Damaged Goods by Diane McNab - HTML preview

CHAPTER THREE

FIONA

Time passed and Jane attended the obligatory visits to her home. One day Fiona announced that her family would love to meet her and that Jane should come with her on their next school break. Having been regaled with stories of Fiona's family Jane knew it was something she would love to do, however, there was the matter of her Father allowing her. Surprisingly, after phoning him he had given the okay for the trip to go ahead with Jane quickly ending the call before he could change his mind. Jane and Fiona danced around the room laughing in delight.

Fiona's Dad picked them up in a mini bus saying Jane should take a seat in the back wherever she could find room. After moving a few toy trucks and stuffed animals Jane managed to find a big enough space to buckle up.

Knowing Fiona's Dad was a Dentist Jane had been shocked to see the rotten teeth in his big friendly grin. Later when Jane had pointed out the matter, Fiona, not taking any offence had laughed and said “Dad is such a scardey cat, he believes all Dentists are Butchers.”

The whole family were outside to greet the car as they pulled in to the driveway, the children varying in ages surrounding Fiona like small crowd. “Knock it off” Fiona shouted “geeze you would think the lot of you hadn't seen me in years. Everyone meet my good friend Jane.”

Fiona then introduced her Mum, a woman whose bosom would have done a Reuben's painting proud. Then there was a short stout woman called June who apparently did everything in the household. Both woman gave Jane a huge hug making her feel oddly comfortable.

Dinner was a raucous affair with Fiona and a couple of the children bringing in dishes and placing them on the large dining table. When everyone was seated Jane was astonished to see June make room for herself at the table.

“This is delicious June thank you so much” said Jane.

The table erupted with laughter with June explaining that cooking was not her forte and that it was her Husband Bert who she should bestow the compliment on.

“Oh I see, well I will make sure to thank him when I meet him” said Jane “I don't mean to be rude but does Bert not like to eat with everyone?”

“Oh Lord no he can't stand the rabble, he likes to eat in the kitchen where he can watch his sports in peace. We never did have kids of our own so I take all my maternal instincts out on this lot, so with all things considered it works out well for everyone.”

Jane enjoyed the visit immensely.