Damaged Goods by Diane McNab - HTML preview

JANE'S GRANDPARENTS

GRAYSON'S FATHER AND MOTHER

Grayson's Father, Joseph Collins, was a Supreme Court Judge and his Mother Claudia was, well, a Lady who lunches.

Their home was a large sprawling gated house with servants to attend to any matter required.

Claudia gave birth to Grayson. She had found the whole pregnancy and delivery entirely distasteful, handing him over to the Nanny and only entering the nursery for appearances sake.

However, the Nanny became aware Grayson was no ordinary child, perceiving him to be bright beyond his years and she was right.

GRANNY AGNES

Granny Agnes arrived on the doorstep three days after my birth holding a suitcase which contained a teddy bear and beautiful dresses she had made for me.

My Mother chastised her for taking the long journey, well aware in had entailed a train ride and then a bus trip.

“Mum I could have arranged for a car to pick you up” said Alice.

“And let my neighbours thinking I am getting a bit above myself, not on your Nelly. Besides there wouldn't be any public transport if it wasn't for the likes of me to enjoy it. Now stop your blabbering and show me my Grandchild.”

“Well look at you, you are the spitting image of your Mother, welcome to the World” said Agnes picking up the precious little bundle.

The next day Alice explained the circumstances of Jane's birth.

Agnes sighed and said “Aye, well that is sad, but look at her she is perfect and anyone saying less of her will get a clap around the chops and it will be my hand doing it.”

Much to my Father's chagrin Agnes visited often making herself quite at home. The only time she felt uncomfortable was while sitting at dinner with her Daughter and Son In Law. Eventually she couldn't stand the silence between meals and announced she would prefer to have dinner in the nursery if that was fine by them. Grayson gratefully replied that would be acceptable.

“Sorry Lily” said Agnes “I hope I am not intruding on your space. I just couldn't bear to go through another dinner downstairs. Honestly I felt like farting just to clear the room.”

Lily burst out laughing and said “glad for the company.”