‘Yep.’ I recall our car journey home, Angus and I on such a high.
‘To see Pat?’ Milla goes on.
I nod, detecting Milla isn’t quite as excited about this trip as I am.
‘What if she doesn’t recognise Laurie?’
‘She will,’ I say, though realising Milla has a point. ‘She’s got to.’
‘And can you just turn up? Don’t you have to make an appointment?’
‘Angus can get us in. All we have to do is call to let them know we’re coming.’
‘What if Rochelle shows up?’ Milla seems determined to place obstacles in front of us.
‘Well, she might, but we’ll find a way.’ With Angus, anything feels possible.
‘I don’t know. It could make things worse, especially if Pat doesn’t recognise Laurie.’ Milla takes another gulp of wine.
‘Well, we think it’s worth a shot,’ I respond, noticing my defensive tone again, before caving in and pouring myself a glass. One isn’t going to do me any harm.
Milla sits down next to me. ‘Are you sure Laurie wants to meet her again?’
‘Yes,’ I insist.
‘Are you sure you’re not getting too involved?’
‘Out with it, Milla,’ I say, knowing something’s bugging her, and I don’t think this has anything to do with Laurie.
‘It’s Angus.’
‘What about him?’
‘You’re spending a lot of time with him?’
‘He’s a friend.’
‘It’s the way you talk about him.’
‘He’s a friend, that’s all.’
‘Are you sure?’
‘Positive.’
‘I’m worried about you.’
‘I’m fine. Meeting Angus and Laurie has been one of the best things I’ve ever done. Before we met, my life was so empty, Milla.’
‘I know.’ Her face softens. ‘I know it’s been great, and I love the sound of Soul Food, I’m longing to come and see it but I’m worried, OK?’
‘I’m not falling for Angus, I promise.’
She’s quiet.
‘Milla, I’m not. We’ve become good friends, that’s all.’
‘It’s…’ She frowns. ‘You’re doing everything you can to help Laurie and Angus but…’ She pauses, unsure how to continue. ‘I’m scared you’re the one who’s going to get hurt. You two hang out practically all the time.’
