Savouring the feel of the hot summer day hitting her immediately as she emerged through the double doors, Louise carried the tray of drinks to the plastic table facing the canal. She hid her envy of Helen's family well, smiling as she watched Johnny playing on the swings.
She placed the tray carefully on the table and let herself fall into one of the plastic chairs, positioning herself so the hot sunlight enveloped her summer dress. "How's Nick getting on? Any snags with him running the casualty department?"
Her elbows resting firmly on the table, Helen relaxed under the shade of the parasol. "I don't want to say anything bad him, but everyone does think you selected him just to keep it in the family."
A hunting horn sounded in the distance, accompanied by joyous cheering.
Helen felt s
