Page 17 of Lost in Love

“Anna, I promise you I will do my best for your father.”

“A lot of doctors say they will do their best, but when it comes down to it, their best just isn’t good enough.”

“Well, I hope to reassure you that that’s not me. Have you tried getting a small network of locals together to help you? Neighbours? Your father must be loved within the community.”

“He is, but people make promises and break them. They have their own lives, their own problems to deal with. I’ve learnt that we’re better off on our own.”

“Well, you need to start trusting more. I’m going to give you my mobile number. Give me your phone.” Katherine asked, holding her hand out.

Anna took out her phone and handed it to her. “You are bossy.”

“I am. Don’t cross me.”

Anna laughed, tucking her hair behind her ear.

Katherine tapped at the phone and passed it back. “Look, I may be your father’s doctor, but I’d really like to be your friend. If you can squeeze me into your hectic schedule.”

“I’d like that,” Anna replied, trying to withhold a smile but failing miserably.

“Good. Us lesbians need to stick together.”

“Oh, are you…” Anna started to question unconvincingly.

Katherine nudged her with her body.

“As if you didn’t know,” Katherine interrupted her to save her any embarrassment. “I told Gloria over a week ago; everyone in the village knows by now.”

Anna smiled. “Maybe avoid the phrasestick togethernext time.”

Katherine thought for a moment and then pulled a face. “Drink your tea. It’s good for you. No more coffee.”

Anna did as she was told. “Not bad, but I can’t promise you’ll convert me.”

“How many coffees do you have a day?”

“It was about eight, I suppose, but since I started taking the tablets, I’ve reduced it as instructed.”

“Good, keep going. That much coffee could be the cause of your high blood pressure. That and stress, but the latter we seem to be able to do less about… for the moment anyway.”

“We?” Anna questioned.

“Yes, we’re friends now, and friends help each other, right?”

Anna smiled and nodded her agreement.

Katherine stood. “Come on, Virginia. You can walk me home.”

Anna lifted Virginia from her lap and passed her to Katherine.

“Remember, call me any time,” Katherine called out as she walked away, chuffed that she had finally broken through Anna’s outer defences.