Читать книгу Captivated By The Enigmatic Tycoon - Bella Bucannon - Страница 12

CHAPTER FIVE

CASSIE WASHED HER hands before following Jack into the lounge, where Mel was waiting with a pot of freshly brewed coffee. She heard him tease her for insisting they ate from the wrappers.

‘Fast food always tastes better this way. I have great memories of sitting on the beach, eating fish and chips from butcher’s paper and fighting off the seagulls.’

‘It was always fun, wasn’t it? We’ll do it again when the weather clears. Today it’s indoor chores.’

The tenderness in his voice, and the way his features softened with affection as he spoke to his great-aunt, caused a lump in her throat. Moments like the ones they referred to were a major part of her treasured memories.

She stared through the window, remembering the unconditional love she and Mum had shared, so much joy and few regrets. The past couldn’t be changed. Today was the time that mattered, and she had a task for Jack if he was willing.

‘I noticed some of the light fittings are dusty, Jack. Do you have the time to clean them?’

‘Checking lights comes under downsizing?’ A sceptical look accompanied his gentle dig.

‘Under due diligence and caring, a courtesy for clients. In your line of work, you should know most people don’t notice the grime until they have to replace the bulbs or tubes.’

‘True. Consider all the house fittings on my list.’

The three of them chatted about the house and garden as they ate, and Cassie learned how Bob had relished teaching the younger generation the tool and gardening crafts that Jack had turned into a profession. That his father had wanted him to study law and become his uncle’s partner didn’t surprise her; his telling her did.

Mel’s mobile rang, and she answered. ‘Well, you know I’d love to normally but at the moment...’

Cassie tapped her arm.

‘Hang on, Dot.’ Mel held the phone to her chest. ‘The Mortons have invited me to go with them and visit a friend in Murray Bridge for her birthday.’

‘Say yes.’

‘I can’t. It’s overnight and you’re here. We’ve got...’