Page 39 of Cut up
“All your clients rebooked with you!” I tell her. “That never happens with them normally. And I’ve never seen Cheryl talk that much.”
Sarah beams. “I know! They said it’s the best their hair’s ever looked. I forgot how much I missed this. I didn’t work when I was married, my husband didn’t like me being away. But I love this. Thank you for the colour advice for Fiona too, it turned out amazing!”
Husband? I’m so curious, but I’m quickly learning it’s better not to pry when it comes to Sarah. So I ignore the husband comment, she’ll tell me about it at some stage I’m sure.
“I’m so glad you’re back doing what you love. You’re really good at it. I think we make a great team.” She hugs me tightly. Even though we have an age gap, I can tell we’re going to be good friends.
Out back, I grab my phone from my handbag and my stomach dropswhen I see the notifications.
Twenty missed calls. Six texts.
All from Sean.
Sean: I miss you.
Sean: Please, we can make this work.
Sean: What the fuck is wrong with you Camille? You shouldn’t give up on me so easily.
Sean: I can’t live without you Camille.
Sean: Please come back.
Sean: Fuck you, you fucking slut.
I don’t even want to listen to the voicemails.
“Everything okay?” Sarah asks, noticing the look on my face.
“Yeah… it’s just Sean. My ex. We broke up a couple weeks ago. He didn’t take it well. Last time I saw him, he got a bit… unhinged.”
“I’m sorry. I know what it’s like to deal with crazy exes. Can I give you some advice, babe? No matter how much you love someone, no matter how hard you try, you can’t make the wrong person the right one.” Her hug is warm and solid.
“Thank you. I really needed to hear that. I think I need to block him. There’s no reasoning with him anymore. And these messages… it’s just shit.”
“Block him. Trust me. Sometimes walking away for good is the only thing you can do.” We finish cleaning in silence. As I get in my car, another message lights up the screen.
Sean: I regret every second I spent with you. I never loved you! I hope you know it was more than strippers, I fucked someone new every chance I could. I FUCKING HATE YOU Camille!
Sticks and stones Camille.Sticks and stones.
Sean’s always known how to say the exact thing to hurt me. But I will not allow his words to have power over me anymore. I block him.
Before I start driving, I send Danielle a quick message and turn on a mix of Lewis Capaldi and Dermot Kennedy for the drive home.
Me: I’m on my way. I’ll meet you there xx
25
Wet Wednesday
I actually finish work at a decent time today. It’s only 5 o’clock. Danielle’s van is parked out the front. I head through the front door, hearing loud music playing out the back and splashing from the pool. I put my bags down and head straight outside.
I see Camille and Danielle are in the pool, laughing as they bomb dive and splash each other like kids. The sound of their joy makes me grin. I walk to the edge of the pool.
“You guys look like you’re having fun.”
“Come in!” Camille laughs.
