Want to know the truth
What sort of job is it that keeps you so busy you cant even spare an extra hour with your own mother? Oh, never mind Vera Watson waved her hand dismissively, resigned after years of the same. At least let me pack something for you for the road? You must be starving, arent you?
*****
Gran, hello! Martha shouted with delight as she hopped out of the car. Guess what? Im staying with you for the whole month!
Hello, sweetheart! The whole month, are you serious?
Yup! Thats what Mum said!
Well, isnt that lovely! Well have so much time together to do things, Vera beamed, pulling Martha into a tight hug.
She glanced over at the open gate and hurried to help her daughter with the bags.
How was the drive?
Hello, Mum. The drive was fine. You know, its good having a car of our own. I honestly cant imagine how Id have managed bringing Martha and all these bags to you by bus.
I always used to drag you here by bus, didnt I? Never had a car myself, Vera chuckled, kissing her daughter on both cheeks.
Oh, I remember those days Still amazes me how you managed when I was little, taking me into town for the market. I mustve been about seven then, wasnt I? You managed to keep an eye both on me and all the bags.
Thats right, Mary love, you were seven just like Martha is now. Somehow, I managed. With a bit of luck and a prayer, as they say. Now go wash your hands while I set the table Ive cooked such a spread.
Mary looked a bit sheepish.
Something wrong? Vera asked, eyes instantly worried. Mary, please dont tell me
Yes, Mum. Ive got to be off soon
What, already? Right this moment?
Yeah, sorry, I have to. My boss needs this important project finished as soon as possible honestly, theres more to do than I can cope with, and never enough time.
Theres never enough time, Vera said with a sigh.
Mum, I cant afford to ruin things at work. Its a good job and they pay me really well. So, as much as Id love to, I really cant stay to have lunch. Ive got a three-hour drive back, too.
What sort of job keeps you from having a little time with your own mum? Oh, never mind Vera gave a small wave, well used to it by now. Let me at least pack you something for the drive? You look famished.
No, its fine. Feed the little one instead she hardly eats at home anymore, smiled Mary.
She gave her mum a hug.
Oh, I almost forgot Marthas with you the whole month! Please keep a close eye on her shes very curious and loves poking her nose where it doesnt belong.
Of course Ill keep an eye. Dont worry, darling, Vera kissed Mary goodbye, then stood watching the car drive away, unable to hold back her tears.
She hardly saw her daughter lately, mostly just the odd phone call.
But is that really any substitute?
At least she got to see her granddaughter now and then otherwise, the loneliness wouldve been too much.
Where is Martha, anyway? Vera glanced about.
*****
Vera searched for missing Martha in the house, then around the garden, and finally found her out in the back.
Martha! You should have at least told me you were heading out back, her gran tutted. You almost gave me a heart attack.
Sorry, Gran You were talking to Mum and I got bored. So I thought Id have a wander, Martha grinned. But Gran why didnt you tell me youve got such a beautiful cat?
Vera looked baffled first at Martha, then at the ginger tomcat sitting next to the girl.
She only just noticed him.
Well I didnt tell you because, well, Ive never had a cat, Vera said.
So whos this then? Hes definitely a cat! And he came right up to me!
I see hes a cat But hes not mine. And I havent seen any ginger cats around the neighbours either maybe he wandered here from the next village over.
The next village? Poor thing, maybe his owners chucked him out Gran, can he stay with us? Please? Ill play with him every day, look after him. Ive already decided on a name.
And whats that? Vera asked.
Peaches!
I shouldve guessed Alright, you can keep your Peaches. But now, off to wash your hands and lets eat and Ill feed your cat too.
*****
After lunch, Martha played out in the garden with Peaches for hours first she tossed a ball and Peaches chased after it, then they played hide and seek.
Of course, Peaches always managed to find Martha right away, but she never could figure out where he hid.
Thats it, Peaches! I give up, come out wherever you are!
Peaches crept up behind her, rubbing his head against her legs. Martha peered around for a moment, trying to work out where hed even come from.
Maybe he can turn invisible? she wondered.
Martha, its getting dark. Come on in, Vera called.
Gran, can Peaches come in too? I like having him near me.
No, love. Im not having a cat indoors and dont even try persuading me. He can sleep outside its warm enough.
Oh alright, Martha murmured, downcast.
She gave Peaches a hug goodbye, promising shed be out first thing in the morning to see him again.
