Page 40 of Good Sisters

‘Me too,’ Sophie said.

We gave each other watery smiles. I knew she understood.

She inhaled deeply. ‘Right, come on. Let’s focus on your superstar sons. This is a proud day for all of us and I know Mum is cheering them on.’

The match ended with a winning try by Luke. It was hard to see who’d scored because there was a big pile-on, but Luke was the one holding the ball when they all peeled off him. Liam and Leo ran over to him and hugged him. I fought back tears, happy ones this time.

Sophie whooped and cheered. Harry, standing on the opposite side of the pitch with the other parents, including Victoria, clapped Luke on the back as he ran past.

I was delighted for Luke, he trained so hard and was so dedicated to the team. It was lovely to see him shine.

As the players left the pitch, Sophie and I were catching up on Shania’s pregnancy, when we heard a voice.

‘Oh, God, no!’ Sophie mouthed.

‘Is that you, Sophie?’ Victoria drawled.

Sophie turned to face her. ‘Yes, it is.’

‘I thought it was, but I wasn’t sure. You look exhausted.’

The bitch. Sophie’s face reddened.

‘What are you doing at Castle Academy?’

‘I’ve come to watch my amazing nephews playing for the school team. Wasn’t Luke’s winning try incredible?’

Victoria struggled to mutter, ‘Yes, they finished strongly.’

‘What are you doing here? Is Sebastian on the team?’ Sophie feigned innocence.

‘Oh, yes, he’s a key player.’

‘Really? I didn’t see him on the pitch?’

‘Well, he’s carrying a slight injury,’ Victoria blatantly lied. Then turning to me she said, ‘You and Henry really need to improve the communication on the WhatsApp group. Thereshould be far more information from the coaches coming through.’

‘It’s Harry, not Henry, and the coaches were very clear that they do not want to bombard parents with information.’

‘I’d be happy to take over. Communication is my forte. I’m up to my eyes as usual but I’m an excellent multi-tasker.’

‘No, thanks. As the captains’ parents, it’s our role.’ I shut her down.

‘Why are you so busy? Are you working now?’ Sophie poked the bear.

Victoria’s eyes narrowed. ‘I don’t have time to work. I’m run ragged looking after Sebastian and Gerry and decorating our new apartment in London.’

‘I thought you had interior designers and staff to do all that.’ Sophie wasn’t letting go. The same Sophie who, nine years ago, had spent her days with Victoria doing yoga and shopping.

‘Staff need to be managed, Sophie. Are you still working in that modelling place?’ Victoria waved her hand dismissively.

‘I’m a partner at the Beauty Spot, yes.’

‘Did I hear you got back with Jack?’

‘Correct.’

‘Didn’t he have a child with that much younger woman?’

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