A little later, we’re sitting in the lounge on the huge corner sofa when Calla and Zoe make an appearance. Ash isn’t far behind, hopping down the stairs.
“Hello, you,” Calla says as Zoe runs to Angie.
“Auntie!” she shouts, jumping into her lap.
Angie laughs a little. “Hello, my beautiful girl. Where have you been?”
“Me, Mummy, and Daddy had a big sleep.”
“Well, I bet you’re full of beans now.”
“Yes! Will you come on the trambopaline with me?”
I just love this kid. She always knows how to lift a sober mood.
Calla cuts in, “Sweetie, remember, we said you have to look after Auntie Angie today. She needs lots of love and huggles. It’s also dark and cold outside, so not really trampoline time.” Calla turns her attention back to our group. “All of us passed out as soon as we lay on the bed, although, I’m regretting it slightly. I bet madam here won’t go to sleep at all now.”
“That doesn’t matter, does it, Zo?” Angie says. “We can sit up all night talking.”
“Yay!”
“Don’t encourage her.” Calla giggles before changing the subject. “Anyone need a drink?”
“You got a beer or something?” Max asks.
“I can get you a beer. Anyone else?”
“I think it’s beers all round, baby,” Ash calls.
“Tommy, can you give me a hand?” Calla’s eyes widen as she asks.
“Sure.” I do as I’m told, guessing Calla wants a word in private, and as soon as we turn the corner, she pounces.
“What happened at the chapel? Was Angie okay?”
“Yeah. She cried some more. Spent a lot of time talking to Scott.”
Calla looks down. “It’s to be expected.”
Then a voice from behind me says, “Thanks again for today, Tommy. I appreciate all you did for me.”
I look over my shoulder to find Angie standing in the doorway.
“Hey, where did you spring from?” Calla smiles.
“I had a feeling you’d be grilling Tommy, so I wanted to step in before you really got your teeth into him. I know what you’re like, Cal.”
Her lips purse, trying not to laugh. “I’m just happy to see you looking a bit more…”
“Human?” Angie continues.
“No—”
“It’s okay. I know I haven’t exactly been with it lately and I haven’t been as supportive of you as I should. I’m so sorry if I’ve made life difficult today. Watching his coffin… it just became too much.”
“I understand. We all handle things differently. We were worried about you, that’s all.” Calla steps forward, takingAngie into her arms briefly for a hug before Angie turns to me.
“You were amazing today, Tommy. Those last hours with Scott were so precious.” Her glassy eyes blink repeatedly.
