I don’t think I want to go to South America. It looks like fun but it’s pretty hardcore. And you need to learn Spanish. We should go somewhere easy first. New Zealand has mountains too and they speak English and have cute accents and the chocolate is better than Australian chocolate because the weather is colder so they don’t need to put anti-melting stuff in it.

Did you get invited to Bec’s party? I don’t really want to go but I will if you do.

Love you loads, L xx

PS You know you can just ask me how I am. You don’t need to send me postcards. (I’m fine. I promise. Mum wants me to see a counsellor but I am okay, thank you for asking. You don’t need to worry. Promise.)

PPS Did you know Amsterdam has eight wooden drawbridges? And like a thousand ‘coffee’ shops, if you get my drift. xxx

That was the first one. She’d run out of room and the postscripts ran under the address and then curled up the side and around the stamp. I could only look at it for so long before it hurt my eyes.

From the bottom of the pile I pulled out a panorama of orange dirt and turquoise ocean.

Caitie,

Where are you? You’re not answering your phone and you missed coffee. Gus asked about you. He likes you—poor fool. I rang your work and they said you were off sick. Hope it’s not this flu that’s going round. It’s brutal.

Thanks for coming on Saturday. I know it wasn’t really your scene—I hope no-one bored you with too much accountant talk.

I hope you feel better soon. Let’s have dinner this week. Call me. L xx

PS Did you know the world’s largest oyster pearl ever was found in Broome? In 1861.

xxx

A breeze brushed the back of my neck and I shivered, suddenly freezing. I put Broome back in the pile, then Amsterdam. I pulled Bali from my pocket and looked at it for a long time before turning it over. I knew it would be the same sprawling, swimming handwriting, tilting up as it went, but the sight of it still made my breath hitch.

Dear Caitlin,

I know we don’t really do this anymore, but I’ve been trying to call you and you’re not answering. I guess you’re busy with work and everything, but I have news, and I want you to know first. We’re getting married!!! About time, right? I’m so excited and happy and I hope you are too!!

I miss you. Call me. Please.

Lina xx

PS Did you know Bali is ‘Australia’s most popular choice for a destination wedding’? Well, now you do. November 18. Save the date. Book your flights.