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‘I thought this job was going to be a hoot but I had no idea how much of one.’
‘I’m not finding it that funny. I’m feeling rather bemused.’
Hanna linked her arm through Grace’s. ‘Let’s get some work done. I find that often helps. So what’s wrong with your gran?’
‘We’re not sure. Mum thinks it could be the stat of dementia. They went to the doctor yesterday and he did some tests. We’ll get the results next week. But he thinks it could simply be age-related forgetfulness. Or it could be a vitamin deficiency. Or it could be a mini stroke. Basically, he doesn’t know.’
‘I’m sorry Grace. Let’s hope it’s the vitamin deficiency. That’s easily curable. If you need to talk, you know where to find me. I know you’ve got your family, but the offer’s there.’
‘Thanks. Griff said the same when Mum called me here after they left the doctor yesterday. It means a lot to know there are people who care.’
Which reminded Grace of Bianca.
‘I just need to check on something,’ she added. ‘Can you start without me?’
‘Sure. I won’t need you for a couple of hours at least.’
Grace went in search of Griff, and found him on the phone in the sitting room. He held a finger in the air as she walked towards him so she remained silent until he rang off, leant back in his chair and sighed.
‘That was fun. Do you need me?’
‘Where’s Bianca?’
‘What?’
‘I was wondering where she was because I haven’t seen her since Friday.’
‘She’s locked in the basement.’
‘What?’ Grace gasped with shock. ‘Oh. You’re joking.’
‘But you thought it might be true.’ He narrowed his eyes at her. ‘Do you think I’m the kind of man who locks women in basements, Grace?’
‘Well…’ she grinned. ‘No, of course not. But I was concerned that something might have happened to her. You said she and your dad were having lunch. Did that go okay? Tell me if this is none of my business.’
‘This is none of your business. But I’ll tell you anyway.’ He sucked in a long breath. ‘The lunch did not go well. Dad, Russell and I had a conversation yesterday. A serious conversation. After which we suggested to Bianca that a week or two in a private facility might do her the world of good. She agreed and she left yesterday.’
‘Really? Just like that? She left? Is she coming back?’
‘Yes. Yes. And yes. Hopefully in time for the Mistletoe Dance.’
‘Wow. There’s a lot going on, isn’t there? But why didn’t you mention this yesterday? I told you about Granny Joy.’
‘Which is why I didn’t mention it. You have enough to worry about right now without adding Bianca to that list. I’d appreciate it if you kept this between us. You can tell your family, of course, but please don’t tell Hanna or anyone else.’
‘What if someone asks why she isn’t around?’
‘Tell them to ask me and I’ll make something up.’
‘You’ll lie?’
‘Not exactly. But I’ll avoid telling the truth.’
‘Does Tabby know?’
‘Of course. She’s like family.’
‘And the staff?’
