Chapter 1

‘Are you kids going to be ok without us for the weekend?’

‘Of course, mum. You act as if we are teens again!’ Jennifer felt bemused, knowing that she was very capable of looking after herself at the ripe old age of twenty-seven, and Craig, her stepbrother, was even older!

‘Please, mum, don’t worry. Just enjoy your surprise weekend away.’ Jennifer was keen for her mother to relax and enjoy herself with Dan, her stepfather. She knew her mother deserved it after all she had been through in the past year.

‘I know I shouldn’t worry, and you are both more than old enough to look after yourselves, but perhaps it is just me getting sentimental after my health scare. It’s not often I get the luxury to spend time with my close family altogether in one place. Everyone is so busy with life, especially you, Craig. It’s nice to get you away from the city and your high-powered job!’

‘Lucy, I know I have not been great with keeping in contact with Dad and yourself,’ said Craig. He had the good sense to look guilty at his stepmother’s concerned words. ‘But I promise that I will make changes from now on to ensure I get to spend more time with you folks. And don’t forget—I am not leaving just yet. I will be waiting for you when you get back from your weekend away. I have booked off on holiday at work for two weeks so we can catch up on anything you would like us to.’

‘Two whole weeks,’ Jennifer immediately responded sarcastically, then kicked herself for speaking so loosely without thinking, when they both looked at her in the room disapprovingly.

‘That will be nice; I am looking forward to hearing all about your crazy life in London when we get back.’ Her mother patted Craig on the shoulder gently, demonstrating that she cared for him. Jennifer could not help feeling slightly bitter. She did not think Craig deserved so much attention after his long absences and virtually no visits to their former family home.

‘Lucy, love, are we ready to leave? I want to be early for our check in at the Hotel.’ Dan walked into the room, carrying two small bags of luggage.

‘Yes, I am ready. Jennifer and Craig have just assured me that they will be fine by themselves alone for the weekend.’