Chapter 54

He hadn't heard anything from Tony for a while and presumed life must be getting more complicated for everyone on the island. If only he could be there with them. Deciding to let Helen know he was thinking about her and Bobby, he made the most of his brief leave and sent another telegram.

He forced himself to focus, aware he was addressing his message to Ida. If only he could share his feelings…but he needed to ensure that the message wouldn't seem suspicious if it was intercepted. He would make it seem as if he was addressing the entire Hamel family.

All well here. Sending Christmas wishes to you all. Hope to celebrate with you next year. Always in my thoughts and prayers. Sending love, Richard

As he strolled back to his mother's home Richard tried to picture how Bobby might look, saddened to think he had never met his own child, let alone hugged him. Was Bobby tall for his age, like he had been? He wished he had a photo of the pair of them.

He reminded himself that he wasn't the only one in this situation. How many other soldiers must have had children born after they were sent away? The most important thing to do was try to make contact and let them know they were in his thoughts and that as soon as he could he would come to them.

He smiled, imagining the day when he would be able to hold Helen in his arms again and cuddle his son. He vowed silently to spend the rest of his life making up for the trouble he had caused by his stupidity. He wasn't sure how, but he was determined he would find a way.