Page 21 of Atlas: The Story of Pa Salt

‘My perspective on it is that they’ve known you their whole life. Well, at least, they’ve known of your existence. Apparently, your dad would mention you frequently. He always said that you were lost to him, and he never found you. So they’re just all real thrilled that they’ve managed to get you here, and fulfil his lifelong wish.’

‘Miles, you’re a lawyer, so you understand the sensitivities that exist within families, particularly after the death of a loved one.’

‘I most certainly do, yes.’

‘You’ll already have noted that I’m a fair bit older than the other girls.’

‘I... would never have noticed, but I’ve obviously heard from the others.’

‘Youarea lawyer, Miles. That was very tactful. Anyway, I imagine that given your profession, you can keep a secret?’

Miles chuckled and nodded at me. ‘Oh yes. I have a fair few which will go with me to the grave.’

‘Well, there’ll be no need for that thankfully, but I would appreciate your perspective on something.’

He took a moment to look me square in the eye. ‘You can count on my discretion.’

I reached into my handbag and pulled out the letter from Atlas. ‘Would you read this, Miles?’

‘Of course. You’re sure you want me to?’

‘I need an outside opinion that’s not Georg’s. It’s a note from my father to me. It seems to confirm, that I’m his... you can read it yourself.’ Miles did so, and I studied his face as he scanned it. Soon Miles was the one with tears in his eyes.

‘Excuse me,’ he said, handing back the letter. ‘That was pretty powerful stuff.’

‘Yes.’

‘If you don’t mind me asking, what are you so worried about? The fact that this means you’re his biological daughter?’

‘Yes! And the fact that he’s entrusted me with his life story before the others.’

Miles took a moment to formulate his response. ‘I can understand that. Well, I can’t speak for everyone, but think about it from their perspective – you’re an answer to a fundamental question. Their whole life, they’ve wondered why their mysterious father made it his mission to adopt these girls from around the globe. If he lost his wife and daughter when he was much younger, perhaps that goes some way to explaining it?’

I leant back into the pillows and considered his perspective. ‘I suppose I hadn’t thought of it like that.’

‘Anyhow, Jack and Mary-Kate have done the heavy lifting. Everyone loves them so much that they’re already practically part of the furniture.’

‘I can well imagine. Thank you, Miles.’

‘Don’t sweat it. And if things get a little too intense over the next few days and you need an outside perspective to talk things through with, just let me know.’

I heard the sound of running feet once more, and turned to see Georg emerging from the salon, brandishing a bottle of water.

‘I apologise, Merry. I had to venture down into the kitchen. It turns out that obtaining a law degree from the UniversitätBasel is a less complex process than searching the chief steward’s pantries.’

‘That’s quite all right, Georg. Miles managed to save me with his blue concoction here.’ I held the Gatorade aloft.

‘I’ll put a small charge on your bill at the end of your stay, madame,’ Miles replied with a wink. ‘Well, I’ll let you get settled, Merry. I’ve got another few laps to jog before Electra’s up and I’m on the coffee run.’ He stood up, and nodded at Georg. ‘And remember my offer. I’m always here. Deck three, suite four, I believe.’ Miles laughed, and I gave him a wave before he turned to continue his circuit of theTitan.

‘I’m sorry, Merry, I didn’t realise anyone was up.’

‘Not at all, Georg. It was nice to meet him. He was a very reassuring presence.’

‘Yes. He has overcome a lot in his life. I do believe him to be the perfect companion for Electra. Anyway, are you feeling a little better?’

‘Yes, thank you, Georg. Certainly well enough to make it to my bedroom, anyway.’

‘Take my arm. I’ll show you downstairs. Victor has ensured that your luggage is waiting for you.’