by Jill Barry
Starford, 1980
“MONTAGUE Heights, Sophie Weston speaking. How may I help you?”
Sophie listened, then riffled through the reservation diary.
“You say Mr Muller and his fellow student need accommodation for the whole of the coming term? No problem, madam.”
She reached for her notepad and pencil.
“Do you have a fax machine?” She noted the number. “I’ll fax you the details this morning.
“We will need Mr Muller’s home address and contact telephone number. Meanwhile I’ll hold the apartment for the next twenty-four hours. Is that all right?”
“That would be helpful, though I’m sure he won’t take long to confirm,” her caller replied. “Thank you for your help.”
Sophie had managed this prestigious apartment block for two years and loved her job.
She’d never dealt with university students before – they roomed in halls or student houses usually. Clearly Mr Muller’s and his friend’s parents could afford something more luxurious.
She frowned when she thought of the rules regarding parties. These were allowed on Fridays and Saturdays but not during the week. Midnight was the cut-off point.
She hoped Mr Muller and his chum wouldn’t be making too much of a racket! There were other residents to consider.
It was time for her morning walkabout. Having sent her fax, Sophie put on her navy jacket, worn today with matching trousers and a pink-and-white striped shirt, and let the elevator whizz her up to the top floor.
These apartments were blessed with breathtaking views over the edge of the city, the meandering River Star and the hills towering in the distance.
She knocked on the first door, listened for the response and let herself in.
Debbie, the longest-serving staff member, was cleaning the cooker.
“Morning, Sophie!” she called. “Nice ladies, these two were. They’re two elderly sisters returning to their roots. Would you believe they went to the same school as my gran and my mum?”
Sophie beamed.
“That’s so nice! You didn’t invite them round to your mum’s for tea, by any chance?”
Debbie chuckled, giving the stainless-steel sink a final rub.
“They were so kind that I was tempted! But my mum hated school and Gran, well, her memory isn’t what it was, bless her.
“Mind you, I can be scatty when I like, too!”
“It doesn’t show in your work, Debbie.” Sophie peered inside the refrigerator. “Very tidy. Let’s hope the next two occupants aren’t too slapd