He meowed back, maybe saying the same thing, then padded off to the shed his new favourite spot.
*****
Early the next morning, Vera went out as usual to the shed to feed her chickens.
The idea to keep hens had only recently come to her. Before, she mostly tended her veg and flowers, but now, she fancied a change a few fresh eggs for breakfast didnt hurt.
Why not? Vera thought. At least now I wont have to trek over to Mrs Jacksons for eggs.
But in the shed, she counted her chickens, then paused. Something niggled.
One chick short. There were eighteen last night, but only seventeen now. Odd.
He mustve escaped? Vera wondered. But how? The door was shut
She was disappointed, but remembered Martha would be up soon and hurried in to get breakfast going.
Gran, why the long face? Martha asked, tucking into her pancakes with jam. Not had a good nights sleep?
Im alright, darling. Just Im missing a chick. Cant find it anywhere, Vera sighed.
Youve got chicks?!
Yes, decided to start keeping them on the plot, Vera smiled. Want to meet them?
Of course!
Finish up, then well head over to the shed and you can say hello.
Ten minutes later, Martha watched the fluffy yellow chicks dart around the floor in the shed.
Theyre a bit like me, she laughed. Pretty and nosy!
She counted them up: Seventeen
Thats right, dear. Seventeen. But Im certain there were eighteen yesterday. Not sure what happened to the missing one.
Dont worry, Gran hell come back. Hes probably just exploring, Martha tried to reassure her.
Lets hope so
But the next morning, another chick had vanished. Then, on the third day, Vera counted again and shook her head in confusion.
Fifteen. That makes three gone.
Every day, one more chick gone.
If theyd all disappeared at once, Vera wouldnt be so confused. But every day, just one it started the moment Martha arrived with that ginger cat
Vera, what are you looking so glum for? grinned her oldest friend, Mrs Jackson, standing at the gate.
Whats there to be cheerful about? Vera replied quietly as she headed over.
Well, Marthas staying you should be over the moon! Or has something happened?
Something has
Vera explained about the chicks disappearing. Mrs Jackson glanced once or twice towards Martha, busy playing with the cat.
Thats the third chick gone! I really dont know where they could be getting to. They cant escape, and why would they want to? Maybe theres a fox breaking into the shed?
A fox? When did you last see a fox around here? Mrs Jackson laughed.
True Well then, who?
If I were you, Id be watching that ginger tom Mrs Jackson nodded at Peaches. Hes new, isnt he? Never seen him around before.
He just turned up when Martha did must have wandered from Brightwood village, because no one here has ginger cats only black, white or tabby ones. Wait Vera looked over at Martha and Peaches. Thats three days ago
Exactly! Coincidence?
But I feed him every day. Why would he steal chicks? And besides, there arent any feathers or anything left behind
Vera, cats are hunters. Especially at night you wouldnt catch them at it. I think its obvious.
I dont know Hes such a lovely thing.
Vera didnt want it to be Peaches, but the doubts crept in. She remembered seeing Peaches sit intently by the shed, listening. It wouldnt be hard for him to sneak in.
What if its true? she whispered.
*****
Martha, time for lunch! Vera called from the door.
Coming Gran, I just need to tell Peaches Ill be back soon.
I dont think thats necessary and your Peaches needs to keep away for a while.
Why not?! Martha looked surprised.
Because I think your cats been after my chicks in the night! As soon as he arrived, they started going missing you think thats a coincidence?
Gran, how could you say that? Hed never do that, hes lovely! Besides, we feed him. And
Martha grabbed Peaches, squeezing him tight.
And you dont have any proof! If youve got no proof, then hes not guilty. So there.
Martha, darling, cats are predators theyre never far from a hunt. Especially at night, youd never catch them red-handed. Run indoors now, and Ill see Peaches off the property.
At that moment, a figure appeared beyond the fence, hesitated, then came up to the gate.
Vera, you alright there? called Mr Frederick Collins, the local bobby. Could hear you all the way down Beech Lane!
Im fine, Fred, Vera replied curtly. Im not shouting, just talking loud. Carry on with your rounds, Ive enough on my plate.
Trouble? Would you like a hand? pressed Fred. I am here to help, after all.
I can manage, thanks.
Vera led Martha inside, ushered the ginger cat from the garden, then watched Fred walk away, lost in thought.
Whats brought him around, I wonder? Still hoping, is he?
Vera had known Fred for years ever since the old village bobby retired and young, dashing Fred Collins moved in.
