I walk to the kitchen, put the kettle on and find the tea. Usually I’d have a coffee; actually, that’s a lie. I’d be helping myself to a share of the wine. But baring that, I’d be making coffee. I’m sure drinking coffee has contributed to my problems sleeping over the years, but ever since my final year in school, it’s been one of my biggest weapons in the fight to succeed. I’d make a strong coffee when most people were heading to bed, then sit down to study. Then three or four coffees later, I’d realize it was four o’clock in the morning and I’d make myself lie down for a few hours’ sleep before my alarm went off. Now, coffee in the evening is a habit. Well, it was until four months ago when I went cold turkey. I still have the cravings, though. Especially when I’m worked up.

My phone rings as I’m pouring water into two mugs. It’s still in my handbag hanging on the back of the kitchen door. I dig it out, read “private number” and answer.

“Hello?”

“Hi, Trish, it’s William.”

There’s a long pause where I hold my breath.

“Your brother.”

“Hi,” I manage.

Holy shit! My brother is calling me. How did he get my number?

“You’re not the easiest of people to track down.”

I can’t tell by his tone if this is an accusation or a mere observation.

It’s my turn to speak, but I don’t know what to say.

William clears his throat loudly, reminding me of our father. I’m expecting a clipped command.

“Trish, this is going to sound odd, but I’m standing outside your front door.”

The phone starts to slip from my hand and I grip it tightly.

“I’m sorry?”

“I’m outside your house. Any chance I could come in?”

My heart is beating so rapidly, I think I’m going to pass out. My brother. Here. It makes no sense.

“Um, sure.” I hang up and slowly walk out into the hallway.

“Who were you talking to?” Lily calls, spotting me from the living room.

I look at her in a daze.

“Trish?”

My three friends leap up and gather around me.

“What’s going on?” Emma asks, gripping my arm.

“My brother is standing outside my front door,” I whisper.

“Your brother?” Mags squeals.

“Which one?” Lily demands.

“Will,” I mutter.

“Do you think we should let him in?” asks Mags.

I nod again. “Probably.”

Lily steps towards the door, but I pull her back.

“I’ll do it,” I whisper. “You guys go sit down.”

Reluctantly, they slink back into the living room and I take the five seemingly endless steps to the front door.

When I open it, my brother is facing away from me, looking across the street.

He spins around. “Hey, sis.”