Chapter 29:

Opening the door to the office Ms Mason and Mr Wilding made their way in and shut the door quietly behind them. Ms Mason turned and was about to talk to Libby when she saw her curled up in a ball in the corner of the sofa sound asleep. Ms Mason wasn't surprised, she must have been exhausted from the stress of exams and having to look after Olly by herself. She quietly walked over to Libby and knelt down next to her and gently whispered her name and gave her a little shake to wake her up. After a few attempts Libby started to stir and after a few seconds she realised where she was and sat up on the sofa.

"Sorry, I didn't mean to fall asleep." Libby said before letting out a yawn.

"Libby, it's fine. You deserve a little cat nap." Ms Mason smiled at her before taking a seat on the sofa whilst Mr Wilding pulled over a chair from the table.

"I've been talking to social services about where you and Olly are going to go until this is sorted out. How would you feel about staying with Mr Wilding for a little bit? He's the nearest foster parent in the area without other children and I thought you and Olly could do with the peace and quiet." Ms Mason explained before pausing to give Libby the chance to process what she had been told.

"I know it'll feel strange staying with me but at least this way you'll get the space you need and I make an amazing spaghetti Bolognese." Mr Wilding said trying to make Libby feel more at ease.

"Ok." Libby nodded and gave Mr Wilding a smile. She knew it was going to be really odd staying with Mr Wilding but at least she knew Olly was going to be safe whilst they are with him.

"Good, now Ms Mason has allowed us the afternoon off so how about we go and get your things from your house, pick Olly up from school and get settled. Does that sound ok?" Mr Wilding explained.

"It sounds great." Libby said as a smile spread across her face. She turned to Ms Mason and gave her a huge hug which Ms Mason returned.

"You're the best Ms" Libby said quietly as she held back tears of happiness. She couldn't thank her enough for what she had done. Her and Olly were finally going to be safe.