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Kate looked at Bob, and he mouthed the ingredients at her. “Honey and bacon,” she said with conviction.
“Wow. All that slop you used to cook for me and all the while you could make food like this.”
“Actually, Bob did most of the cooking.”
It was the first time Maddie had spoken since Alex’s arrival, and all eyes turned to her. Kate felt a stab of betrayal. Shouldn’t Maddie be on her side?
“All I did were a few finishing touches. Kate did most of the cooking.”
“From what I saw, you spent a lot longer in the kitchen than she did,” said Maddie.
“Well, dear, from whatIsaw, you were sleeping off a bad hangover upstairs. I shouldn’t think you have the first idea who prepared the meal that’s in front of you.”
Beneath the table, Joy reached for Kate’s hand and squeezed it. Alex found the whole interlude hilarious, holding a hand up to a bemused Joy for a high five. The rest of the meal passed in tense small talk, punctuated by periods of awkward silence. Kate felt immense relief when the last mouthful was eaten and she could escape the room on the pretext of clearing dishes. Joy and Bob offered to help, but Kate insisted she could manage herself. Both looked disappointed.
“I’m stuffed,” said Bob. “How about we do presents before pudding?”
“That sounds a wonderful idea,” said Joy, clapping her hands together in glee.
“Sounds good to me,” said Kate. “Just let me clear away these things. I’ll be back in a minute.”
Despite the change in atmosphere brought on by Alex’s arrival, Kate felt excited to be giving her friends gifts, and hoped that she had chosen wisely. She lay the plates on the kitchen worktop and gathered up the bag of gifts from her room. She had posted Alex’s gift, (a set of beautiful cuff links from the gentlemen’s shop in town) before Christmas, and hoped he wouldn’t feel too left out without a gift to open.
“Does anyone need another drink before we open presents?” Kate asked, laying her gifts down on the table.
“I wouldn’t mind a tea,” said Bob, “but I’ll make it. You relax.”
“Tea?” scoffed Alex. “I’ll have a beer, please.”
“Sure thing. Anyone else?” Bob had taken on the role of host and looked at Joy and Maddie.
“I’m good with my wine, thanks,” said Maddie.
“I’d have a tea if you’re making one,” said Joy. Kate wondered if she really wanted a cuppa or if it were a show of solidarity with Bob.
Kate wandered into the kitchen to see if Bob needed a hand. “Are you OK in here?”
“I thought I told you to relax,” said Bob, smiling at her.
“It’s more relaxing in here,” said Kate. “I really don’t know what’s got into Maddie, and as for Alex…”
“So, it wasn’t a good surprise, him showing up, I mean?”
“I don’t know. I mean, I’m pleased to see him, but I have no idea where I stand anymore.”
“It sounds like you two need to have a good talk about things. But, Kate?”
“Yes?”
“Don’t be pushed into anything. You’ve changed so much since you’ve been here. Just remember how capable you are. You don’tneeda man. If you want one, fine, but please know you don’t need one.”
“Thanks.”
When Kate and Bob returned to the living room, they found Alex and Maddie staring at phone screens and Joy drumming her fingers on the table. Kate wished they’d make more of an effort with her. If they took the time to talk to her, they’d realise what a remarkable woman she was. At that moment, Kate felt ashamed on Alex and Maddie’s behalf.
“Right, as host, I feel I should be able to give my presents first.”
“Yes, Ma’am,” said Bob, giving a mock salute.
