He’s offering accommodation and meals.
I’ll help in the kitchen, just like I do here.
Said he wanted to hire someone before the summer.
That’s when the restaurant hits peak season.
As much as I hate leaving before Christmas, it’s a rare opportunity.
Would be much harder to find a city job on my own.
“He's a hard worker,” Beth had said.
I’d overheard their video chat a few weeks ago.
“Best kitchen hand I've ever had. Strong, fit lad with a heart of gold.”
“Righto. And he’s punctual?”
“Very. Super organised. Tidy and efficient. Won't give you any trouble.”
She’d given me a look as she said that last bit.
Raising an eyebrow, as if to make sure I’d hold up my end of the deal.
I know how lucky I am.
I won’t mess this up.
So here we stand, eight minutes before departure.
We’re pretending that neither of us are on the verge of tears.
One last hug, and then I’m off.
I climb the stairs of that bus, just as I wanted to do the first time I saw it.
When we finally pull away from the curb, I press my forehead against the window.
Smaller, smaller, smaller.
I watch Beth shrink to the size of a jelly bean.
???
Would it be lame to call her before I’ve even reached the first town?
I make myself wait.
Made it to Charleville, I text just before midnight.
My phone buzzes within minutes.
Sleep well, love,she replies.I've booked a flight for Christmas next month.
Reading those words is so comforting.
Unfortunately, dozing off is close to impossible.
