned and left.
Kady and Christine were sat staring at each other in an uncomfortable silence. She could have asked her about her showings but she’d have been stuck with a long boring response. They both heard the front door close and footsteps on the gravel, as Jevon walked towards his car. The two ladies contemplated their feelings. Christine was coming down from a stressful day.
She was relieved that the showings went well, that Kady was safe and unharmed, and that Jevon had not let her down. Kady was flying high, trying to conceal her excitement. She was energized and stimulated; she'd have difficulty sleeping tonight. She wanted tomorrow to hurry up and arrive. She had to conceal this from her Mother.
They stared at each other in silence for a while. "Right, let me clear away some of this mess." Christine referred to the dishes and glasses used throughout the day. "You get ready for bed; the sleep will do you good." All Kady could think about was 1pm.
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