Karen stifled a sigh. She’d already been accosted by Henry Liu about the same article. “We do have a problem with the amount of cheap plastic that’s sold in town and then dumped on the beach and in the lakes.”

“At least she’s channeling her disappointment and anger into something worthwhile.”

Karen huffed. “I’d be happier if she was back in Melbourne. I’m furious with Lawrence and the Cahills. It was Alice who took their dingy art catalog from a small affair to a beautiful glossy magazine. It was the first time in her life she was leading not following. Now, she’s lost her confidence and you know Alice …”

Hilary nodded, understanding written all over her face. “I know you still worry about her, but look how far she’s come since she was a little girl with a squint and a wobbly gait.”

“Those were the easy fixes.” Karen’s mind slid to the terrifying months when Alice was fourteen, withdrawn and refusing to go to school. A time Karen watched her like a hawk, constantly fearful Alice might hurt herself.

“You’ve had a tough time recently with both twins having their hearts broken in different ways. It puts my worries about Dan ever meeting a nice girl in perspective. But dear Lord, I deserve grandchildren. I don’t suppose we can match him up with Alice?”

“Unlikely. They’ve known each other since they were kids and Alice isn’t really Dan’s type,” Karen said diplomatically. She was very fond of Dan but he wasn’t right for Alice. He worked hard and played hard and charmed his way through life—usually with young willowy model types ten years his junior. “But Alice’s started dating again, so I’m trying to take that as a good sign instead of another reason not to return to her life in Melbourne. I just wish she’d get a job that uses her talents.”

“Actually, that’s what I wanted to talk to you about. Summerhouse just called and they’ve got some funding. They’re looking for someone to help a group of frail oldies—” Hilary consulted the note in her hand, “—‘Scrapbooking as a way of connecting to the past and fostering memory and wellbeing.’ Personally, I’d be worried they’d cut themselves with the Stanley knife! Anyway, it’s arty and I immediately thought of Alice.”

The jobs that matched Alice’s skills, and provided the opportunities for her to reach her potential and achieve the sense of wellbeing she needed, only existed in big cities. That’s why Alice had lived in Melbourne for a decade. That’s why Karen wanted her to return. The longer Alice delayed, the more confidence she’d lose, and unlike Libby, Alice didn’t have any reserves in that department.