“Well, that is something I thought I would never see again.” I leaned my weight on the railing beside me, trying to give Cain back his half of the bed, and room for hugs from Mum and Dad. “What was that all about then, eh?”

“I’m not too sure, but hey, it doesn’t matter. But you…” his finger pointing at Charlie, “Bella’s your favourite sight and favourite kid? Dad,” Cain covered his heart dramatically, “I’m deeply hurt. I mean, that cuts deep man. When did that happen? When did squirt knock me off the top spot?”

“Told ya!” I sang, accompanied by a little happy dance on the spot. “Honestly Cain, take it like a man.” I smiled when he went into a sulk. I felt Dad’s arms wrap around me and I leaned into his embrace.

“Okay guys, no need to rub it in! Geesh.”

“It’s like you don’t know us at all.” I laughed; it felt like nothing over the last week had ever happened, nothing had disrupted our family. I wonder how long this is going to last?

As I ducked behind Charlie, I saw Mum standing back in the corner, watching us intently.

“Mum? What’s wrong?”

“Huh? Oh, nothing sweetheart, nothing.” She walked over and enclosed me in her arms. “Just thinking I guess.”

“Well, that’s not good.” Cain said, earning a smack.

“Oi, watch it, you cheeky sod.” Mum laughed, “I was thinking about this,” She waved her hands around at us all, before claiming me again. “I miss this … I miss our family, I … I just miss you crazy bunch I guess. Don’t get me wrong, I love Phil, but he’s no you, Charlie.” I averted my widened eyes to Cain, who mirrored my expression. “Being back here, with you all … I guess what I am saying is that I miss being a Swan; it’s where I always felt I belonged. I felt, and still do, feel horrible about splitting our family up, sending you kids here, there and everything every couple of weeks …”

“Renee, it’s no one’s fault. Events just proved too much for us and it put strain on all of our relationships. I mean, I guess in a way, I wasn’t the best husband; all the work, fishing, sports … I mean I could go on but, um, yeah. You deserved better. I mean, we did have six kids to raise at a young age. Maybe, I don’t know, we could …”