“Surrey’s not that bad, is it?” he continued. “There’re great schools, lots of outdoor space; you have family and friends there... Plus, I’d be nearby, an extra pair of hands in those difficult early months. I’d love to be able to help you.”
“That’s not what you said before.”
“I told you, I made a mistake.”
“And what if you change your mind again?”
“That’s not going to happen.” Simon looked across the table, his blue eyes fixed on her face, and Libby had to look away. “I really do mean it, Libs. If you’re nearby, then I can be there to support you and the baby, as much or as little as you want.”
Libby pushed her plate of food away. “So, what are yousuggesting, that I move in next door? That would be nice and cozy. The kid and I could pop round for Sunday lunch with you and whichever girl you’re dating at the time.”
She saw Simon wince.
“Come on, I’m being serious,” he said. “Rent is so much cheaper round us. Plus, my parents are there, and yours too.”
“If you’re trying to encourage me, that’s not helping.”
Simon laughed. “Okay, we wouldn’t have to tell your mum, then. But look, having a baby is bloody hard. And you’ve always been a bit nervous around kids, haven’t you? Do you really wanna bring one up on your own?”
“I’m not on my own,” Libby said as Dylan’s face flickered into her mind. What had he said last night?I want to be there for you.But that had been before Simon turned up, before she’d pretty much thrown Dylan out of the house.
“I know you’ve made some friends here, and that’s great,” Simon said. “But seriously, do you think some old dude and a guy wearing fancy dress are really going to give you the same support as your family?”
“Don’t you dare be rude about them,” Libby said sharply. “I can’t imagine they’re that impressed with you either after last night’s performance.”
“Sorry,” Simon said, raising his hands. “I just want you to think about it, all right? I know it might feel a bit weird at first, but people make things like this work all the time. And it has to be better for the baby to have its father nearby, right?”
“Have you finished?” Libby nodded toward his empty plate.
“Sure.” There it was again, that twitch of anger, although Simon hid it quicker this time. He stood up, gathering up his phone and keys. Libby stayed sitting.
“Right, well, I’ll see myself out, then.” He turned to leaveand then stopped. “Promise me you’ll think about what I’m suggesting. I know things have been difficult between us these past few months, but we have to move beyond that, for the sake of the baby. Yeah?”
He stared at Libby, his eyes so piercing, she felt he could see right into her mind. For a moment neither of them moved; then Libby gave a small nod of her head.
Simon smiled, but it didn’t reach his eyes. “Good. I’m the father, after all. I have rights too.”
CHAPTER
34
Libby had arranged to meet Frank at the top of Parliament Hill on Monday morning, and as she approached the summit, she saw him sitting on his usual bench and staring out at the view. He turned to look at her as she sat down.
“Libby, how are you? You look tired.”
“I’m fine, thanks. I just didn’t sleep very well last night.”
“Tell me about it. I can’t remember the last time I had a proper night’s sleep.”
“How are you feeling about the assessment tomorrow?”
Frank shook his head. “I have to admit, I’m pretty nervous. What if the social worker asks me to do something difficult?”
“I’m sure they won’t. Besides, you’ll have Dylan with you for moral support.”
“Thank god. Clara’s coming down too.” Frank grimaced as he said his daughter’s name.
“Try not to worry too much, Frank. It’s not an exam.”