7
Jasmine began talking to Evie after that first trip to school. She appeared to have settled in well and was eager to tell Evie about what they’d done in class each day, and proud to show off her drawings. Each afternoon, Evie made sure she was around when the little girl came home so she could hear her reading.
‘I have three friends.’ Jasmine said, offering their names proudly. ‘But Penny’s my best friend.’
‘And you like this school better than being with the nuns?’
The child nodded solemnly. ‘And I like sleeping here too in this house. It’s nice being with you.’
Evie was touched as well as relieved. At least Douglas could have no grounds to complain.
On Thursday afternoon, Evie set off to Miss Helston’s house with Jasmine. The teacher lived with her parents on the outskirts of Geo