Shed liked him instantly, waited for him to make a move. He seemed interested, but nothing ever came of it no declarations, no marriage proposal. Time marched on, and she wanted certainty, not to spend her life alone.
So Vera stopped waiting and married George, the tractor driver whod been courting her.
That hadnt worked out, but at least shed had Mary, her beloved daughter.
Fred remained single.
One day, Vera had found a letter from Fred in the post, finally confessing his feelings. But she no longer wanted marriage, deciding to devote herself to raising Mary.
And in time, her granddaughter arrived. Life had moved on. That ship had sailed.
But Fred kept writing, and finally Vera confronted him: Its never going to happen, Fred. Stop writing, and stop hanging around my house or Ill report you.
He kept his distance for a while, but now here he was again.
Maybe he was just passing?
*****
That afternoon, Mrs Jackson popped round for tea and more chick-related mystery talk. While they chatted in the kitchen, Martha stood by the garden fence, talking to Peaches.
Dont be cross, Peaches. Grans just been told stuff about you probably by Mrs Jackson. Shes staring over here now. But I know youd never do it, right?
Miaaow
Exactly! Why would she accuse you? Unless Martha eyed the house suspiciously. What if shes actually been stealing the chicks? She visits Gran often and knows where to find them
Martha was sure the chicks werent just vanishing for no reason. If Peaches wasnt to blame, someone else in the village was.
Well just have to catch the real culprit red-handed! Will you help, Peaches?
Miaaaow
Martha wasnt quite sure how to catch the thief yet, but shed soon think of something and clever Peaches would help.
*****
Martha lay awake, worrying about proving Peaches innocence. Vera was still clattering around downstairs, but finally all was quiet.
Martha tried to sleep, remembering the saying: Sleep on it and itll be clearer in the morning. She was almost drifting off when she heard a gentle scratching at the window.
She leapt up and peeked behind the curtain. Outside was Peaches, pawing insistently at the glass.
Peaches?! What are you doing here? If Gran finds youve come back shell be so cross.
Miaaow
Shush!
Martha opened the window and scooped him up, thinking maybe he was missing her. But he wriggled down, then jumped onto the windowsill.
Miaaow
Wait, Peaches, do you want me to come with you? Somethings going to happen tonight, isnt it?
If the chicks vanish at night, the only way is to catch the thief at night, Martha told herself.
She quickly dressed, picked up Peaches, and tiptoed out.
She couldve climbed out the window, but she was still little the front door was safer.
She made it to the door, but as she grabbed the handle, Veras stern voice made her jump.
And where do you think youre going at this hour?
Gran? I why arent you asleep?
I could ask you the same, Martha. Why are you sneaking about, and wherere you off to?
Vera turned on the light and gasped.
And how did the cat get inside?!
Dont shout, Gran Peaches found me and wants me to come with him. I think he can help us catch the thief tonight.
What thief, Martha?
The one whos been pinching your chicks!
Oh Martha its your cat hes the one taking the chicks out to eat them somewhere quiet. No one else would bother.
Do you love me, Gran?
Of course I do! Why ask that?
Then please, believe me Peaches is innocent, Marthas eyes filled with tears.
If not him, then who?
Well, well have to set a trap and find out! Please let me, Gran, Im sure the thief will be back tonight.
Vera sighed heavily. She didnt believe for a second that the thief was anyone but Peaches, but this was her chance to prove it once and for all.
Alright, Martha, on one condition. If tonight no chick goes missing, youve got to admit it was Peaches all along.
Deal.
Martha went to open the door, but Vera stopped her.
Do you honestly think Im letting you outside alone in the middle of the night? We go together. Give me five minutes.
In five minutes, Vera, Martha, and Peaches were creeping around the garden like secret agents, scoping out a hiding place. Peaches darted for the rosebush and meowed.
Gran, lets wait in here, Martha whispered.
In the roses?
Why not? Theyre huge and its the best view of the shed and garden.
If you say so, Vera smiled, humoring her.
Theyll see theres no thief, and well go back inside in an hour, she thought.
*****
An hour passed, and Vera began to nod off mightve even started snoring if Martha hadnt nudged her awake.
What is it?
Look, Gran Martha pointed at the gate.
Someone was there. Vera blinked and looked closer, just as the figure tiptoed past the rosebushes she recognised her childhood friend, Mrs Jackson.
Well, I never
But Mrs Jackson was acting suspiciously, peering round, clearly searching for something.
