Birthday Party

I didn’t want anything more to do with Conor. ‘But the company!’ Freya’s voice had become increasingly strident, drawing curious glances from other patrons in the café. She didn’t notice. ‘Candour’s the last thing your father left Niall. I can’t let Conor destroy it. You used to be so close to him. The two of you were practically inseparable. If anyone can talk him around, it’s got to be you!’ ‘Dad left you plenty. Houses, artwork, investment portfolios. Even without Candour, you and Niall will be set for life.’ I rose, tossed one last look at the boy splashing around in the pool, turned to leave. ‘Amiyah!’ I didn’t look back. I sat in my car, waited for my hands to stop shaking before I started the engine. I had a feeling that this wouldn’t be the last time I heard from Freya. Maybe it would be Landon’s turn to talk to me next. I steered the car down a wide avenue carpeted with golden leaves, and just wanted to keep on driving. Why couldn’t they just leave me alone? They drove me out