Christine's eyes softened. ‘Of course, love. What's on your mind?’
Georgina took a deep breath. ‘It's about Matt. You remember me telling you how we met? When he helped push my car to his garage when it broke down?’
Christine nodded, a knowing smile playing on her lips. ‘Ah, yes. Quite the knight in shining armour, wasn't he?’
Georgina felt a blush creep up her cheeks. ‘Well, since then, we've become...close. Our friendship is growing rather quickly. He's been so supportive with the charity event planning, and there's definitely a connection between us. But...’
‘But?’ Christine prompted gently.
‘But I'm scared,’ Georgina admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. ‘Last night, we were collecting donations, and we ran into Veronica Hayes. You remember her from my school days?’
Christine's brow drew together sharply. ‘I do remember her. She’s that awful girl who used to bully you. I’ve seen her around the bay but thank goodness she doesn’t come here to get her hair done, otherwise I don’t think I’d be able to not bring the bullying in conversation and make her remorseful for her past interactions with you.’ Georgina’s brow furrowed. She was grateful Christine felt so protective of her, but also thankful Veronica didn’t use Christine’s salon. The last thing she wanted was for Christine to dredge up the past. ‘What's she got to do with Matt?’
Georgina recounted the previous evening's events—Veronica's flirting, Matt's apparent reciprocation, and the jealousy that had flared up inside her.
‘Oh, sweetheart,’ Christine said, reaching out to squeeze Georgina's hand. ‘First of all, you look exhausted. Are you getting enough rest?’
Georgina shook her head ruefully. ‘Not really. Between all my jobs and the event planning, I'm stretched pretty thin at the moment.’
‘That's probably not helping matters,’ Christine said gently. ‘Lack of sleep can make everything seem worse than it is. But let's talk about Matt. Do you really think he was flirting back, or could it be that your old insecurities about Veronica were colouring your perception?’
Georgina bit her lip, considering Christine’s words. ‘I-I'm not sure. Matt said I had nothing to worry about, but...’
‘But you're still worried,’ Christine finished for her. ‘Georgina, love, it's natural to feel vulnerable when you're starting to care for someone. Especially given everything you're juggling right now. But from what you've told me about Matt, he seems like a genuine, caring person. Don't let ghosts from your past ruin what could be a beautiful future.’
Georgina nodded slowly, turning Christine's words over in her mind. ‘You're right. I know you're right. It's just...hard to silence those doubts sometimes.’
Christine smiled sympathetically. ‘Of course it is. But that's part of opening your heart to someone. It's scary, but it can also be wonderfully rewarding. I had the same doubts and insecurities when the friendship between your father and I developed into something more.’
Georgina’s nodded her understanding. ‘And I didn’t help matters much did I, with my protective streak towards Dad?’
Christine laughed and reached for Georgina’s hand, squeezing it. ‘It was your natural instinct. I’m just glad you warmed to the thought of me caring for him in a different way.’
Georgina gave Christine a loving smile. ‘So am I, because you are the best thing that has happened to him in years.’
Christine’s bottom lip trembled. ‘I appreciate that. Thank you...and your dad is the best thing that has happened to me.’
They both looked at each other, affection clearly etched on their faces.
Georgina sighed. ‘I'm supposed to meet Matt after work to practice for our performance for the event. We’ll be performing as a duo. He’s playing guitar and I’m singing.’
‘Wow. That’s sounds wonderful.’
Georgina shrugged with a grimace. ‘But part of me wants to cancel. To protect myself, you know?’
Christine shook her head firmly. ‘Absolutely not. You go to that practice, Georgina Shelley. Don't let fear hold you back from something that could be amazing.’
Georgina nodded. ‘I know. You’re right Christine.’
Christine nodded with a smile and sipped her tea.
As Georgina finished her lunch, she felt some of the weight lift from her shoulders. Christine's advice had helped clear her mind, even if some doubts still lingered.
‘Thank you, Christine,’ she said, standing up to leave. ‘I don't know what I'd do without you.’
Christine stood up as well and pulled her into a warm hug. ‘That's what family is for, dear. And remember, you don't have to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders. It's okay to lean on others sometimes.’
As Georgina made her way back to Ruff to Regal, she felt a new resolve forming. She would go to the practice with Matt. She would open herself up to the possibility of something more, despite her fears. And maybe, just maybe, she would learn to trust not just Matt, but herself as well.
