“Were you stopping in to check up on me?” I smile to let him know I’m not offended.

Will grins. “Actually, yes and no. I found out some exciting news and wanted to share it with you, plus I wanted to check how you were doing.”

“Well as you can see, I’m fine.”

Will raises his eyebrows. “You’re not just putting on the Trish bravado, then?”

Maybe I had fewer people fooled than I thought. “No, I’m not.”

“Good. So can I tell you my big news?”

“Of course.”

We sit down side by side on the bottom porch step.

“You know how I ended up being taken on full-time by that landscaping company I was doing contract work for?”

I nod, remembering how relieved Will was to be offered a more stable income.

“Well, I’m buying the business.”

“What?”

“The guy who’s been running the business wants to move South to be closer to his wife’s parents now they’re expecting a second baby. He’s selling. To me.” Will puffs out his chest proudly.

“That’s fantastic.” I throw my arms around him. “I’m very happy for you, Will.”

“Thanks. No more clean and clear for me. Now, I’ll be in charge of the fun stuff, like design and maintenance. Actually, I wondered if maybe you might be interested in helping me out?”

“Me?”

“I haven’t a clue what’s involved in running a business. You’re the brains in that department. Plus, I expect you know more about plants than me. Maybe you’d consider… I don’t know… joining me?”

“How do you mean?”

“Well, we could be business partners – or not,” he says quickly. “I’m not asking because I need you to be involved financially or anything. I’d just… well, I thought it might be something you could be interested in, but there’s no pressure and I wouldn’t be taking over for a few months yet.” His cheeks are flushed and he shuffles his feet, clearly embarrassed.

“Will.” I put a hand on his shoulder. “Congratulations. It’s wonderful news. And thank you for asking me to be involved. Can I have some time to think about it?”

“Of course.”

A faint cry comes from the baby monitor.

“I’d better get Rose,” I say, hurrying into the house. “Stay for a cuppa?”

“Sure,” says Will, following me inside. “I’ll put the kettle on.”

*

Mum arrives with a large suitcase shortly after Will leaves. I show her to her room and try to act relaxed, even though we’re both nervous as hell.

“Sorry it’s a little cramped,” I say, holding Rose on one shoulder and patting her back, waiting for her post-feed burp.

“It’s perfectly fine,” says Mum, avoiding my eye.

“OK, well, I’ll leave you to settle in.”

“I thought I’d go to the supermarket for a few things.”