Right Number, Wrong Girl

“I suppose you have a point, but I feel uncomfortable throwing you to the wolves like that.”

“Cam, I’m already with the wolves. I have a bedroom in their den.”

“Well, yes, but—”

“Stay with your family after the funeral. There will still be things to do. You’ve had a really long few days, and you’ll need to be there for your mum and aunt.”

I really, really needed her to agree to do this.

It was the only way I was getting out of this unscathed.

The party was in six days, which meant she was due back in four. If I could convince her to stay away entirely, I would be able to get out of Moorhaven and Cavendish House without the truth being revealed to everyone.

It was ironic.

The very thing I was so angry about was the thing that could save my lying arse right now.

“I still feel strange about it,” Cam said. “You didn’t want to go in the first place.”

“Yes, but I’m here now, aren’t I? I’m doing the work. It’d take an entire day to go over every last detail with you as it is.” I extracted the phone and carried my tea out to the back garden. The sun was shining, and it was beautiful. “I’m managing just fine, and your mum still needs you.”

She made a noise that I couldn’t quite place. “I suppose you’re right. I have to come back the day of the party though because I have a meeting the next day.”

“So just fly to Heathrow or Gatwick and don’t worry about it here. I’ll be back the next day. I’ll leave here first thing.”

“All right. I have insurance, so I’ll change my flight. Can you send me an email with some updates at least?”

“Of course. I’ll do it today.”

“Thanks, Soph. You’re a lifesaver.”

If only she knew.

I really, really wasn’t.

“How are you doing?” I asked, getting up off the bench at the sound of a car approaching. “How’s your mum?”

“Well, all things considered. I’m just mostly glad we were here, and we were able to say goodbye,” Cam replied. “I think that made it a little easier.”

“Definitely.” I walked around the side of the house and caught sight of Helena’s car parked up outside the gate. “Did Ollie make it there?”

“Yeah, he got here last night. He’ll stay for the funeral and maybe a couple of extra days now if I’m staying.”

“You should ask him.”

“I think I will. Thanks, Soph.”

“You’re welcome. I’d say anytime, but I’d rather we not make this a habit.” I waved at Helena.

She laughed. “All right. I have to go and help sort out Grandma’s things. I’ll talk to you later.”

“Okay.”

“Make sure to email me.”

“I will, I will!” I laughed, and we said our goodbyes approximately eight times each before we finally hung up.

Helena grinned at me. “Who was that?”