Page 21 of Fast Track to Forever
I cut through the nausea and video call Auntie Gem who picks up straight away. She looks older. Dare I say frailer?
I put on a cheery face. “How's my favourite aunt doing?”
“I've called you and left you tons of messages, Kat. Why have you been ignoring me?”
I sigh. She caught me there. “I've been very busy, auntie. Plus the time zone difference. I'm sure you've been busy with the pre-Christmas rush as well.”
She makes a non-committal noise. “When are you coming back, Kat? I need you here.”
I sigh and decide to tell the truth. “Well, auntie, don't know how to tell you this but my mum and dad really want me to stay here and help out with the flour mill. You know what dad is like.” I start twirling with my hair.
“And what doyouwant?”
I bite my lip and stay silent.
“And what about that boy with the red curly hair? He's a race car driver or something glamorous.” She harrumphs.
Oh oh. Things are even worse than I thought if even auntie who doesn't give a fig about Social Media has heard about me and Will.
I clear my throat. “We were childhood friends. He's visiting family, and…” My voice trails.
“You can't be serious, Kat. I bet he's got models on speed-dial. He's going to go back to his yachts, fast cars and luxury, and discard you like a used chewing gum wrapper.”
“That's what dad said as well,” I whisper.
“Quite rarely does that man talk sense but this time I agree with him.” Auntie Gem never forgave my dad for taking her little sister away to the other side of the world - New Zealand.
“Anyway, take care and Merry Christmas, sweetheart. The sooner you can come back, the better. The shop needs you. I need you.”
My aunt's plea makes my chest twinge. I'm getting pulled in so many different directions.
“Merry Christmas, auntie. Take care!”
The voice call disconnects, and I check my phone. A brief text from Will.
Will: I'm sorry.
Kat: It's ok
It's totallynotok. Are there people outside my house? Are they stationed outside the lodge? Are they following us around? Or was it just someone opportunistic? Who would do such a thing? It’s a small town.
Will: Are you ok? What about your folks?
Kat: I'm ok. A bit miffed. Even my aunt in England asked me about it. Anyway. My parents are still grumpy. I'll do my best to turn them around. Maybe after Christmas I can help them out at the flour mill
Will: …
He's been typing a long time. Those three dots are mesmerising. Is he really writing or writing and deleting? The message finally comes through:
Will: Okay. We’ll see what happens. Nighty night.
All that time writing and he just sends a few words?
Kat: Nighty night.
Will: I miss you. When can I see you again?
Kat: I'll try for Christmas day. Have something to give you.
