Doing Marvelous Thing

Chris watched his Aunt Dacia's face as the helicopter approached the island. He'd met her properly for the first time in his life that morning.

It was a strange feeling, finally bringing her back to the island where she'd grown up with his mother. He'd been amazed and pleased that she had agreed to come with him so readily. After the way she'd refused to have anything to do with him—even slamming the door in his face once or twice, before he'd given up on direct personal contact he'd been prepared for a lengthy process of persuasion.

She didn't speak as they walked along the ridge from the helipad, but as he glanced sideways at her he could see her eyes were shining brightly, and he knew coming back to the island was an emotional experience for her.

“I can't believe I'm really here,” Dacia said eventually, as they followed Danny's assistant into the house.

“Does it seem very different?” Chris asked, as he held the door for hi