“Sure. Go. Be with your family. We’re good.”
“Thanks, man. Can you tell Max what's happening? I tried knocking to wake him up, but he’s not answering.”
“He’s probably dead to the world. Don’t worry. I’ll talk to him.”
“Cheers. Tell Ozzie I’ll bring his friends back as soon as I can.”
“I will.”
We grasp hands and he brings me in for a hug. “I’ll call you when I know more,” he says, slapping me on the back.
“Whenever you can. No worries.” I scratch my head and wander back to bed. Poor Sue. I hope she’s all right. I guess this gives me time to spend with my boy, which is just what we both need.
Considering there’s still no word from Chelsea, I should try to get in touch with her too. I’m mad she hasn’t called, but I’m also worried Ozzie will forget who she is, even if Chelsea wants to forget about him.
Ozzie, Connie, and I sit around the breakfast table chatting away when Angie breezes in through the back door with Josh holding her hand.
“Good morning, Graham family,” she says. “How is everyone?”
I get up from my seat and nearly fall back down at the sight of her. She’s wearing a simple white strappy dress, fitted around her top, but all flowing and hippy-chick around the bottom. “We’re good. How are you feeling today? Anybetter?” I ask, with open arms. I can’t stop smiling, and Connie smirks when she looks at me.
Angie drops Josh’s hand and falls into my waiting embrace. “I’m better than yesterday, but still a little tired.”
“Any reason?” I ask. She gazes up at me for a split second. She’s beautiful.
“I got an early morning call from Calla.”
“About her grandmother? Yeah, Ash woke me up too. I just hope she’s okay.”
“You and me both,” Angie half smiles. “And how are you, Connie?” she says, turning around to face her.
“I’m fine, thank you, Mrs Knox. I’m looking forward to working with you and Josh.”
“Oh, you’ve already talked about it?” she says, looking my way.
“Yeah. Last night when I got home. Connie’s happy to help.”
Connie glances briefly at Angie, her lips in a tight smile. They’ve met a few times before, but they’ve got to get to know one another.
Angie crouches down in front of her son. “Did you hear that, Josh? Connie is going to be taking care of you sometimes.”
“Does that mean Agatha isn’t coming back?” His big blue eyes are so wide as they look up at his mum.
“That’s right, darling. She’s not coming back.”
He practically jumps into her arms. “Thank you, Mummy.”
Once Josh has stopped hugging his mum so tight, he glances over to Connie who grins towards him. “We’re going to have so much fun. Right, Josh?”
He nods enthusiastically. They’ve already spent a littletime together at Calla’s. “Can we go to the beach after school today?” he asks her.
“If that’s okay with your mum,” Connie says hopefully.
“Um, are you sure you’re not too busy?” There’s uncertainty in Angie’s voice, but this has got to be hard for her. She barely knows Connie, but is trusting her purely on my recommendation. I’m sure she’ll feel better the more she gets to know her.
“Yes, I’d love to if you’re okay with it,” Connie replies with a beaming smile.
“And me. Can I come too?” Ozzie shrieks.
