Chapter 24

Harry was almost right. No sooner had the Annette put the telephone down than Deborah flung herself into Richard's arms.

"Oh, darling, I'm so happy for them. After all this time. Eileen was right. Something happened after the accident and now they're obviously sleeping together. Finally, she's thrown off the effect of that bloody man."

"And has picked up a quite outstanding young man. I can't imagine any other one waiting so long and patiently as he has."

Deborah nodded against his chest. "And that shows, as we've always known, just how much he loves her."

"She was bubbling, wasn't she?"

Deborah nodded again. "I think this calls for a celebratory drink and a toast to them, don't you, darling."

"I do, my own darling. Let go of me and I'll go and fix it."

"I must tell Sharon," said Deborah releasing him.

She never made it. The telephone beat her to it. It was Mary.

"Isn't it wonderful, Deborah?" she cried. "I'm so thrilled for them both. At long last."

"Which says a very great deal for Harry," interrupted Deborah. "Richard has just said he couldn't imagine any other young man waiting so long. He's very special, Mary, and you and Ned should be proud of yourselves. We couldn't ask for a better son-in-law."

"Thank you, Deborah, we are very proud of him but then we love Tig too so yippee!"

Deborah laughed. "Richard's opening a bottle of champagne at this moment. Have you two got a drink?"

"Great minds! Ned's doing just the same. Ooh, here he comes."

"Hang on, so's Richard. Thank you, darling. You two ready?"

"Yes."

"To our two children: long life, love and happiness!"

"Our two children: long life, love and happiness!" echoed the other three."

"Mary dear, will you both come and stay with us the weekend they come home. Bring Charlie as well if she's around."

"We'd love to. I'll find out what her plans are. Thank you."

"Come on the Friday. I thought we might have a small drinks party for them on Saturday."

"Sounds wonderful."

"Right. I'll be in touch nearer the time. 'Bye."

"'Bye Deborah."

Deborah turned to Richard. "We've drunk a toast with the in laws to be. Is that enough?"

"No," said Richard putting his glass down. "Come here."

Deborah put her glass down as Richard held his arms open. She leant into him.

He kissed her lovingly. "Well done, my precious darling. With gentleness, patience and understanding you've turned that sweet girl round."

"It's sweet of you to say so, darling, but rubbish. You, your boys and their wives, Sharon and, most of all, Harry are the ones."

"I agree with Harry but, whatever the rest of us have done, you've been the central figure."

"I still say rubbish but thank you, darling. Thank you for supporting me and guiding me. I love you, my darling man: more than I can ever tell you."