But the glimmer in Mum’s eyes is brighter than ever.
‘Darling, we can talk about flowers when you’re my age. I know what you’re doing. You’re trying to steer this ship back to safer ground. And it is just wonderful that you take an interest in the things I like. Recently, however, I’ve been feeling guilty. We spend so much time talking about my passions these days.’
‘Why would that make you feel guilty, Mum?’
‘Because you’ve been so wonderful, particularly after your father left us.’
Unlike me, Mum has no qualms in talking openly about what happened with Dad. Ihateto even think about it. It’s like we’re in Harry Potter and she’s the ballsy, brilliant Harry to my Neville Whatshisname. Dad is totally He Who Shall Not Be Named in my world. I flinch.
‘I just wanted you to be happy again,’ I reply quietly.
‘And Iam. I am truly, honestly, happy. And that is all thanks to you, Jazzy. You’ve given so much of your time to picking up the pieces in our world. Now it’s my turn to look out for you again. Areyouhappy?’ she asks softly.
‘Yes! Work’s alright. Mila and Ben are amazing–’
‘It’s not a resounding yes, is it?’
‘Life’s fine, Mum. I might not be swinging from the rooftops but I’m not sad. I’m just fine.’
‘Well, the good news is that I have got the perfect boy in mind for you and your dating mission!’ Mum reaches out and squeezes my hand. Her enthusiasm is very sweet, but also NO THANK YOU. ‘He name is Charlie. He’s Tiger’s nephew. Can I set you up?’
Sonof Zeus. Any nephew of Tiger’s is bound to be kind of crusty and possibly a fan of knitting his own hemp sweaters.
‘Absolutely,’ I say, too shrill. ‘Though I’m super, SUPER busy at the moment Mum. Violet. Working on my website. And there’s hopefully a job interview coming up too. Shall we leave it for a little bit until things calm down? And then. . . absolutely!’
Mum gives me a look. She can tell I’m trying to fob her off and Mum is like a dog with a bone when she wants to get her own way.
‘Of course. We’ll revisit soon. Now, here’s my napkin in case you want to rub that prawn juice off your top.’
