Chapter28
‘Here she is.’ Kara engulfed Star in a big hug. ‘I’ve set up camp on the back window seat and am so looking forward to one of Frank’s lunches, aren’t you?’
‘Big Frank’s Burgers are on special today too, ladies,’ the Irishman called over, then went back to making coffees at the machine.
‘It’s so good to see you.’ Kara had a proper look at her friend’s face as they sat down with their drinks. ‘Are you all right? You look like you’ve been crying. Oh, mate, what’s up?’
‘Mum – and, well, my dad too.’
‘Your dad? What?’
‘He’s dead, Kar. And I know I never even knew his bloody name, but it still feels kind of weird. I’ve always hung on to the thought that even without trying to find him, I would just meet him one day.’
‘Oh my God, that’s huge,’ Kara breathed. ‘I’m so sorry. So is Estelle finally going to tell you who the mystery man is, now he’s gone?’
Star sighed. ‘Who knows what will come out of that addled mind of hers.’
Kara clasped her friend’s hand over the table. ‘Give her time. Maybe she is grieving for him in her own way.’
‘Yes, she kept on that he was the love of her life, but it was still situation normal up there. She was drunk and onthe wacky baccy. We had a huge row. It’s just so hard. I love her, but I hate her at the same time. I want her to change but I know she’s got to want to change herself. I feel so bloody responsible for her.’
‘What would happen if you suggested her getting some sort of help?’
‘Oh, Kar, you know I’ve tried.’
‘Yes, sorry.’
‘Everything is just a big drama with her, heightened by the alcohol and drugs. I worry for her health too. Saying that, I was really sick this morning. We had oysters last night – I don’t know why I agreed to eat the pesky things. Estelle even insinuated I was pregnant.’
‘Shit! Did she?’ Kara gave Star a long look. ‘Do you think you are?’
‘God, no. I can’t be.’
‘She was right with Skye though, wasn’t she, and you didn’t have a clue then either.’
‘Mate, don’t say that! I haven’t had a period for months, it’s fine.’
‘Er, isn’t that what happens?’
‘No, you know what I mean – they are so irregular. I keep thinking I must see a doctor about that too, but it’s been the same all my life. Months without. They used to say it’s because I didn’t eat enough.’
‘You’ve certainly been eating loads lately from what you tell me.’
‘I know – Conor is a bloody feeder. I need to diet. You know me, get over a size six and I start to panic.’
‘Can’t say I know the feeling.’ Kara smiled. Then she said sensibly, ‘Maybe do a test, at least that’ll put your mind at rest.’
‘I can’t even bear the thought. I know I said I wanted a baby, but be careful what you wish for and all that. It would be such bad timing. We are so not at that stage. It’s just fun at the moment. Pure fun.’
‘And there’s me hoping I will be pregnant soon. Mind you, we’ve only been trying for a few weeks.’
‘Life – it’s a funny old game sometimes, isn’t it?’ Star picked up the Specials menu and blew out a breath. ‘I don’t think I can go for a burger. I still feel a bit queasy.’
Kara ordered their food and came back to the table. ‘I know what I had to say and it’s so important. I owe you a massive apology. Conor had given Billy the money directly for your flowers. I am so sorry I doubted him. And for being a complete bitch to you at Dad’s the other day.’
‘It’s forgotten and yes, Conor is a rogue of sorts, but he’s not the sort to shit on his uncle or on his own doorstep. The more I’ve got to know him, I realise that. He’s a lovely man. Underneath all the macho exterior he’s sensitive too.’
‘Is he The One?’