Unable to stay silent, Vera leapt out.
Well now, Oly! Out for a stroll, are you? Or maybe lost your way?
Mrs Jackson jumped, then relaxed when she saw Vera and Martha.
Blimey, Vera! You nearly gave me a heart attack.
Whatre you doing on my property at night, then? Three chicks not enough you come for the rest?
Are you daft? Why on earth would I want your chicks? I have my own, remember?
Then what are you doing here?
Im trying to catch the thief! I cant stand watching you so upset.
Liar!
Im not! Havent we been friends since school? How could you think Id steal from you? Some friend you are!
Vera froze. Oly sounded so genuine she couldnt help but believe her. No why would she need them? Oh, Martha, look what youve got me thinking
Sorry, Oly, I just
Shh! Oly whispered, glancing at the gate.
What is it? Vera whispered back.
Someones coming!
Quick, hide! Martha instructed, clutching Peaches.
Curiously, the two grown women obeyed the seven-year-old.
Seconds later, the gate creaked open and a man stepped in, a small sack wriggling in his hands.
As he passed the roses, Vera saw it was Fred Collins.
Oh, you! Vera burst out. So thats why you were skulking about here yesterday! Stealing my chicks, are you?
Fred froze, stunned to see Vera, and even more shocked to spot Oly and Martha with the ginger cat.
Well, say something Fred! Caught you red-handed, havent I? Is this revenge, because I didnt return your feelings?
Vera, its not what you think Fred stammered.
Oh really?
Red-faced, Fred admitted hed been taking the chicks. But not for revenge.
I only hoped youd come to me for help. Then Id find the chicks and be your hero.
Hero youre joking! You know this is illegal?
Could nick you for it! Oly cut in.
Youd think a copper would know better than to nick chicks off a lonely woman! What is the world coming to?
Martha eyed Fred, oddly trusting him. Peaches seemed unbothered too.
Im sorry, Vera I just I didnt know any other way to get your attention. I love you, you know?
Love! Well
Yes, I do.
Why didnt you ask me to marry you, then, all those years, when I was waiting?
I was scared youd say no
Men! They never say what they feel. Take note, Martha dont put up with the likes of that!
Uncle Fred, what about the chicks? Martha asked. Please tell me you didnt eat them.
No here they are. Fred opened the sack: the chicks were alive and peeped.
Fred handed the sack to Vera.
I just saw you so sad, Vera, but you never asked for help, so I brought them back. I just hoped
Hoped! At least you still know how to hope. Right, come on lets make some tea. No ones getting any sleep now!
Happy the chicks were safe, Vera even let Martha take Peaches inside, then she, Oly, and Fred spent the rest of the night at the kitchen table, chatting over many a cuppa.
She forgave Fred and, truthfully, was touched hed loved her all these years. Loved her enough never to marry.
Perhaps its time to give him a chance, Vera mused.
*****
Mum, hi! How was Martha? Did she behave? Mary asked, picking up her daughter at the end of the month.
All good, Mary! No trouble at all.
Youre not just saying that? Mary asked doubtfully. Shes a real livewire school says the same.
I promise! Shes been a star. Are you staying for lunch, or rushing off again?
Ill eat, actually, Mary grinned.
Really?
Yes! Project submitted, earned myself a weeks break. No rush now.
Thats wonderful!
Over lunch, Mary watched in surprise as Fred fussed over her mother and, truth be told, felt pleased Maybe Mum wont have to be on her own anymore.
She also noticed how close Martha and Peaches had become, surprised at her daughters new friendship, since she rarely played with other children.
*****
Mary stayed the whole week with her mum, doing her best to make up for lost time.
When it was finally time to leave, she packed up and called, Martha, are you ready?
Just a sec, Mum! Peaches, be good and listen to Gran, alright? Martha hugged her furry friend tightly.
Only when she let go could Peaches reply: Miaaaow
Ill come every school holiday! Promise, Mum?
Of course, Martha. Our deal stands Peaches stays with Gran, and you come every half-term and summer to see Gran and Grandad Fred.
*****
Vera watched the car head off down the lane, but this time, she was smiling.
Because her family would visit again soon and because she wasnt alone anymore: she had her beloved Fred, and Peaches, whod certainly forgiven her for suspecting him of wicked deeds.
Not that Vera knew that for sure, but she kept feeding Peaches her delicious fishcakes all the same and he, in turn, loved her all the more for it.
