Page 60 of Tough Love

“You’re lucky he’s so nice to you.”

“I’m lucky he realises I’m enough of an asset to do those kind of things for, really.” I work hard, and it pays off. “I just hope I don’t do anything stupid that sets Briar back without realising it.”

“I’m sure you’ll nail it. He’s got your undivided attention, so I’m pretty certain he’ll be fine.”

“Truth be told, I’m looking forward to getting back to my own place. It’s weird being in Kath’s house.” I sigh, picking at my apple crumble. “It’s stupid things like what to do with his bedroom furniture that I don’t know about. Like, do I get him new stuff for a new start? Or do I take the old stuff over to my place and have him freak out because it’s not how he’s used to it?”

“Trial and error, my love. Take the old stuff, and if he doesn’t like it, buy him new things. Don’t stress about it though. I’m sure there are bound to be plenty more decisions like that you’ll have to make.”

“Yeah.” I take a moment to eat some of my food while Jess downs her tea and refills the cup from the little pot provided. “Do you think it’s weird that his father hasn’t made any contact? I mean, Mum said Kath had cut him out, but do you think it’s strange he hasn’t got in touch anyway?”

“Maybe he doesn’t know what’s happened?”

More than likely, if my parents had anything to do with it. Still doesn’t ease my irrational fear that I’m going to receive a knock on the door from my history one day.

“What will you do if he does show up?”

“Lock the door and call the police.”

I wouldn’t let the arsehole near Briar for even a second. Realisation strikes me: if this is how I feel, then maybe Kath really did understand in the end? Why else would she ban Tristan from seeing Briar?

Jess raises one eyebrow at my answer. “Bit extreme, isn’t it?”

“Not withhim.”

Her smile falls, and she looks around the café at the people beside us before leaning in to whisper, “You’re going to have to tell me more if I’m going to understand, babe.”

I stare into the eyes of my only friend and realise how right she is. I can trust this woman; know that what I tell her stays between us. “You doing anything tonight?”

“Nothing important.”

“You want to come over after I get Briar down for the night?”

Jess tips her head to the side, confusion clear in her eyes. “Sure. Why?”

“I think you’re right: it’s time I explained why it is Kath and I cut each other off.”

TWENTY-ONE

Ten years ago

Kath steps out of the car, adjusting her work uniform. Four months she’s had her job and we’ve been doing this dance. And for three of those months I’ve been living two lives.

One I act my way through, fooling all those around me. And one’s a nightmare I relive over and over, unable to find a way to escape.

I open my door as well, stepping out into the sunshine as Kath gives Tristan a full tongue and everything kiss goodbye.

“See you later, babe,” she coos, skipping off toward the department store. “See ya, Mimi.”

“Where are you going?” he asks, turning on me the moment she’s out of earshot.

“I’ll walk home today. I don’t feel that great.”

“Get in the car.”

A moment passes, life continuing around us as I stare him down, willing myself to find the strength to run.

I reach for the handle instead.

---