Chapter 29

CHAPTER 29

J ackson

We're sitting in the kitchen drinking coffee.

"What type of tree is it?" Luca asks.

My tattoo.

"It's a Japanese acer, or maple tree."

"It's beautiful, does it have a meaning?"

"It means strength, endurance, protection, peace—but also change."

"Symbolised by the changing seasons of the leaves."

"Sometimes I forget you're an artist." I smile.

He dips his head down away from me, but he doesn't deny it, which pleases me.

"Why did you have it done?"

"Have what done?" Anna sweeps into the kitchen carrying several bags of shopping. I shoot Luca a look, hopefully conveying that I'll answer his question, but when we're alone.

"Nothing." I answer, rising to take some bags from Anna.

"You're going tomorrow, why have you bought enough food for a week Anna?" Luca pauses, then his voice takes on a worried tone. "You are going tomorrow, aren't you?"

"Relax, I know you want rid of me." Anna beams a grin that takes in both of us. "But I wouldn't be a good friend if I didn't make sure you have a well-stocked fridge. You might be happy to starve yourself Lu, but you need to keep Jackson well fed."

"I can do that. I can look after Jackson," Luca protests.

"You can't look after yourself. And pizza every night is not a proper meal."

"I don't think there's a pizza place for miles."

"Hence the need for all this food."

"Hey, I'm right here," I say, then immediately wish I hadn't got in the middle of one of their spats, as they both unite in glaring at me.

I start unpacking the food and putting it away. Anna does have good taste and the ingredients are top-notch.

"Can we help tonight?" I'm no good at sitting doing nothing.

"Thanks, yes," Anna replies. "You can start by opening that bottle of wine."