It was just a few days away, but a chance encounter threw Kathy into turmoil
I’ve been analysing the problem and I think I know what’s wrong.’I groaned inwardly. Please, Matt, I thought, spare me your analysis.
‘You need a holiday, Kathy. By yourself, away from me and the kids. You’ve had so much to cope with recently – moving house, extra hours at work and everything else. The three of us have talked it over, and we all agree. It’ll do you the world of good.’
I could think of lots of reasons why Matt’s suggestion was impractical, but when Calum and Victoria chimed in too, I began to come round to the idea.
It was true. The pressure of multitasking had totally stressed me out. I had some annual leave owing to me at work, but I’d always made excuses about being too busy to take it. If I didn’t go away now, I’d lose those accrued days forever.
I settled for three nights in Amsterdam, a city I’d always wanted to visit. I looked forward to strolling by the canals and exploring the numerous art galleries.
Finally, as departure day dawned, I briefed the troops before the taxi arrived to whisk me off to the airport.
‘Matt, remember to check the calendar – there are the kids’ appointments for the dentist, and the car is booked for a service.’
‘I won’t forget,’ he promised.
‘Calum, what must you do each night before bedtime?’
‘Get my school bag ready for the next day.’
‘Good boy. Victoria, keep an eye on Calum and your dad. And no sneaking off to get a tattoo while I’m away,’ I warned.
‘But, Mum,’ she protested, ‘all my mates have got one.’
‘You’re just 16. If and when you have one, I shall come with you and make sure it’s both tasteful and discreet.’
‘Great. Like a flower on the bottom of my foot?’ came the sarcastic response.
‘Something like that, yes.’
A honk from the taxi outside gave me my cue to leave. Quick hugs all round and I was off on my solo adventure.
The flight took off on time and wasn’t too crowded. After touching down at Schipol Airport, I took a cab to the hotel, passing groups of cyclists and networks of bridges and canals.
I was staying at the Van Beek, a grand, imposing building painted duck-egg blue, with a small flight of steps up to reception, where I was handed the key to my room.
It was on the second floor and was clean and pleasant, with an uninterrupted view across the canal. The cream-coloured walls were
