Philip was saved the expense of advertising for a new driver when Richard was arrested. He and Caroline happened to meet Hugh in the community hub in the centre of Glentrool.
“Hello Hugh. How’s the arm?” Caroline was pleased to see him out and about again. He had been housebound since his accident.
“M … M … More or less back to normal, thanks.” Hugh stood up to shake hands. “I … I …I can lead a normal life now, b … b … but have to give up working in the forest. Haven’t the strength to handle a cutter.”
“What are you going to do?” It was Philip’s turn to shake his hand.
“D … D …Don’t know. How’s your business, Phil? D … D … Do you need another driver?”
“Matter of fact I do.”
As the weeks passed, their friendship grew alongside their teamwork. It was good to have a driver living in the same hamlet. Richard had to travel all the way from Wigtown and was always difficult to get on with. Most of the work was local, but on this occasion a fragile parcel had to be taken from Newton Stewart to Inverness
“Sorry it’s a long way, but a least its only one delivery.” Philip handed Hugh the paperwork.
“Th … Th …That’s Okay. All in a night’s work. D … D …Don’t get too drunk celebrating your anniversary with Caroline. What is it - Ten years you've been married. We'll have our eighth next month.” Hugh was glad to work for Philip. He had a wife and two children to support. His work as a forest worker came to an abrupt end when a tree fell the wrong way and injured him.
***
In the alternate universe, Hugh escaped the crashing tree and was still a forest worker. He sat in his car about to drive to work. He enjoyed his work, being with his mates. It took away his loneliness at not finding a wife. As he touched the ignition key he suddenly found himself about to start the engine of a van. He was confused. He looked about him. He recognised the layby; it was on the outskirts on Thornhill.
What am I doing here. How did I get here. I should be outside my house.
He glanced at the paperwork on the seat beside him. His name was quoted as the driver. He had no recollection of being in Inverness, but clearly someone had signed to say it had been delivered, whatever it was. Philip’s firm was on the header of the note. He knew Philip. He lived in Glentrool a few doors from his house.
Hugh decided he must drive home and see if Philip could explain things. Thornhill was busy as he drove carefully past the school.
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