‘Is this real? I don’t believe this is happening.’
There on the computer screen was an email from the organisers of the writing competition. Sam Stone had chosen her story as the winner out of thousands of entries, and this Saturday she was invited to attend a presentation and enjoy a three-course dinner at Starcross Manor. Her chest was heaving as she tried to catch her breath. ‘I need to phone Irene!’
‘That is amazing. Well done you!’ exclaimed Jenny.
‘I can’t believe it! Not only have you won but you’re going to meet Sam Stone!TheSam Stone – thelegendthat is Sam Stone!’ Pippa almost shrieked.
Elle sat there, stunned.
‘Your story’s going to be published in a magazine too!’ Pippa clapped her hands in excitement. ‘I’m so chuffed for you, my clever friend.’ She beamed, kissing both of Elle’s cheeks.
‘It’s fabulous news, Elle,’ Aiden said, also grinning. ‘Congratulations. That must have been one hell of a story.’
‘Aww, and look,’ Pippa said, running her finger across the screen. ‘You can take four guests with you.’
‘I missed that part!’ Elle exclaimed.
Pippa’s eyes twinkled as she put her hands together and pretended to pray.
Elle’s head was in a spin. Irene, of course, was her first choice, followed by Pippa, but then she had two invites left. Pippa would love to be able to take Aiden, and she wanted to take Noah, and there was Jenny too.
‘I’m so proud of you, Elle. You deserve this,’ Jenny enthused.
‘Thank you.’
‘Am I okay to share the news with Wilson?’
‘Of course,’ Elle replied. Jenny pulled out her phone and popped outside to call him.
‘Would you like to come with me, Pippa?’
‘Would I ever,’ she squealed. ‘Try and stop me!’
Then she paused.
Aiden placed his hand on the small of Elle’s back. He must have read her mind because he gave her a heart-warming smile. ‘Invite Jenny. Don’t worry about me. I’ll look forward to hearing all about it when you get home.’
‘Are you sure?’ Elle asked. ‘I feel awful.’
‘Yes, of course – but on one condition.’
‘Which is?’
He grinned. ‘Take lots of photos!’
‘I will, I promise. Thanks, Aiden!’ she said. ‘Now pass me the phone. I need to tell Irene my news!’
Aiden slid the desk phone over towards her, and with a shaky hand Elle punched in Irene’s number. She willed her to hurry up and answer it.
‘Hi,’ said Irene.
‘I have news! Fantastic news!’
‘Shush, Buddy, calm down,’ Irene said. He was barking excitedly about something. ‘News? Did you say news? What is it?’
‘Are you ready for this?’ Elle paused. ‘I’ve only gone and won the Sam Stone writing competition!’
There was silence while Irene digested what she said, then a loud cheer followed, which made Buddy begin to bark again.
