Chapter 17
The Next Day
Kat
I take a deep, shuddering breath as I try to calm my racing thoughts. The anti-anxiety meditation podcast needs to work its magic tonight. With a reassuring touch on my mother's arm, I try to ease the tension in my parents’ living room. "We finally figured out what happened with the flour mill fiasco and those terrible one-star reviews."
My mum's hand tightens around my dad's as he looks down with a grim expression. "Darling, it upsets your father to even talk about it."
"I know, mum, but we have to address this." I glance at Will for support, and he gives me a reassuring nod. Will’s knee touches mine on the sofa.
"Mum, Aunt Gem paid cousin Nikos to place that mouse on the factory floor. She even called pest control."
"What? That's preposterous. I don't believe it." My mother wipes away a few tears with her handkerchief.
"She did it because she didn't want me to stay and help with the flour mill. She wanted me to go back to York."
"Sounds like one of her ridiculous schemes,” my dad interjects bitterly.
Tears continue to fall from my mother's eyes. "Is this all because she hates me?"
"No, mum, I don't think she fully understood the consequences of her actions."
"Regardless.” My father’s tone is final and resolute. “This changes nothing about Will and his family. We do not approve of you two being together."
Will starts to say something but then closes his mouth and stands, offering me his hand. "Thank you for your time, Mr. and Mrs. Featherstone. We won't take up any more of it. We'll be in touch soon. Come on, Kat."
Gripping my handbag tightly, I stand up and take Will's hand with determination. "Love you," I tell my parents, but they are too stunned to respond.
Once we are outside on the front step, I purse my lips . "That didn't go well. Maybe we should try talking to your parents."
Will's eyes narrow with determination. "I have an idea."