Page 99 of Be More Capybara

EPILOGUE - JUNE 2024

HELEN

Helen walked into the Grange’s kitchen. ‘Where is everyone? It’s never this quiet.’

Nigel followed her. ‘I guess they’re all out. They’ll be back soon for your party.’

‘I still don’t understand why we couldn’t have had it at our house.’

‘I love the cottage but it’s a too cosy to cram everyone in.’

‘But we did it for your birthday.’

‘The weather wasn’t as good then. I thought we should take advantage of the garden as it’s a beautiful day.’

‘I suppose so. What is that?’ she asked as Nigel pulled a piece of black fabric from his trouser pocket.

‘A blindfold.’

‘How come you own a blindfold?’

He chuckled. ‘Don’t ask.’ He walked behind her. ‘Can I?’

‘Why?’

‘I’ve got a surprise lined up for you.’

‘What are you up to? I’m not sure I like this.’

‘I’m not going to let anything bad happen. You trust me, don’t you?

‘I guess. You know I’m not good with surprises.’

‘You’re not good with anything where you’re not in complete control, but I promise you’ll be fine with this.’

‘Go on then.’

He tied the blindfold tightly over her eyes.

‘This better be worth it, Nigel Farnham.’

He put her arm through his. ‘Come outside with me.’

Nigel slowly led her out of the back door and onto the terrace.

‘We’ve reached the steps that go down onto the lawn,’ he said.

‘I can’t remember how many there are.’

He slipped his arm around her waist, presumably for extra support. ‘I’ll tell you when we get to the bottom. Ready?’

‘Okay. Where’s Rocky gone?’

‘He’s safe in the boot room. I didn’t want him tripping us over.’

‘Oh Nige! He won’t be happy in there.’

‘He was lying calmly on the mat when I left him. I’ll fetch him in a minute so he doesn’t miss the fun. Last step now.’