Mallorcan Magic – Episode 38
Mallorcan Magic
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WHEN Danny pulled into the car park there were a few cars there. He parked at the far end, out of sight of the front terrace.
“Danny, may I speak frankly?” Eira twisted her hands together in her lap, staring out at the trees. ”I’m not sure what you expect from me. We’ve backed ourselves into a corner and one of us has to suggest a solution.”
“You’re right. Time for a beer?”
“That sounds good.”
They walked together to the restaurant.
“We could order another paella but something tells me my need for a shower is more urgent than for food.” She chuckled.
“Maybe. It’s probably best to get back soon anyway.”
“I’ll order drinks. You’re happy sitting out here, aren’t you?”
She nodded, knowing she’d be happy sitting anywhere with him.
He was away several minutes and returned, apologising.
“The jungle drums haven’t spread the word yet, so José was surprised to see me – wanted to give us dinner to celebrate – but I thanked him and said another time would be great.”
She smiled politely, afraid to take anything for granted.
Two frosted bottles of beer arrived, with two tall glasses. The waiter poured for them and hurried away, leaving them alone.
Danny turned to Eira.
“Could we drink to the future? Our future.” He met her gaze.
“Danny, will that include Raoul? As part of your household, I mean.”
“Would that concern you?” Danny frowned.
“I can’t bear the thought of him losing his job, though he was very, very stupid to act as he did.”
“Once it’s established who was behind the plan to discredit me – and the police have very good leads now – I intend speaking to Raoul, but not until his mother and Isabella have had their turn.” Danny shot a lopsided grin at Eira. “Believe me, the Spanish Inquisition would be a better fate than the one he faces once those two ladies get their hands on him!”
“I can imagine,” Eira said. “I can forgive him for being angry with me but what he tried to do to you was terrible.”
“I won’t press charges and I’m prepared to give him a second chance. I don’t want him to end up a criminal.”
“Let’s hope he understands how lucky he is. I suppose you’ll want me to pick up as much business knowledge as I can, as soon as I can, so I can help you properly.”
He nodded.
“We need to press on but I’m wondering whether it’s best I let you go.”
Her throat dried. Horrified, she stared at him. He was willing to let Raoul stay on but was dismissing her?
“Let me go? As in . . . you no longer want me to have the nanny job?” How could her world be ending on such a beautiful evening? This man had just proposed a toast to their future!
“It might be the only solution.”
She sipped her drink, trying to control her trembling hand.
“It comes as a shock but… you’re the one in charge.”
“Not true,” he said. “I want us to be a partnership. How about you?” She frowned.
“I don’t have enough business acumen to become your partner. And you know I love your children – I’d miss them terribly if my role totally concerned the new hotel. Although,” she said hurriedly, “I’m looking forward to becoming involved.”
“What would your answer be if I proposed?”
“Proposed what?”
He beamed.
“And here’s you, such a bright, intelligent young woman! I’ll try again.”
He put down his glass and stood up.
“Will you stand up, please?”
Puzzled, she rose. He dropped to one knee and took both her hands in his.
“Eira Campbell, would you do me the honour of becoming my wife?”
Stunned, she couldn’t believe her ears.
“I come with baggage, as you very well know, but my children adore you, though one day they’ll grow up and leave us.”
“Danny Carpenter, I . . .”
“You what, Eira Campbell?”
“I can’t believe this is happening. Mr Carpenter, are you quite certain it’s what you want?”
“Not quite certain, Miss Campbell: very certain. In fact, more sure than I’ve ever been about any other decision I’ve made in this lifetime. Are you positive you should have said yes?”
“One hundred per cent positive. Shouldn’t we go home now?”
Hand in hand, they walked back to their car and towards the rest of their lives.
The End.
