‘Thanks, Bonnie,’ said Spencer. He watched her head off to the arts and crafts area, then turned to Debra, wondering if she had anything to say about Leo or Ryan.
Debra lightly patted his shoulder. ‘You okay?’
‘Yeah. I’m fine, thanks.’
Debra peered into the pram. ‘So, this is Archie, eh?’ She smiled up at Beth. ‘Good to put a face to both your names.Spencer told me all about you when he came to collect the boys earlier.’
He saw Beth’s footing shift. He hoped she didn’t think he was going around telling people about the pram on the doorstep business. ‘I might show Beth around while she’s here. Give her a proper introduction to the centre.’
Beth’s smile looked a tad nervous. ‘I might like to join myself,’ she told Debra.
‘You are more than welcome.’ Debra left them to it, heading back to her office.
Spencer whispered close to Beth’s ear. ‘I didn’t tell her our business.’
‘Oh, erm, thanks. I appreciate that.’
He smiled softly, motioning one hand forward. ‘I think you’ll like it here.’
‘You do feel welcome as soon as you hit the car park and see the large colourful flowers painted on the walls.’
‘Yes, they really stand out on the white building. Here, let me show you my favourite room first.’ He opened a honey-coloured door, revealing an indoor tranquil garden. Tall leafy plants and a trickling water feature were by one wall. A large silvery orb twinkled in the constant stream of clear liquid.
Beth parked the pram by a big cheese plant and stroked over the top of one of the two large cream comfy chairs.
Spencer encouraged her to sit while he flicked a switch by the door that sent the soft music of wind chimes into the room.
Beth’s eyes widened. ‘Ooh, these are the kind of chairs you fall asleep in.’
‘I have done.’ He laughed and joined her.
‘It really is peaceful in here. It’s giving me ideas for my flat. My cousin’s house is quite colourful, but I think I prefer these earthy tones.’
‘Bring some nature home. That’s what Debra says.’
Beth slipped off her boots and curled her feet up on the soft seat. ‘Are you really okay, Spence? It was a lot today, what with Leo, then Ryan’s mum.’
He removed his own footwear and relaxed back, stretching his arms above his head. ‘Yeah, I knew it would come with the role.’
‘Knowing and experiencing are two different things. Parents, another thing altogether.’
They shared a smile.
‘Ryan’s mum is the type to expect instant results, but it’s early days for the kids. I won’t rush their process here. The whole point is to have fun, chill for a bit, and show them they can do whatever they want to when they put their mind to it.’
‘Not sure Ryan has a lot of choice.’
Spencer rolled his head her way and smiled. ‘I’m glad you were with us today. They like you.’
‘I like them too. They’re a nice bunch.’
‘If you do want to join here, you can as a member or volunteer. Some people here are both.’
‘It does seem like it would be beneficial.’
‘I don’t want to put too much on you. I know you want to talk baby banks with my friends at dinner.’ He followed her gaze over to the trickling globe.
‘I don’t want to volunteer here, just come visit this room from time to time.’ She laughed for a moment. ‘I never thought about how healthy peace could be before my head cracked up.’
