The precious photograph had slipped between two others in the dog-eared album – a memory waiting to be rediscovered.
Catriona gazed wistfully, recalling a vivid youth that felt like another world, before tucking the reminder of her past back in the wardrobe. There was work to do before her visitor arrived.
She was in the garden when the taxi pulled up and her younger sister Shona, with teenage daughter Scarlett in tow, got out.
‘Now, Scarlett, make sure you behave for Auntie Cat,’ instructed Shona.
‘I’m 15, not 10, Mum!’ Scarlett groaned.
She was wearing her trademark black leggings, cobweb-patterned hoodie and Dr Martens boots, her straight hair dyed magenta – the same shade as Catriona’s.
‘Go and enjoy that spa break with your mates.’
Shona looked anxiously at Catriona. ‘I feel guilty, leaving Scarlett with you. You’ve hardly had time to settle into your new home.’
Catriona smiled. ‘It’s no bother, honestly.’
The last time Scarlett visited, Catriona was
