JAKE
Dad had gathered us in his office. As well as Mum, Ally, and I, there was also Shaun and his parents. This was it. This was the announcement that he was ready to retire. I should be ridiculously happy right now. Yet I had an ache in my stomach. I’d had it all day, just a feeling of dread. Like a dark cloud overhead. I sat on the sofa with Mum and Ally on either side of me. Dad looked over at me proudly. He was about to speak when the door knocked. Gamma Porter stuck his head in at my dad’s call to enter. He informed dad that Kelly was here as requested. Dad nodded and thanked him. He told him to let her know that he would be with her shortly. The Gamma left, and dad turned his attention back to those in the room.
“Some of you already know why we are here. I have decided that it’s t
