“The other night was an ordeal for you, wasn’t it? You’re the one who probably wants to end it because this situation is so complicated and messy.”

“End it?” She was croaky. “What makes you think I want to end it?” She held the picture away from him so he didn’t crumple it more than he had already. She’d iron it before she framed it.

“Ours will never be a simple relationship. And maybe I should let you go, but I’m not that selfless.”

“Good.” Her insides flipped over as she thought what might have happened if she’d spoken up sooner. “I wouldn’t know what to do with a simple relationship. Give me an emotional mess any day.”

He made a sound that was half laugh, half groan. “I don’t want this to stop, Flora.” He cupped her face in his hands. “Being with you makes me smile, and I didn’t think I’d ever want to smile again. You make me happy. I like to think I make you happy, too.”

“You do.” It was the happiest she’d ever been in her life. Her thoughts floated to a place she’d never allowed them to go before. Surely, feeling this way, there was no problem that together they couldn’t overcome?

Molly had colored in the picture. Molly wanted her to hang it on her wall.

And now the only thought in her head was We’ll make this work. Somehow, we’ll make this work.

True, there was still Izzy to worry about but a teenager was bound to be more complex than a younger child and no one built a relationship in one meeting. It was going to take time, and Flora was willing to put in whatever time was necessary.

Jack didn’t seem to think there was a problem, and he knew his own child better than she did. Didn’t he?

6

Izzy

“She’s late.” Izzy checked the soufflé. It had been her mother’s dinner party showpiece and it was Molly’s favorite, but it wasn’t a dish that forgave late arrivals. Why had she picked something so complicated? Because hopefully soufflé was something the saintly Flora couldn’t cook. Intimidation by soufflé. “What time did you tell her?”

“Midday. And she has today off, so I’m sure she’ll be here any minute. Smells delicious, Izz. What can I do to help?”

Break up with her and focus on the family.

She glanced at her father. “You could call her. Check what time she’ll be here? Maybe she’s one of those people who is relaxed about timing.” And she knew her father liked people to be where they said they were going to be, when they said they’d be there.

“Call her, Dad.” Make her feel bad.