I smile through my tears. “I love you too.”
We cling to each other as we make our way to the car.
A moment later, we’re travelling to a nearby pub for the wake.
I smile to myself. It’s so Mark.
He planned everything out the way he wanted it.
I finally relax.
Lauren, Sophie, and I sit in a corner with drinks and food.
Patrick walks toward us. “You all set, ladies?” he asks.
“Thank you for speaking today when we couldn’t,” Lauren says.
Patrick leans over, embraces her, and gives her a warm smile. “You’re welcome. I know how much you all loved him.”
He spends the afternoon hovering as people come and talk to us. He’s always attentive and taking care of anything we need.
And then he drives us home.
“Are you staying tonight, Patrick?” Sophie asks.
He ruffles her hair, and she rolls her eyes at him. “I sure am. I thought we could do pizza and watch a movie.”
“Yes, please. Mum, is that okay?”
Patrick meets my gaze. I should be angry that he’s making plans with her without talking to me first, but I don’t have the energy for that today.
“It sounds good. Lauren?”
Lauren shakes her head. “I just want some time to myself. No offence.”
“I understand.” I give her a quick hug. “But I don’t want you to become a stranger. We’re sisters.”
She nods. “We are. I love you two.”
“We love you.” I squeeze her forearm. “I’ll text you and we’ll go for coffee later this week.”
“That would be perfect.”
I hate to think of her in the house she shared with Mark all alone, but we all have to move on and live our lives.
She gives us a little wave before she makes her way to the front door, and I sigh when she’s gone.
“Is she going to be okay?” Patrick asks.
“In time.” I rub the back of my neck. “Mark practically raised her. She was only ten when their parents died, and he stepped up.”
He runs his fingers through his hair. “Shit. I knew they were close, but …”
“Yeah. I already worry about her for other reasons, but losing Mark is a huge blow.”
“I’m sorry. I wish I could do more.”
“Lauren was right. We all needed you to speak today. Thank you for being here.”
