T he precious photograph had slipped between two others in the dog-eared album – a forgotten memory waiting to be rediscovered.
Catriona gazed wistfully, recalling a vivid youth that felt like another world now, before tucking the nostalgic 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 Aunty Cat,’ instructed Shona.
‘Mum, stop fussing, I’m 15, not 10!’ Scarlett groaned.
She was wearing her trademark black leggings, cobweb-patterned hoodie and Doc Martens, her poker-straight hair dyed bright magenta – the same shade as Catriona’s.
‘Go and enjoy that salsa and spa break with your girly 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.’
‘Ooh, a haunting! How exciting’
The last time Scarlett visited, Catriona was still in the cramped, second-floor