Chapter 25
Kitty’s house was, as always, immaculate.
From the polished wood floors and the cream sofa to the antique and carefully sourced furniture.
Whenever Bella mentioned anything about it, Kitty was careful to remind her that house prices had been cheaper in the early noughties when she’d first bought, and that she and Stu had combined their equity when they’d married – clearly keen to make Bella feel better.
But for the first time, Bella didn’t feel envious. Because she was now set to be a homeowner too. And not one in boring Hertfordshire but in France, somewhere brand new and timeless all at once.
‘Come in,’ her sister said. She was dressed in jeans and a T-shirt, a flash of stomach just visible when she moved. Her hair was loose and fell in a way she’d never allow it to usually, in slight untamed waves. But it suited her.
Bella walked through the perfect living room to the kitchen where white cabinets were set against black granite, and took her seat at the breakfast bar.
Kitty’s home had been a second home to her for years, even more so since Linda had appeared on the scene.
She thought for a moment how she might feel about not having her sister within a stone’s throw and felt a well of something painful, but swallowed it down.
‘Coffee?’ Kitty offered, reaching for the percolator.
‘Just instant will be fine.’ Bella found she couldn’t wait another moment to break the news; the length of time it would take for Kitty to brew one of her trademark delicious coffees was just too great.
‘So,’ her sister said, moments later, sitting down opposite her, cradling her own cup. ‘What’s up?’
‘Well, obviously you know I love France—’
‘Understatement of the century,’ Kitty grinned. ‘Yes.’
‘Well…’ Bella took a breath. ‘You know we’ve been looking at houses, but what you don’t know is that we’ve found one. And the mortgage has been approved!’
Kitty set her cup down heavily on the granite, making a sharp clicking sound. A little coffee spilled onto the counter. ‘Sorry, you’re— I mean, I knew you were having a look at things. But you’re actually going to do it?’
‘Well, yeah.’
‘Oh God, Bella.’ She reached out a hand. ‘I didn’t think— I never thought. Are you sure?’
‘I’m not a baby, you know. I’m twenty-six.’
‘I know. But—’ Kitty’s head had dropped slightly to the side. ‘Bella, this is huge.’
‘It’s exciting!’
‘Well, yes. And I’m happy for you. But—’
‘But what?’
‘I know you’re twenty-six, you’re engaged. You’re all grown up. But Bella, you’re still so young. You don’t realise—’
‘Don’t do that.’
‘Do what?’
‘Mother me.’
The word silenced them both for a second.
Kitty eyed her, as if trying to work out her next move. ‘Just hear me out, OK? You’re young, you— I realise you haven’t had much fun in your career so far. But what you’re doing is— It’s a huge thing, Bella.’
‘I am aware.’
‘And Pete’s on board? He’s up for quitting his job? Really?’
‘He’s excited too.’
‘Right.’
Bella looked at Kitty. ‘What?’
‘What do you mean, “what”?’
‘Why say that about Pete?’
Kitty sighed. ‘I’m just worried, that’s all. You know me.’
‘Yes, but why? I don’t get it. I really think I can make a brilliant life in France, Kitty. Why don’t you want me to do that?’
‘It’s not that… I just— I suppose I thought it was one of those things people say but don’t really ever get around to. It’s great. Impressive, actually. But I just worry.’
‘I know you do.’
‘And you’re sure Pete is the one?’
‘Well, yeah. If nothing else, the fact he’s willing to move to France for me should tell you something! We’re in love.’
‘Well, good. Wonderful. Congratulations.’
‘You don’t sound very sincere.’
Kitty sighed. ‘I’m sorry, Bella. I am honestly happy for you. But I can’t help being worried too. It’s my job.’
‘You don’t have to, you know. Worry about me, I mean. I’m OK.’
‘I know.’
Their eyes met for a long, gentle moment.
‘I’ll miss you, you know.’
‘Then you’d better make sure your passport is up to date, because I plan to have a spare room just for you.’