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“You know Harry would’ve seen me at uni as a med student?”
“I hadn’t realised that.”
“Well, he would have. And his friends. I asked him if he remembered the burns patient case study and he didn’t. I was so angry with him for not remembering me and I don’t even know why. I almost showed him my scars and I panicked.”
“Was he an arsehole or something worse?” His voice cracked.
My breath hitched. A pain ached in my stomach. “No, he was shocked, tried to comfort me and he said ...”that he was in love with me. And I threw that back in his face.
“Stace?”
“Doesn’t matter what he said because he left and I haven’t heard from him.”
Ryan took a deep breath. “I’ve been texting him since the fire.”
“You havewhat!”
Ryan held up his hands. “You refused to let him visit you in hospital. He never left Liam’s side, but he was always making sure you were okay and getting updates from the rostered doctors and nurses.”
A tear slid down my cheek and I swiped at it with my sleeve.
Ryan grabbed a shopping bag, pulling out a mobile phone. “I know the cops have your old phone and it’s wrecked anyway. So I bought a second-hand mobile today.” He then handed it to me. “I programmed the family numbers, the Fire comms number, and Sam’s in. Also, your old number is rediverting to this new one. And I also put in Harry’s number. You’re a Turner, and you’re too damn stubborn, Stace. I’ll tell Harry you have his number now and I won’t be messaging him again. It’s now up to you if you want to make this right, contact him.”
“I should get some rest,” I whispered, clutching the phone.
I hurried away, quickly filling my glass, and headed to bed, my new mobile tucked under my pillow. I lay for hours until sleep finally took me into its dark embrace.
33
STACEY
Ballydoon Community Group:
Rosie posted 5.30 p.m.:
Opera in the Vines at the Zanetti Winery is on in six weeks! Book your table now for a great day of music, food and wine. Save the date!
The week after my stay in hospital was a whirlwind of chintz.
With strict orders from my family and the Doc not to paint, muster sheep or return to work, I instead registered my business name, Design Gems, a play on the mining history in the area and a play on my second name. I ordered business cards, launched the website, created social media accounts, and ordered chintz for Mrs Larcombe for new cushion covers.
I’d also posted a card to Harry’s parents thanking them for the flowers and a card to Liam with stars on it, writing to him that he was so brave.
When my mandatory bed rest had lifted yesterday, I’d met with the Doc and Pam at the practice to sign off the refurbishment. I strongarmed Ryan and Benji to help me prep the walls next week while the practice was closed.
And I’d just finalised my order to turn my sketches of Australian baby animals playing in a gum tree into a wall decal at the practice. I added a cocoon to a gumleaf with a butterfly resting on a branch. I’d also ordered a series of framed photos Sam had done of local landscapes as well as original paintings by local artists. When the new chairs arrived in two weeks, the waiting room would be transformed into a warm and welcoming place.
My new phone buzzed with a message.
Pam: the new owner dropped by today and he loves your final concept for the practice. Well done, again.
I grinned.
Mum walked into the parlour. “You look happy.”
I showed her Pam’s text.
“Oh, well done, my dear.” She embraced me for a quick hug.
