Page 153 - My Home on the Earth

possible that Melanie could be here on holiday and is staying with her sister.’
Alice leant back in her chair and was left speechless. The silence in the garden was tangible apart from two noisy seagulls in the sky and Freddie, sitting on Pete’s lap, squealing at a toy rabbit.
‘I don’t believe it! Why didn’t any of you tell me?’ said Emily, looking around at the dumbstruck faces.
Steve scratched his head. ‘We don’t know why she is here or why her son, Jake, is wandering around Rauston alone. Liam and I have been searching for him for ages.’
Emily’s face dropped. ‘He’s here? When was he released? Where’s his father? Is he here too?’ asked Emily, pleading for an answer.
‘That’s what we all want to know,’ said Steve. ‘This isn’t a police matter, Emily, although I did make a report in case it became one.’
‘Report! I don’t understand what you’re getting at, Steve. People are allowed to go on holiday. Are you suggesting they are here for another reason?’
Alice was in an uncomfortable position. To know that she had secret knowledge made her feel mean. She told Emily everything that had happened, what the girls had seen and done, and what she and Marjorie did.
‘So, everyone and his dog knew about this, bar me. Thanks, Mum!’ snapped Emily, standing up and taking Freddie from Pete’s arms. ‘Take me home, Steve. Elise! Come on, we’ll eat at home.’
‘No you won’t, young lady. You sit where you are! I am
147