When we came before, Mum used to pick up a rental car from Bodø airport and drive us onto the vehicle ferry. At least being on foot means I can get the express boat. Just as well – I’m going to be knackered by the time I get there.

Suddenly it hits me. How can I have been so stupid? Mum isn’t here to drive me from the harbour to Mormor’s. Even if there was a taxi service on the island, which there isn’t, I couldn’t afford it. When we get to Skjebne I’ve got a long walk ahead of me – in the dark. Too late now. I haven’t got the money to go back even if I wanted.

My phone bleeps with a text from Kelly. What time you getting here hun? Hope you’ve got something sexy to wear, Darren is coming x

The party! I’d forgotten. I hate missing out, but then Kelly’s cousin Darren is the last person I want to see my face. I’ve been flirting with him on and off for about a year. We kissed at her last birthday party, and I always thought … Well, it doesn’t matter what I thought.

I text back: Sorry Kels can’t make it. On way to see Mormor. Was a last minute thing. Waiting for ferry now!

I feel bad for letting Kelly down, but I was always planning to make some excuse and bail. She thinks it’s because of how I look, but it’s not just that. I can’t face being in a room with lots of people. I’ve tried wearing gloves but it makes no difference; people’s clothes only have to brush mine for me to know their secrets.

My fingers grip my phone so hard my knuckles turn white. I can’t even go to my best friend’s party! If I don’t get rid of this thing, how am I ever going to go to university or have a life? Being able to tell things about people seems like this amazing gift, but it’s not. Not when I can’t control the flood of emotions I get. Knowing someone’s secrets doesn’t make you feel closer to them – it pushes you away. There are some things you don’t want to know, trust me.

My phone bleeps: What?! Is that a good idea? Text when u arrive. Worried about u x