“I did. I think the board will be impressed. You’ve really come through. I hope Kat appreciates it.”
I inhale and smile. Even hearing her name makes my breath catch. I need to get a grip.
I stretch, wishing I hadn’t forgone this morning’s swim, but I didn’t want to face Caleb over breakfast. The downside of staying with one of my best friends. If I’m spending more time here, I’m going to need to find a place to stay long-term. Caleb and April have been very generous, but I don’t want to overstay my welcome.
My grandma always said, “Visitors and fish stink after three days.”
Caleb heads to the door, turning as he reaches it.
“I’ll leave you alone to catch up, but I wondered what you’re doing for Christmas?”
“Mum and Peter have invited Dad and me to spend Christmas with them.”
Caleb’s eyebrows almost reach his hairline, and he chokes on the air he’s just inhaled.
“That’s a bit of a change from when they split.”
No one was more surprised than me.
“And your dad has agreed?”
“According to him, it’s about time they buried the hatchet.”
Caleb chuckles. “As long as it’s not in each other.”
“That’s what I’m worried about. All I can say is it’s going to be an interesting Christmas.”
Although both my parents have mellowed over the past eighteen years, I’m still on tenterhooks. This will be the first timethey’ve been in the same space for an extended period. The fact that Mum and Peter invited us gives me some hope. The fact that my father didn’t turn them down, even more so.
“I wish you luck. You know there’s always a spare bed at Mum’s if you need to make your escape. She’d love to see you. Especially as Pen and Eli are going to be staying in his cottage this year with Lottie.”
I nod, although being that close to Kat, and not being able to touch her, I’d be playing with fire. Kat made it very clear where I stand. I’m not sure I’m ready for that.
“How is Simon doing on the latest development plans?” I ask, wanting to change the subject.
Caleb smiles. “Really well. He’s fitted in with the rest of the team. He was a good choice. He’s not you, but he’s learning and adaptive… a close second, I’d say.”
“I’m pleased. I was going to pop down and see him later. I’ve tried to step back and not crowd him.”
“I imagine it’s hard when you’ve always held a tight rein.”
“You have no idea, but it’s what needs to happen. It’s either that, or Lockwood Architects stops expanding, and that’s not the aim.”
“Keep that in mind when temptation hits,” he says, with another grin. “Catch you later.”
Caleb leaves, and I sink back into my chair.
Spinning to face the window, I rest my arms on the armrests, steepling my hands in front of my face, my forefingers touching my lips.
I need to get myself under control before I see Kat tomorrow.
The latest report was sent across this morning. Although the ideas in the proposal are as much hers as they are mine, so I’m not sure what I’m hoping for.
She hasn’t replied.
I’m not sure what to expect or what rules we’re playing by, but I promised her I’d be professional, and I will.
Kathryn Frazer has taken up too much of my emotional headspace for far too long. It’s now time to shut it down and get on with living my life.
