The sound of a vehicle drew closer. Perhaps it was Dan, although she thought he’d still be reaping. Quickly she looked around and made for the door into the little room off the back verandah clutching her gift. She had always ensured Dan had something to open on his birthday. Her brother Daniel had lost all interest in birthdays after his wife had died. But Rowena had always made sure there were parcels for Dan, even though it was a busy time of year. And she always insisted they eat breakfast together and open his presents. Her hand tightened around the door handle. This would be the first year she wouldn’t be doing that.

She drew in a breath and pushed open the door to the room that Paula had turned into an office. It was really only part of the enclosed verandah with a cement floor and unlined walls but Paula had worked wonders. There were curtains at the louvre windows, a big mat covered part of the rough floor, a couple of prints hung on one wall and a large pinboard hung over the desk at the other end.

The whole back section needed pulling down and rebuilding but Paula had managed to make the room cosy and usable. Rowena had to give the young woman credit. She certainly had good taste and skills at decorating.

Rowena’s gaze fell on the filing cabinet. Dan hadn’t been able to find anything from the lawyer regarding the loan. She had an appointment with Glen next week but perhaps if she looked she might find it.

Light footsteps approached the outer door. Rowena glanced from the cabinet to the door. She spun, put her parcel on the floor and stepped out of the office as Paula poked her head around the door.

“Oh!” Paula put her hand to her chest. “Rowena, you startled me.”

“I didn’t think anyone was home. I was just…”

“I was out delivering Dan’s lunch.”

“It’s a late lunch.” Rowena still worried that Paula didn’t understand what it took to look after Dan properly but she had been trying to give them space and not interfere.

“Yes.” Paula bent to pull off her boots. “I’ve been busy learning to make pasties at Dara’s this morning.”

“I could have helped you with that.” Paula dashed into town far too often for food. “Sausage rolls are my forte but I can make a reasonable pastie. It’s much easier with the food processor to chop the vegetables...”

“Dara prefers the old-fashioned mincer.” Paula looked past Rowena towards the office door. “Was there something you wanted?”