Page 5 of Another Lucky Number

‘Yes. I just kind of fell into my career path because in Edinburgh, Financial Services is a core industry, but… sorry to say it… it’s dull as dishwater – to me anyway. I don’t want to wake up when I’m seventy and feel like I’ve wasted my life. The idea of that terrifies me. I also know it’s a bit of a cliché, and probably unrealistic, but I want to be one of those people who doesn’t see their job as work because they love it that much. And I know my mum thinks my idea to find my dream career is “codswallop” but if I don’t try, I’ll definitely prove her right, won’t I?’

‘That is true,’ Cat concedes.

‘So, maybe we could throw around some ideas during this trip and see where we get to.’

‘All right, that I can work with.’ Amber has perked up significantly. ‘What are you thinking… voice over artist… air traffic controller?’

‘Ha, neither of the above,’ I say. ‘I meant throw around somerealisticideas. And the answer is: I just don’t know, but we have days ahead of us to figure it out, so get your thinking caps on.’

With this gauntlet thrown down, we fall into contemplative silence.

‘What do youthinkyou’re looking for?’ Cat asks eventually. ‘I don’t mean the job title, but the type of work, the skills it uses, the experiences it will give you?’

I quickly chew and swallow. ‘Good question. I guess I’m open to learning a whole new skill set, even studying part-time, but it would be good if I could use some of the skills I’ve already got. I’d say non-corporate, or if it’s an office-based job, one in an industry that’s got a bit about it. Somewhere I’d be excited to show up to each day – whether virtually or in person. There wasn’t much opportunity for that where I was previously.’

We continue to chat while we eat our meal, and contrary to Cat’s concern, I find that I feel energised by the conversation. I’d never want the life of a socialite. It’s just not me. But having a temporary financial cushion does really help because I won’t feel pressured into taking the first job I can find when I get back. I have a bit of time to nail this down and find a career that’s right for me. I know how lucky that makes me, and I’m not going tosquander the opportunity.

As soon as we’ve finished eating, Amber’s already onto what’s next.

‘Right, let’s take this party down town. See what the nightlife’s like.’

Cat and I look at each other.

‘You don’t actually meandown town, as in Nassau, do you?’ I say.

‘Yeah, why not?’

‘Because we’ve got five bars here on the resort. We haven’t been to them all yet, and as we’re all-inclusive, everything’s essentially free. Why would we want to go out?’

‘Because it’ll be fun. We need to experience this island properly and that’s one way to do it.’

‘I guess that’s not such a bad idea,’ I say.

Cat looks apprehensive. ‘Is it…safe? I read on the gov.uk site that there’s a risk of getting robbed or assaulted.’

‘It says that about everywhere.’ Amber throws Cat a condescending look. ‘Happens to the absolute minority. Don’t be such a wimp.’

‘If we stick together and take a taxi there and back, I’m sure we’ll be just fine,’ I reassure Cat.

‘Yeah, and if anyone tries anything, they’ll have me to deal with,’ says Amber.

Cat and I look our pint-sized, auburn-haired friend up and down, and share an unconvinced look. Though she’s got a reasonable bark for a chihuahua.

‘OK, then, why not.’ Cat seems to relax a little. ‘Could be fun.’

‘That’s the spirit,’ hoots Amber. ‘Let’s go.’

We throw back the last mouthfuls of our drinks and head out of the restaurant.

Chapter Three

‘This is freakin’ amazing!’ Amber is like an excited toddler as we emerge from the taxi near the waterfront in Nassau.

There are several bars around us, all brightly lit and filled to bursting point, a mix of music filtering across the tropical breeze, from more mainstream pop music to the heavy bass of reggae. The atmosphere is infectious and it’s not long before we’re mirroring Amber’s enthusiasm.

‘Didn’t I tell you?’ she calls over her shoulder. ‘This is what it’s about. The resort is awesome –obviously– but we have to do some of this too.’

‘Agreed,’ Cat and I reply in unison.

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