The winners, p.23
The Winners, page 23
Over the following days, Malcolm and Julie remained mostly at home. Julie rested her leg and felt the benefit of doing so, and the couple also took the chance to talk. Malcolm told his wife of his conversation with Geoff and his intervention. Julie was surprised at him taking the initiative.
‘You’re a wise man, Malcolm Grainger, and I’ve not always given you credit for it.’ Perhaps there were still facets of each other’s personalities they had yet to discover.
As they opened up about recent traumas, their conversations turned toward the future, especially concerning their relocation plans. The discussion centred around the search for a home to accommodate Bill and their needs. With a tingle of excitement and anticipation, Julie took to the internet, exploring a wide array of stunning properties. She revelled in the virtual tours, which allowed her to see the potential of each one.
After a thorough online search, they created a shortlist of promising properties to visit when Julie felt ready. This process provided a much-needed distraction and ignited optimism in both of them. The idea of moving and a new beginning allowed them to dream about their future together.
Kate and Geoff had resolved their differences. Honesty was all Kate wanted; she was ready to forgive and support him in making amends. Telling the senior partner at work was the hardest part for Geoff, but he found his boss to be remarkably understanding. The man decided not to disclose the events to the other partners as the situation had been rectified and he could see no value in taking things further. He was sure Geoff had learned his lesson and would be a better manager. Kate also asked her parents not to go into detail about Geoff’s troubles with Danny. She hoped her brother would accept the explanation of a misunderstanding and assume it was a storm in a teacup. Indeed, Danny appeared to be trying to get along with his brother-in-law, or perhaps he was simply busy with his new role as director of the Grainger charitable trust, which was in its infancy.
During the weeks of Julie’s recovery, the family met several times to add flesh to the bones of the plans conceived in Florida. Julie expected the discussions to cause friction with conflicts of ideas, yet this didn’t happen. Geoff remained relatively quiet when he attended these meetings, although if he made any suggestions, Danny received them well and considered them along with everyone else’s. Julie and Mal exchanged many a knowing look and smile during these discussions, delighted at the maturity of their often feisty son. Maybe the lack of friction was because there was plenty of money to utilise – it was a new experience for the family not to consider the cost of what they wished to do.
Malcolm continued visiting his dad regularly, and once Julie was more mobile, she joined him. ‘We’ve been looking at several houses, Dad,’ Mal said, watching his father attempt a smile. Ever since they’d agreed that he would live with them, Bill Grainger had been eager for the move. ‘We’ve narrowed it down to three. One stands out as our favourite, it’s still in Burnbridge, but we’re visiting all of them this week to get a proper feel for each.’ Mal paused, excitement building at the thought of their next steps as a family. Julie could barely contain her enthusiasm.
‘We’ve already lined up a builder to start the renovations as soon as we choose the house. Since we’re cash buyers, everything should move quickly and it’ll be all systems go!’
Bill offered another crooked smile, clearly sharing in their excitement.
‘Danny’s doing a fantastic job managing the trust,’ Mal continued. ‘He’s really enjoying it. He said he’ll stop by tomorrow. He’s been researching special equipment for when we move and wants your input on what suits you best. It’s great seeing him so engaged, and even the kids are getting involved. They’re still hoping for their donkey sanctuary, but maybe Angie’s cat shelter will keep them happy for now.’
The visit ended on a high note, leaving Mal and Julie energised for the tasks ahead. With so much to do to improve not just Bill’s life but their own, they hardly needed encouragement to throw themselves into house-hunting.
EPILOGUE
Malcolm and Julie Grainger took great care in considering the additions to their new home, meticulously outlining their vision and specific requirements to an architect. The house they selected was a stunning property perched on the edge of Burnbridge, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the valley that stretched out below.
Julie was particularly enthusiastic about the prospect of having ample space. She imagined an environment where she could finally bring to life all the luxurious features she had only previously admired in the property shows she loved to binge-watch on television. From airy open-concept living spaces to stylishly appointed rooms, she dreamed of creating a home combining comfort with elegance. They enjoyed watching their dreams become reality, appreciating every detail and remaining grateful for their good fortune.
Malcolm worked closely with the architect to provide an area to meet his father’s needs, and Danny sourced some fantastic equipment to improve Bill’s life considerably. There was a new computer that could be operated by blowing into a tube, which was great for those days when his hands failed him. They purchased a custom-made wheelchair, which could be angled in a way to support the whole body and was operated by a simple knob on the arm.
Bill’s room would be an annexe at the side of the house, with bi-fold doors to the front elevation, allowing him to appreciate the glorious views. A fully equipped bathroom, with an air bath and a hoist, would be for his sole use. The whole family were thrilled when it was finally ready, and Bill’s face spoke volumes as he saw it for the first time.
Considering they’d both retired, Malcolm and Julie were busier than ever in administrating the various projects they’d become involved in, although the bulk of it fell on Danny’s shoulders. This was what having money was about – making it work for themselves, their family, and the wider community.
Malcolm and Julie had experienced a whirlwind of emotions over the past eighteen months, which included exhilarating highs and challenging lows. As the sun set, casting a warm glow over their plush new living room, Julie turned to her husband. ‘What would you say we’ve learned from our lottery win?’
Mal leaned back, his brow furrowed in concentration. ‘Too much!’ he exclaimed, a hint of laughter in his voice. ‘We’ve discovered our true friends and who we can trust. Some people’s reactions have been astonishing, far from what I imagined.’ He paused, memories flooding his mind. ‘I suppose we’ve also come to appreciate the immense value of family – and the bond we share.’ A warm smile spread across his lips as his gaze reflected his deep love for Julie.
She returned his smile. ‘People assume money equals happiness, but that’s not always true. Sure, it can buy amazing experiences, but not happiness itself. We had that long before we had money.’ She reached for his hand, squeezing it. ‘You know, Malcolm Grainger, you’re a wonderful man, and as usual, you’re right. This money has brought good and bad into our lives, but aside from the worst moments, I have no regrets.’ She hesitated, then added with a playful smirk, ‘Just promise me one thing?’
‘Anything.’
‘Don’t buy another lottery ticket.’
THE END
AUTHOR NOTES
This book was written prior to the UK government’s debate on assisted dying. During the editing process, Members of Parliament agreed on the first stage of the bill, which remains an ongoing discussion.
I did not intend to write a novel about assisted suicide; I was actually searching for a historic family secret that some might consider shameful and open to blackmail, while others might see it as heroic. However, as the characters developed and began to take on their own personalities, their perspectives on the topic became divisive – completely understandable given the emotive nature of the subject.
My intended theme was to be careful what you wish for; you may get it, and I’m sure you’ll agree that not everything we desire is good for us. I hope you enjoyed the Graingers’ struggles with their life-changing win, and may your good times not be blighted by such dramatic events!
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
As always, I am grateful to my husband and family for their unwavering love and support during the countless hours I spend writing. And to the exceptional team at Bloodhound Books, your invaluable help in bringing this book to life is truly appreciated. Each book is a collaboration. I have the privilege of crafting characters and spinning plots, while you diligently work on refining and presenting. Your dedication, professionalism, and guidance have been invaluable throughout this process.
A NOTE FROM THE PUBLISHER
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Gillian Jackson, The Winners
