I consider bringing up what Dewi told me about the legality of the letters but then decide against it. I still feel they might be too personal to read, and I can’t quite make my mind up.
‘I don’t know what to say, really.’
‘I understand. Even though I’m strongly against it, I guess we could burn them all and never find out what’s in them – if that’s what you really want,’ says Tomas.
‘Oh, I don’t know. My solicitor would probably be annoyed with me. Look, tell him I’ll sleep on it. I’ll have a think, okay?’
‘That’s great. I’ll let him know. I hope you’re enjoying your evening, by the way.’
‘Yes, it’s lovely. Thank you.’
I wonder what Tomas is doing tonight. It seems as though he is alone as there is no sound of anyone in the background.
I leave the restaurant thinking about Albert and Tomas. I have only just met them, but I suppose I should agree to open the letters. Family is important and you need to learn all you can while people are still around. Sadly, with Aunt Grace and Marek no longer here, this is the only way I can find out more about them.
By the next morning, I am ready to face opening the letters and I am even looking forward to seeing Albert and Tomas again. Well, particularly Tomas. I realise it’s been nice to talk to someone who isn’t my postman or lawyer.
Today, my itinerary says to go to the markets at Wenceslas Square and Charles Bridge. However, I can’t think of anywhere I want to be more than at Albert’s cosy apartment. I decide to phone Tomas to tell him that I have finally made a decision about the letters.
‘Albert will be so pleased. Thank you,’ says Tomas.
‘I’m glad I can make him happy. Although he should have probably read them years ago.’
‘I think it was all a bit fresh after Uncle Marek died. Then I don’t think he gave them much thought over the years. The box was stacked up high on top of a wardrobe until you came along. Perhaps he feels it’s finally the right time.’
‘I guess so. When shall we open them? Should I head over there now?’
‘He might be resting at this time, but we can go there later. Maybe early evening?’
‘Yeah, that’s fine.’
‘Great, so what are your plans for the morning?’ asks Tomas.
‘Well, my itinerary says I need to go to the markets at Wenceslas Square and Charles Bridge.’
‘Fantastic, how would you like some local knowledge? I mean, uh, to help you navigate the streets of Prague. I’m not a bad tourist guide, and I can tell you some things that you may not know. Like, I could take you to the lucky dog.’
‘The lucky dog?’
‘You see. You haven’t heard of it, have you?’
‘No, that’s not on my itinerary.’
‘Can you give me half an hour and I’ll take you to it?’
‘Do I have a choice?’
‘No,’ laughs Tomas.
‘Okay. See you in half an hour then.’
I make my way to Charles Bridge and see Tomas rushing towards me as he crosses the Vltava River at the same time as I arrive. Even amongst all the crowds, he stands out. I think it’s the way he walks so confidently and that smile as soon as he sees me.
As I go to shake Tomas’ hand, he moves to kiss me on the cheek, which is all a bit unexpected. I giggle nervously as I return his kiss and then completely miss as he has moved away. Why am I so clumsy around him? Fortunately, Tomas laughs it off.
‘I’m so glad I get to see you again. I was a bit worried you were upset with us after disagreeing about the letters.’
‘No, it’s okay. Anyway, even Aunt Grace’s solicitor has authorised us to read them. He seems obsessed with their love story.’
