Spanish Bay by Hirschi Hans M

Author:Hirschi, Hans M [Hirschi, Hans M]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Beaten Track Publishing
Published: 2015-10-10T05:00:00+00:00

Chapter Twelve: Family

DINNER WAS DELICIOUS, and time passed quickly, with the family discussing the plans for the memorial service, sharing memories of their parents, grumbling over Alexandra’s attitude and complimenting Joe’s cooking. Chris was grateful he’d been dealt such a great hand in life, despite the bleak outset when he’d left Lubbock.

“Before I forget, we need to monitor the phone. I’ve left a message with the navy. They wouldn’t tell me where Junior is, but they’ll have him call here as soon as possible. Depending on where he is, that could be in the middle of the night. And there’s one more thing we need to discuss…”

This was the part of the evening that Chris had dreaded the most. Neil immediately sensed as much and grabbed his hand under the table.

“We can expect a visit from social services in the coming days. It’s mostly about Frank, but Jessica, you don’t turn eighteen until next year, and I’m sure they’ll be asking questions about you, too.”

“Do you think they’ll make me move away?”

Sarah answered. “I doubt it. You could petition for emancipation. After all, it’s only what, five months, before you turn eighteen? I’m sure they’ll let you stay if, for instance, Jack promised to look after you. I think their main concern will be Frank.”

Jessica nodded and smiled at Jack. “I promise to be good.”

Jack rolled his eyes and grabbed another spoonful of food. “This spaghetti is really delicious, Joe. Thank you!”

Joe laughed. “You’re welcome, Jack.”

Jessica was concerned though. “So I get that I’m kind of off the hook, but what about Frank? Do you think they’ll take him away?”

Chris’s face turn ashen at the thought.

“Do you think there’s a way to convince Alexandra to look after him?” Neil asked.

Jessica scoffed. “Alex? Look after Frank? No way. She barely looks after her own. I know social services have been on her case for months. I can’t imagine anyone in their right mind would leave another child in her care, and certainly not someone with special needs.” She shook her head, dismissing the notion as ridiculous.

Neil looked at Chris and saw something rush across his face, but he couldn’t determine what it was. Pain? Realization?

“Let’s see what they have to say,” Sarah said calmly. “Social services isn’t just a policing force, they can also offer help and assistance. Who knows, maybe this is exactly what someone like Alexandra needs to ask for help, straighten up and become a better parent?”

Jack was still munching on his food and he quickly swallowed so he could speak. “Sorry to disillusion you, Sarah, but there’s no way my sister will ever look after Frank, no matter what. She’d pay people to take the kids she has off her back, if she had any money.”

“I’m sorry to hear that,” Sarah said. She lowered her gaze, realizing that maybe Chris’s fear of losing his brother to an institution was not completely unfounded.

“Do you have any aunts or uncles who could look after him?” Joe offered, clutching at straws.

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