Der Feind

Jamie had decided to meet his father that day. His father wanted to talk.

Jamie: “I’m riding over to my dad’s now. Let’s see what he wants. See you later, Gillian.”

Gillian: “Probably a clarifying talk. That would be good for both of you. Give him my regards.”

Mr. Springflower was waiting in the yard.

Jamie: “I’m here. What did you want to talk to me about?”

Mr. Springflower: “Good that you came. We have something important to discuss. Let’s go inside.”

In the kitchen.

Jamie: “So — what’s so important?”

Mr. Springflower: “You know Mr. Kembell… from the G.E.D. He wants Meadowland badly. He made me a very lucrative offer if we help him get the land. A small disturbance here… maybe a little fire there…”

He said that sooner or later I would give up and sell Meadowland to Kembell. Jamie would inherit Springflower Farm anyway, and we could live there. Kembell had promised him a large “commission” if he and his son supported him. Jamie couldn’t breathe anymore. He had to get out of that house — away from this man. Jamie (thinking): Gillian must never find out. What kind of person is this? A monster. Now he has an enemy. I’ll do everything to stop this. A thousand thoughts raced through Jamie’s mind. What if his father acted on his own? And even if not — for enough money, Kembell would find someone else. A small fire… would Kembell even go over dead bodies? Jamie had to talk to someone. Back at Meadowland, I wanted to know everything.

Gillian: “So — how did the talk go? Were you able to clear things up?”

Jamie: “Everything’s fine. I just need to quickly go to Jarlaheim. I forgot something. Can I take your car?”

Jamie drove to the Jorvik Stable — to Mr. Riverton, Claire’s father.

Jamie: “…I had to talk to someone. I want to keep Claire and Rowan out of this. I never expected this from my father.”

Mr. Riverton: “It’s good you came to me, son. I’ve known you since you were a child… and I know your father. No offense — a ruthless man. I will help you.”

Mr. Riverton explained that Jamie’s father still had an outstanding loan with him. He was confident he could make him drop the plan — otherwise the loan would be called in. The alternative would be going to the police. That same evening, Mr. Riverton went to Springflower Farm.

Mr. Springflower: “Well, what an honor. To what do I owe this visit?”

Mr. Riverton: “I spoke with Jamie. Have you completely lost your mind? You will stop this immediately, or I will make sure you lose everything here. Think carefully — the police would be very interested. You stay away from Meadowland. Is that clear? And I’ll deal with your friend Kembell as well.”

Jamie was on his way to the stable when Claire opened her door.

Claire: “Oh Jamie — Dad asked me to tell you that everything is taken care of.”

Jamie: “Phew… thank you, Claire.”

When he came to me in the stable, he seemed thoughtful. He pulled me into his arms.

Jamie: “Don’t say anything. I just wanted you to know that you’re the most important person in my life — and that I’d do anything to protect you.”

I didn’t know why he chose this moment to say it. But I knew one thing for sure: I would do anything for him too.