As Tristram entered the lounge room of his house he found his parents waiting for him. They were very serious.
“Am I late?” Tristram asked politely. “Because my watch says it is five to five.”
“No, you’re right on time, Tris.” Holly smiled sadly.
“Is that martial arts teacher here?”
“No…we have cancelled his visit today. Something has come up, Tris.” Holly said quietly. “Pack your bag, we’re going to Geelong.”
“Geelong? When?”
“Tonight.”
“Tonight? Why?” He looked to Russell, who sat silent like a man abandoned in the wilderness. A cold terror crept into his stomach. “It’s Granddad Toby, isn’t it? He is dead.”
“He hasn’t died.” Holly answered seriously. “But the doctors say that he doesn’t have long to live.”
“But…I thought they said he might go into remission…”
“I’m sorry, Tris.”
