Inheritance

Chapter Seventeen. Conflicting Dates.

Chapter Seventeen 

Conflicting Dates 

There was a knock on the door. Gillian, who had been anxiously awaiting John's arrival, rushed to open it. There he was, his face abeam, his arms cradling a bottle of cheap champagne, and a bunch of flowers. He had passed. Gillian gave him a crushing hug. 

"I knew you could do it John. I just knew." She had trouble holding back the tears. "This means you'll be back next year." 

"Yes, but only just. I placed thirty- eighth, and only forty- two students can go on to second year honours. I'm going to be bottom of the class." 

"But not for long, John. We'll take care of that. Here, let me take those beautiful flowers. I'll go and get a vase and some glasses. Maybe you can open the champagne while I'm gone. Oh, and by the way, I've also got some great news." 

"What news?" 

"Just... be patient. I won't be long." 

When Gillian returned it was to find John emerging from the communal bathroom, a half empty bottle in his hand, his shirt front soaked, bubbly dripping from his chin Nonplussed by his poor bottle opening technique, he grinned at her, and poured the remaining champagne into two tumblers. They took the glasses in their right hands, interlocked their right arms, and raised the glasses. Their eyes met. Gillian noticed the gleam in his eyes. She sensed the days of friendship were over, but decided to continue the charade. 

"Friends, John, only friends." 

John laughed. He had obviously detected the catch in her voice 

"Yes I know, Gillian, friends, only friends." 

Together they lowered their glasses. Gillian, resisting the urge to give him a warm embrace, pecked him on the cheek, gave him a hug and a, "well done ,John". 

"Now do you want to hear my good news? 

"Of course." 

"Well sit down, because there's something important I want to discuss with you. Over here in the armchair." 

John sat down in the designated chair, Gillian on the arm by his side, her left arm draped behind his neck. 

"I've been offered a job, a really good job." 

"Fantastic, Gillian. I'm so pleased for you. Where? 

"At Ecclestone Primary." 

"That's in Sheffield isn't it?" She nodded. "That's fantastic. It means I will be able to keep seeing you next term." 

"I was hoping that I might be able to see you long before that." 

"What do you mean?" 

"I know that now the exams are over you have to get home to start your summer job. But I was wondering if you would like to come to my twenty- first birthday party. My parents have arranged something rather special." 

"When is it?" 

"June 28th." 

"No problem." 

"Really?" 

"Of course. I wouldn't miss my best friend's birthday for anything. Just give me directions and I'll be there." 

"Wonderful! My parents..." Gillian hesitated. Maybe it was better if he didn't know. 

"Your parents what?" John asked. 

"Nothing. Nothing important. Now let's finish what little champagne we have left. I've something to show you. We have to take a drive."