All of the pieces were coming together, just not the way Rachel hoped. Just as she was starting to collect her thoughts after her conversation with Beatrice, she saw a limousine pull up in front of the bakery, to the attention of the people both inside and out of the bakery. For those in the parish who saw it, the vehicle was a huge curiosity. For Rachel, it was doomsday. Within seconds of parking, the man who exited the limousine was no stranger; it was her father!
He entered the bakery and commented, “quaintly provincial” under his breath with a tone of disdain, then his eyes located his daughter. There was no exchange of emotion or even a hug. She knew why he was there and she also knew that her life in Clovelly was over.
“Rachel,” he addressed her.
“Father,” she replied.
“The car is waiting.”