When the Devil Drives

'Oh, yes. He was born and brought up in this valley, and alwaysplanned to come back here eventually. It was a dream we shared,although I'm from the south of England myself. But the doctor haswarned me that another Yorkshire winter will play havoc with mybronchitis.' Mrs Osborne smiled rather sadly./There was a pause, then she went on, 'I know I'm being ridiculous andthat it's really none of my business, once the sale has gone through,but I asked the estate agents to try and find me a purchaser who wouldlike the cottage as it stands, and not want to make too many changes.Stupidly sentimental, of course...''And you'd like some kind of guarantee from us as potentialpurchasers,' said Cal. He smiled at her. 'I can state quite categoricallythat we shan't be contemplating anything more drastic than someminor redecoration.' He glanced towards Joanna. 'Isn't that right,darling?'Joanna pushed her cup away and stood up, grating the legs of herchair across the tiled kitchen floor.'I think we've taken up enough of Mrs Osborne's time,' she said, hervoice sounding to her own ears strained and unnatural. 'We—we dohave other places to see.'The look Cal sent her held surprise tinged with anger as he too rose tohis feet. 'Of course.' He shook hands with Mrs Osborne. 'We'll be intouch.'Joanna was thankful to be outside in the sunlight. She took deep gulpsof the crisp air as she crossed the street to her car. Cal got there beforeher.