Nora's Point Of View:
I sighed down the phone before beginning. I hated to leave her like this after what had happened. Who knows how long we would be? She'd be all alone for all that time. Unless….
"Hey! Look, I'm sorry I didn't tell you about what happened earlier. We've had some orders from these higher angels and we have to go away for a while."
I quickly explained about Pepper and what would happen if we didn't. I heard the television turn off and the kettle go on in the background as I spoke. She hummed as she listened, and I could imagine her pottering around her apartment.
"You know, I don't know how long we're going to be away for. I'd hate to leave you behind so I was wondering if you'd like to come with us?"
I heard silence across the line as she pondered.
"I don't know Nora. It's a long way to go… although I guess I don't have anything holding me back here. Except for Gladys! What would I do about Gladys?!"
Gladys. That hamster was the ray of light in Violets life at the moment and she treat her like a princess.
"Tell you what, bring Gladys along. I'm sure she'll fit. Bring her things as well- I'm sure there'll be room."
"Will Patch be alright if I come along because I don't want to get in between you two!"
"Patch is fine with it – in fact, he suggested it in the first place" It was only a little white lie but it would sweeten her up. I heard a small cough from behind me, and pivoted around to see Prince Charming leaning against the door frame, raising his eyebrows quizzically. I could see the amusement dancing in his eyes. I raised my finger to my lips and returned to the conversation.
"He did? Oh he is such a sweetheart! Fine I'll come – what time shall I come to your place with our stuff?"
"In around about an hour should be fine. I'll see you then – we'll be waiting in the underground car park. You can leave your car there while we are gone!"
"Alright! See you later, alligator!"
"Bye Vee, I mean Violet."
I stuttered and hung up the phone with a small smile. That was the happiest I had heard her in a long time. This trip would be good for her, and all of us. I looked at Patch, grinning insanely and winked.
"Are you ready for this? Let's get packing!"