I can’t shake the sadness I feel at the distance between us. I wonder how Mum and Dad reacted when Hannah broke the news. I know they will be concerned that she’s following in my footsteps, but we are two very different personalities. What we do have in common is that we’re both rather stubborn; it’s Owen who is more amenable and I guess being bossed around by his sisters, he learnt to be a little more laid-back.

‘It’s wonderful. Sunny. Friendly people and I’m feeling more relaxed than I have done in a long time.’

‘That’s awesome. You needed to chill out a bit.’

I remember only too well the invincibility I felt as a teenager and truly believing those who disagreed with me weren’t living life to the full. An age thing, I remember thinking, whereas I was young and full of eternal optimism. Nothing was going to spoil my dream of the perfect life stretching out before me.

‘I’ve discovered that I’m an abstract artist at heart, so be warned. There will be changes when I get home as I’ll be swapping those mass-produced, chain-store pieces with the real thing.’

‘Wow. And I thought Aiden was being the brave one, heading off to far-flung destinations. Now I discover my sister is turning into one of those artsy folk. I hope Aiden’s prepared for all this when you get back.’

As we say our goodbyes, I can’t help agreeing with her sentiments.

11

A Frisson of Excitement

‘That was very good. Aside from a few nerves at the start, Kellie and Taylor sounded like a real duo. Do you think Kellie sings?’

Nico swings open the heavy oak door to the château and holds it ajar for me. As I step through, I remember my phone is switched off and I quickly turn it back on.

‘I’m guessing she does, but whether she’ll let down her guard enough to give it a go, who knows? She was very comfortable playing, though. It was good to see and everyone enjoyed it.’

‘You didn’t want to stay for the karaoke?’ Nico gives me a sideways glance.

‘Um, let me think about that for a second… that would be a no.’

He laughs. ‘I don’t think you’re in the mood, anyway. You seem a little down tonight. Missing home?’

Nico stops to push open the door to his studio and I walk on ahead, immediately taking a deep breath in. Little prickles begin to run up my spine. It isn’t just the overwhelming smell of the paint, but the reality hits that I’m going to create something that will, hopefully, end up on a wall at home.

‘I’m fine, really. I was wondering how easy is it to get canvases sent over to the UK?’