I’m sure Flora won’t have any objections-under the circumstances. And she’s always been fond of Alison." "Rose is right." Douglas walked toward them, a brandy snifter in his hand. Dressed in tan gabardine pants, a white shirt open at the neck and a navy cardigan, he looked very much the lord of the manor. "The change will do the girl good," he continued. "It’ll give her a chance to see things from a different perspective." How sensible they were, Kate thought, feeling suddenly very inadequate. No wonder Alison loved it here. There was no chaos, no pressure, no arguments. Only common sense. The separation would only be for a short while, she reminded herself. As soon as this mess with Eric was cleared up, Alison would come home. They would celebrate in style, go to Disney World perhaps, or to Aspen. How long had it been since they had gone skiing together? "I guess you’re right." Trying not to think of how lonely the house would be without her daughter, Kate stood up.
