I nod, but still I’m rooted. There are five people standing in the distance, all in the same navy and white unform, bodies ramrod-straight, hands clasped before them.
‘How did they take it?’
‘They loved my grandmother and they respect her wishes. That’s all you need to know!’
You don’t, though, my heart screams as his palm urges me to move.
‘Come on! Marie will get tetchy if we’re late for dinner!’
‘Dinner?’ The idea of eating anything feels impossible. But then... ‘Hang on, did you say Marie? Marie is still here?’
‘Yes.’
He smiles now, the closest thing to a genuine smile I’ve seen him give, and a wave of happiness flows through me. I cling to it, use it to give me the confidence I’ve been lacking.
‘And whatever you do, don’t mention retirement to her—not unless you want something akin to gruel for breakfast each day!’
‘Thanks for the warning!’ I manage to say, happy to know there will be one friendly face at least.
I only wish it could be his.