They both shut up until he was done.
“They’re good,” Ali eventually replied.
“I kept meaning to get in touch, but you know how it is. You move away, then the longer you leave it, the more difficult it is to do.”
“I’m sure she’d still like to hear from you. Not just at Christmas.”
Morgan nodded. “I will make the effort. Does she visit you in Glasgow?”
“She’s visited once in seven years. I wouldn’t hold your breath.” Ali laughed. “Scotland might as well be the moon, according to my family. But I’ll put the squeeze on her to come when I’m home. She’s due a visit, and it means she gets time on her own, which I know she craves.”
They knew so much of each other’s pasts and their families, and yet they hardly knew anything about each other. But was it worth getting to know her when this might be a one-off thing? Morgan probably had a ton of friends and a rich life in Glasgow. Would she have room for Ali? Their paths hadn’t crossed in years, which said something.
Nevertheless, they were going to be travelling together for another day, and chat was preferable to awkward silences.
Morgan obviously thought so too, as she cleared her throat.
“You said you work in apps? What are you working on right now?”
“A craft beer app so that people can locate their nearest pub or bar that serves different beers, and also they can track what they’ve drunk. Plus, they can link up with friends to see what beers and bars they rate.”
“I bet your family love that. You own three local pubs, right? I remember your dad being a huge lover of craft beer.”
Ali gulped. “You remember right.” Her stomach lurched, but she wasn’t going to be derailed. Morgan didn’t know, so her chat was what normal people did. “It’s the reason I developed it. Most of my apps are to do with hospitality. I grew up in the business, so I understand what pubs and restaurants need. I also devised one that simplifies booking systems, and another to help with staffing and recruitment, which the company sold.”
Morgan sat back. “I’m impressed. Here’s me just being a Creative Solutions Specialist. But you’re the one changing the world, one app at a time.”
“You’ve got the fancier title, though.” But it still felt good to be lauded by Morgan Scott. To have her appreciate what she did. One smile from her was still enough to send Ali’s pulse racing. To make her feel like she was 12 again. If Ali wasn’t stuck in such close proximity to her, she’d roll her own eyes at herself.
Morgan laughed. “All smoke and mirrors. Although, when I can help my clients solve their issues and move forward in a positive way, I do feel a sense of achievement. Everyone needs help to communicate. It’s the world’s number one downfall. But I think everyone deserves the chance to be heard, which is why I do my job. I’ve got clients from all walks of life, so one day is never like the next.”
“I’m sure you’re great at it. Not everyone could have talked Dave into giving us a lift, but you did. You always had the gift of the gab, and now you’re paid for your talent.”
“You’re too kind. My sister would say I’m a blabbermouth, but I prefer your assessment.”
Morgan gave her a warm smile that made Ali’s toes curl. She went to change the subject to something where she’d be more surefooted, but Morgan seemed to want to stay just where they were.
“Ali Bradford. Who would have thought you’d grow up and not always be 12?” She waved a hand. “Gorgeous, intelligent, good taste in sandwiches.” Morgan’s cheeks blushed red. “Sorry, did that come out a bit creepy? I meant it as a compliment.”
Ali’s insides heated to boiling point. She hoped beyond hope she wasn’t glowing. “I’ll take it as one, then.”
“When was the last time you were home?” Morgan asked. “I haven’t managed it since July, which my mother thinks is the crime of the century.”
“The summer.” It had been hot as well. Too hot for any occasion, especially the one Ali had been home for. She shook the thought from her head. “I’m long overdue.”
“The prodigal daughters return,” Morgan grinned.
“Something like that.”
The train slowed to a stop, and they stayed that way for a few minutes. Ali looked out the window, but could see nothing. She got her phone from her pocket and went onto Google maps. It showed they were in between Carlisle and Penrith, and that two miles to the right was a place called Snowton, where there was a Christmas festival and parade today. This she had to share.
She nudged Morgan with her elbow. It felt like something you might do to a friend. She hoped they were on their way to that.
Her 12-year-old self gave her a high five.
“I’ve got two pieces of good news for you.”
Morgan turned her head and sat up. “Hit me.”
