Page 21 of In at the Deep End

Owen smiled. “Then I’d better hope she behaves herself.”

Callum laughed. “Good luck with that.”

Matt looked out of the window as Southampton drew closer.

For the second time that day, he was about to meet someone who knew Owen better than he did.

Another version of Owen?

Chapter Six

Owen glanced at the front garden. “She’s been planting again.”

Callum cackled. “Yeah, but when Mum does it, they survive.”

Matt cracked up, and Owen gave him a hard stare. “Can I remind you that I’m technically your employer right now?”

He grinned. “And I’m the man who’s going to make your front garden jealous of your back garden. When I’m done, you’ll be able to charge entry. A full-page spread in House & Garden magazine.” Then he chuckled. “Okay, I’m not that good, but I still say we can make the space look amazing.”

The front door opened, and Cyn stood there, gazing inquiringly at Matt.

Callum walked up to her and kissed her cheek. “Did you have a quiet weekend?”

“Sole use of the remote? I had a fabulous time.” The skin around her eyes crinkled as she regarded Owen warmly. “Since when does he get chauffeur service?” Another keen glance in Matt’s direction.

Owen could practically hear the cogs turning in her brain.

“This is Matt Daley. He lives in the house next door to mine, and I’ve hired him to work on the garden. He’s also helping me with furniture.”

“Daley?” Cyn’s eyes widened. “No way.” She stared at Matt. “Jeff Daley is your father? Except that’s a stupid question. One look at you now, and the resemblance is obvious.”

Matt held out his hand and they shook. “My mum was just talking about you this morning. She’ll be tickled pink when she knows I got to meet you.”

“Your mum knows me?” Her brow furrowed.

Owen couldn’t wait to see her reaction. “Babs.”

Cyn’s mouth fell open. “Oh. My. God.”

Callum laughed. “You should’ve seen Dad’s face when he discovered who his new neighbours were.” He gestured to the front garden. “What do you think of this?”

“It’s a well-thought out space.” Matt looked towards the front border. “You know, those lavender plants are in completely the wrong place.”

Owen sighed dramatically. “I’ve employed him for less than twenty-four hours and already he’s insulting my garden.”

Matt grinned. “I’m insulting someone else’s garden. Yours hasn’t happened yet.”

Cyn laughed. “See? He gets it already.”

Matt frowned. “Gets what?”

“Owen’s tendency to take everything personally.”

Owen stared. “I do not.”

She snorted. “Oh, you do.”

“I merely have standards.”