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Riley smiled. ‘I guess that makes you my Laurie.’

‘Should we try to change the end of the story?’

‘What about “Amy” and her hurdle training and her medals and her “fun” side?’

Zach grinned. ‘“Amy” is lovely, but I’ve had enough “fun”. I miss Jo. I want Jo back.’

‘But Laurie really seemed to like Amy.’

‘He did, but Amy is a bit boring and all about herself. Laurie now realizes that Jo is the one he wants to be with.’

‘Jo is having a really shit time and can’t take any more knocks. Laurie needs to be absolutely positive about this. He can’t change his mind and run back to Amy – because Jo can’t take it.’

‘He is positive. He will never hurt Jo and he wants to be there for her, to help her and comfort her.’

‘He has to accept Jo – her love of books and serious issues.’

‘He does. He misses her lectures.’ Zach grinned. ‘But Jo has to respect that Laurie’s high jump is very important to him.’

‘Jo will never, ever make fun of it and totally respects it. She will cheer him on.’

‘Laurie has missed being challenged.’

‘Jo has missed … well, she’s missed everything.’

Zach reached out and took Riley’s hand. ‘The end.’

Week Three

41

Mia walked her class to the church, which was just around the corner from the school. Beside her was Vanessa Dixon, the other second form teacher.

‘Good to see you back. How are you?’ Vanessa asked.

‘I’m getting there,’ Mia lied.

‘I believe your sister is still very unwell. I’m so sorry.’

‘Thanks, Vanessa.’

Vanessa looked uncomfortable. Oh, no – had Adam said something to her? Mia’s stomach lurched.

‘Actually, Mia, I’m worried about Izzy. She’s very withdrawn and she’s developed this habit of cleaning her glasses all the time. She does it at least ten times a day in class. She gets very upset if they’re not perfectly clean.’

‘I think it’s just her way of trying to control things while her mum is gone. It’s a really difficult time. If you can just continue to support her and keep a close eye on her, I’d really appreciate it. She’s confused and upset.’

Vanessa placed a hand on Mia’s arm. ‘Of course. I’m very fond of Izzy. She’s a gorgeous girl. I’ll help her in any way I can. Don’t worry.’

‘Thanks, that really does mean a lot.’

Mia turned away from Vanessa and busied herself ushering her class into the church, making sure the children who were reading prayers sat at the end of the pews.

Vanessa called them up one by one and they all read beautifully. Clearly, they’d been practising at home with proud parents.

As Mia and Vanessa ran through the Communion mass timetable, the children giggled, shuffled and wriggled in their seats. All except Izzy. Izzy sat still, looking small and sad.

When the practice was over and the children all rushed out of the church into the sunshine, Mia went to Izzy. ‘Hello, sweetie, are you OK?’