Helpless: The true story of a neglected girl betrayed and exploited by the neighbour she trusted. Toni Maguire

Чтение книги онлайн.

      A pushchair and his shoulders were enough to transport the three children, while I, bringing up the rear, would carry a bag filled with soft drinks, slices of cake and biscuits.

      There were days when we would sit and he would put his head lightly on my shoulder and tell me he was tired.

      ‘You must be all-in too, Marianne, having to help your mother like you do. Lie down and put your head in my lap.’ And happily I did. Those early days as I listened to the sound of the summer countryside, the hum of insects, the chirping of birds, the small splashes of water and the rustle of leaves and grass, I wriggled with pleasure at the soothing movements of his hands. They stroked my back, traced each vertebra of my spine, stroked my neck, ran lightly through my hair and gently caressed my cheeks.

      Nearby the three toddlers, with their faces crammed with sweets and their leading reins holding them securely and safe from the water, gurgled contentedly as I curled my body up even tighter against him, blissfully content to feel safe and cared for at last.