As soon as he’d left she let out the breath she’d been holding and gripped the bench with both hands. She’d was in such a state she’d nearly told him about the will. Rowena sucked in a long slow breath. She had to remain calm for a little longer until the Crawfords left then she could curl up on the couch and rest her pounding head. Dan had asked her to give him time to think but that time was rapidly running out.

Chapter 35

CHAPTER

35

“I never thought I’d admit this,” Paula said, “but after a few hours shopping I am exhausted.”

“That’s pregnancy for you.” Susan smiled. “It saps your staying power.”

They were sitting around a table under the leafy walkway of a suburban shopping arcade, finishing their coffee. Piped music played in the background and nearby children chattered excitedly around a water play fountain.

“I hope we haven’t worn you out, darling.” Diane reached over and patted Paula’s hand. “You shouldn’t drive home if you are too tired. Take up Dan’s suggestion and stay on another day.”

“We’ll see,” Paula said. She did have a few more jobs to do, things that were easier done on her own. They still hadn’t bought a wedding gift and Paula was keen to find another outfit, something much looser and cooler than what she had. Dan had said before they’d left home this morning that she should stay in the city for a day or two. She’d thrown in an overnight bag just in case.

“You’ve worn Rupert out anyway,” Rex said.

Paula peeped into the stroller at her nephew sleeping peacefully. A little lock of damp hair curled around his ear and onto his soft cheek. “I’m going to miss him.”

“Oh, dear.” Diane had tears in her eyes. “We’re going to miss you.”

Paula struggled to hold back her own tears. The week had flown by so quickly. She’d driven to Adelaide this morning with Susan as her passenger and their parents and Rupert had followed in the hire car. They’d had a lovely day together, sightseeing and shopping, and it was nearly time for her visitors to leave for the airport.

“Anything else you need for the baby before we go?” Susan said. “I can be your gofer while you rest up. I don’t very often get the chance to pamper my baby sister.”

“I don’t recall you ever wanting to once she was able to walk.” Rex had a wry smile on his face.

Paula smiled too. She and Susan had often been at loggerheads in their teenage years. Once they left school they’d both been busy with their work and their partners. Alison had always been the sister Paula felt closest to and confided in. Having Susan stay had been a lot more fun than Paula had expected.