Meadema's Version

Winter Break

Vivianne woke up on the couch. Her suitcase was packed and waiting for her next to the door. Her plane leaves in 6 hours. Lisa moved out a couple of days ago, Viv is still processing the fact that she has to learn to live on her own now. Most of the nights Viv falls asleep on the couch because she finds it hard to sleep in the bedroom for the time being. She stays on the couch for some minutes trying to process the echoing silence in the house. Moments later the bell rung. Viv stood up immediately and went to the door.

V: Who is it?
K: Your Irish order has arrived. Open the door.

Viv chuckles and opens the door.

V: What are you doing here Katie?
K: I am not alone.
B: Good morning you.
V: Good morning Beth. The question still remains though. What are you doing here?
K: Nothing. Just making sure you will eat and arrive safely at the airport. Are you ready to go home for the holidays?

Beth brings out a bag with breakfast for Viv and a hot cup of Yorkshire tea.

V: Wow. Thank you so much. Umm, ja, I packed my suitcase yesterday, I am ready for the airport I guess.
B: Ready for the airport but not ready for what..?
V: Ermm.. For family questions and the media that will start posting about me after I arrive alone there I guess.
B: I understand. But don't be anxious. It will last 2 or 3 days max. Try to relax these days until the topic settles down.
K: As for your family, explain to them the situation just like you did with us. I am sure they will understand and support you no matter what mate.
B: Try not to worry Viv. I am sure your family will be there for you. Just talk to them from your heart.
V: You are both right. I just keep overthinking. That tea tastes so good. What is it?
B: You like it? It's Yorkshire tea, I can bring you some when I return from Whitby if you want.
K: Proud Yorki, Beffy you charmer. Haha.
B: Oh, shut up Katie. *Beth hits Katie at her bicep*

Viv and Katie laugh while Beth's cheeks blush a little. Viv keeps eating her breakfast while Katie starts chatting with Beth again.

K: When are you leaving for Whitby Beth?
B: Tomorrow morning.
K: Happy to see your mom? How's she doing?
B: She keeps fighting. I am happy we will spend these days together, I missed her so much. Every moment with her is precious for me.
V: Enjoy every second Beth and try to get some much needed rest too. You had a difficult autumn.
B: Same goes for you Vivianne.

They kept chatting as the hours pass by and when the time came they drove to the airport. Beth was driving, Viv was next to her and Katie behind. They arrived at the airport after a while and Viv was ready to walk at her gate to leave.

K: Have a safe trip mate. Looking forward seeing you again. *Katie claps her hand with Viv and hugged her for goodbye*

Viv turns to Beth, she felt something awkward between them.

V: So... Thanks again for the tea and for the ride here.
B: No need, Viv. Thank K-Katie, the idea was hers. Take care of yourself and if you need anything feel free to text me... Umm.. I mean text us.

Viv leaned forward to take Beth in her hug. Beth wrapped her arms around Viv's back and rubbed her back with her fingers for some seconds. Viv and Beth hugged many times but this felt different. These seconds felt like minutes. Viv stepped back from the hug, grabbed her suitcase and turn around to go to her gate. As she turned around she stepped on her own foot and sweared "Godverdomme!!". Katie laughed out loud.