A Time of Peace by Beryl Matthews Read Free Book Online Page B

of the office. ‘Quick, before he changes his mind.’
    She ran into the darkroom, left Pete with instructions on what to do while she was out, grabbed her camera and film, then hurried after Mike. He was waiting outside for her. ‘Thanks, Mike.’
    â€˜Don’t get too excited,’ he told her with a grin. ‘It’s a simple job, but I know you’re fed up with what you’re doing, and I thought a look at what’s going on in the streets might cheer you up.’
    â€˜You’re right about that,’ she told him. ‘I feel as if I’ve been banished from the real world.’
    He chuckled as they got into his car and sped off towards Bond Street. And for once, she didn’t take any notice of his driving.
    Kate was much happier during the next week, and even the chore of attending fashion shows and taking pictures of models couldn’t wipe the smile from her face. The Chief had allowed her to do a small job for Mike, and she was hopeful it would lead to others.
    â€˜Let’s get this lot developed, Pete,’ she said, as they returned to the newsroom after taking photos of a large department store’s new collection.
    He gazed at her shyly. ‘I’d like to be a photographer one day.’
    â€˜Would you?’ Kate wasn’t surprised. He had been taking a great interest in the work.
    He nodded and then sighed. ‘But I don’t suppose there’s much chance of that happening.’
    She stopped, her heart going out to him. ‘Don’t ever believe that something is impossible. You can achieve anything if you try hard enough.’
    He looked at her hopefully. ‘Do you think so?’
    â€˜Positive.’ She smiled in encouragement and continued walking, determined to see what she could do for him. They got on well together, and whenever she’d been frustrated with the work she was doing, Pete had been there for her in support. Although she was about five years older than him, as the weeks went by she could see he was very mature for his age. Being away from people yelling at him all day was allowing the sensible, intelligent side of him to surface. She was lucky to have him as an assistant.
    â€˜Kate!’ the Chief bellowed as soon as she opened the door.
    â€˜Oh,’ she said, pulling a face at Pete, ‘now what have I done? Wait here. I hope I won’t be long.’
    She headed for Andrew Stevenson’s office and walked in through the open door. ‘You called, Chief?’
    â€˜Yes, about time you got back,’ he grumbled. ‘This is Robert Sinclair. He’s just joined us and needs a photographer for the afternoon.’
    Kate smiled at the tall man, making a quick assessment. He was around thirty-five, dark blond hair and hazel eyes. He was outwardly attractive, but the deep lines around his mouth hinted at a man who was a stranger to laughter.
    She watched him look her up and down, and when his gaze returned to her face she lifted her head slightly.
His expression said that he disapproved of her dark brown trousers, cream blouse and flat shoes.
    â€˜You can’t come with me in trousers. I’m meeting an important man this afternoon,’ he snapped.
    â€˜I keep a skirt here,’ she told him.
    â€˜Change at once. We haven’t much time. And I hope you know your job – I don’t want to have to keep telling you what to do.’
    â€˜You won’t even know I’m there,’ she told him sweetly. Then she turned to Andrew, who was viewing the scene through narrowed eyes. ‘Can I take Pete with me?’
    â€˜Whatever for?’ he asked.
    â€˜I’d like him as my permanent assistant. He’s very good at changing films and carrying equipment.’
    â€˜Good Lord, is he?’ The Chief looked astonished. ‘He’s always dropping things.’
    â€˜He’s eager to please, that’s all. So can I have him?’
    â€˜Pete!’ Andrew