Page 100 of Escape to the Country

‘I don’t think we can afford anyone at the minute,’ said Sam with a sigh.

Tom smiled. ‘You know, I really enjoyed myself. I think in a bizarre way it actually helped me unlock some lyrics.’

Sam looked surprised but pleased. ‘Really? Well, there’s always the rest of the stable block to do, if you think it helps.’ He waved his hand around the other nine rooms which were crying out for more attention. They looked even worse now that Eleanor’s workroom was complete, ready for her to move in. ‘You know, this is the most relaxed I’ve seen you in a long time,’ said Sam. ‘You’ve been somewhat out of it since your gran died.’

Tom shrugged his shoulders. ‘Grief is pretty awful to get through.’

‘I agree,’ said Sam. ‘I’m not sure Will has ever got past his.’

‘How is your brother?’

‘Too wild,’ said Sam, shaking his head. ‘He’s yet to find his way back into the family like I did. And it took me long enough.’ He sighed. ‘He was talking about doing up the gamekeeper’s lodge at some point, so we’ll see what happens with that.’

‘Nobody can take away someone else’s pain,’ said Tom. ‘But you can help ease it a little.’

‘Is that what Eleanor’s doing?’ asked Sam, breaking into a grin.

Tom smiled. ‘Maybe.’

Or was it more? Much more?

He was anxious to change the subject. ‘So you think it’s okay if I carry on repairing the rest of the stables?’

‘Sure.’ Sam shrugged his shoulders. ‘Everything needs repairing. There’s so much to do here, so the more hands to the pump, the better. But don’t forget the reason you’re here, right?’

Tom quoted some new lyrics at him and Sam seemed pleased.

‘That’s great,’ he said, grinning. ‘Well, go ahead. You’ll have a hit album if you keep renovating dilapidated old places like this every week. And we’ve got piles of derelict buildings just waiting for you!’

As he walked back to the main house with his friend, Tom realised he felt happier and more relaxed than he had done for ages. The work had helped. But also because he was around people again.

Had he closed himself off for too long? Stayed inside when he should have been outside? Was that what had blocked his thoughts and music?

He was coming to realise that it probably was. And that it needed to change.

He also knew that he was enjoying Eleanor’s company as well. And that he still wanted to kiss her again.