Riley
“There’s someone here for you.”
Ray pops his head into the store cupboard while I’m trying to drag out some Christmas decorations.
“For me?” I ask, a big box in my hands.
“She’s waiting for you in your office,” he says mysteriously before disappearing.
I bring the box with me – it had to go to the entrance anyway. It’s almost Christmas, and even though we’ll be closed for a few days, the theatre should be decorated properly. I’m not crazy about Christmas, I don’t have any amazing memories, but people like a holiday atmosphere and I do what I can to keep the place up to expectations.
“Karen?” I look at her in confusion. “What are you doing here?”
“I was in town and thought I’d stop by and say hi.”
“Good, I’m glad.” I set the box on the desk and brush my hands on my jeans. She hugs me affectionately, then lets go.
“Have a seat,” I say, pointing to a chair. “Can I get you something to drink?”
“Oh no, thanks, I’m just passing by...”
I sit down across from her.
“I love this place,” she says, looking around.
“I do too.”
“It seems like just the place for you.”
I smile. “Thank you.”
“Do you like what you do?”
“Very much,” I light up. “Sometimes I still can’t believe I work here. I got lucky.”
“I’m sure you deserve it, dear, and even more,”
“That’s kind of you to say.”
“I know what I feel and what I hear. My Ian never would have set eyes on you if it weren’t like that.”
Her words are embarrassing, but at the same time leave me inexplicably happy.
“To be honest with you, I also stopped by to ask you something.”
“Sure thing, what is it?”
“What are you doing for Christmas?”
Her question catches me off guard.
“Er, I really…”
“Will you be spending it with your family?” she asks cautiously.
I take a deep breath. “We’re alone, it’s just me and my brother.”
Compassion shadows her face.
