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“It’s not your place to apologise,” I say, leaning forward and squeezing her hand.
“No, but it’s my fault he is the way he is.”
I look up and lock gazes with the young girl in front of me.
“I don’t think—” It’s clear Elijah loves his daughter.
Where has she got this notion from?
“It is. He wouldn’t have married my mum if I’d never been born.”
“I don’t know what goes on between your mum and dad, but Lottie, it’s clear how much your dad loves you,” I say.
Lottie nods, biting her bottom lip.
“I love my mum, but I wish he’d divorce her as he’s never happy,” she suddenly spits out. “They constantly argue.” I move in front of her only to have her wrap her arms around my neck, her wracking sobs shaking her body.
“Have you spoken to your dad about it?” I ask, not wanting to get between Elijah, Darra or their daughter.
Having yet to meet Darra, I can’t make a judgement.
“I have, but he tells me it’s complicated, and I’m too young to understand.”
“Adult relationships are complicated,” I say.
“Like yours and Uncle Gabriel’s?” she asks, pulling back and staring at me.
“Especially mine and your Uncle Gabriel’s.”
I sigh, giving her a small smile.
“Are you really having a baby?”
I stare at her in surprise. She’d left by the time I mentioned I was pregnant.
“I was outside the door. I heard what you said.” Her cheeks ablaze with colour.
I smile and pat her hand. “It’s very early days. Too early really to have told anyone... but yes. I’m pregnant.”
A smile breaks out on Lottie’s face. “I’m going to have a cousin,” she says excitedly.
“I suppose you are.” I smile at her.
“Can I babysit?” Her sudden excitement is palpable. The tears of a few moments ago are forgotten.
“That would be wonderful,” I say. “I know I’ll appreciate all the help I can get.”
“Lottie?” A voice comes out of nowhere.
“I’m here, Dad,” Lottie calls, wiping her face on her sleeve.
“You look fine,” I reassure her.
“Thank you,” she says, moving to the door. “You can stay here as long as you want.”
“Thank you, Lottie. And if you ever want someone to talk to...” I know I’m playing with fire, I’m not exactly on her father’s most popular list.
“Lottie?” The voice is getting closer, so she nods and pushes her way out of the door.
