* * *
Rebecca currently hadpink hair which made the black frames of her glasses stand out all the more. She’d put on a little bit of weight since I’d last seen her but her eclectic style hadn’t changed since she’d moved away. Today’s outfit was a long flowery skirt with a top and tweed jacket.
She didn’t say anything when she saw me, instead getting up and offering to shake my hand.
“I’m so sorry about Robert. I can’t believe he’s died.”
“I’m still expecting to pass him in the street.” Because he hadn’t been an everyday visitor in my life I hadn’t got to the point where he was missing. I’d drive passed the centre and have to check myself when I thought about seeing him there on a Sunday. There were still moments in the day when I remembered that he wasn’t coming back and each time it was like someone had punched me in the stomach.
Rebecca nodded. “How’s Lolly taking it?”
“Hard. Then she’s okay. Then it hits her again. Simone’s been good for her.” I wasn’t trying to rub Rebecca’s face in the fact that she hadn’t been there. She had, as much as she could, Skyping two or three times a day.
“How is Simone? Concussion can be a long time getting over. Especially with the grade she had.” She was straight into fact mode, her most comfortable position.
“Recovering. Worrying. She’s not used to being looked after.”
Rebecca smiled. “Another Miss Independent?”
“Pretty much. We’re going to move in together.”
Her face lit up. “That’s really good. It’ll be excellent for Lauren to have a female around full time. And for you to have a partner. I’d hoped you’d find someone sooner but if Simone is right then I’m glad you waited.”
Surprisingly, there was no comment about anything involving neuro-somethings or studies. Rebecca had never been diagnosed, but I was pretty convinced she was on the autistic spectrum.
“Are you seeing anyone?”
She nodded. “Two men. Jan and Tobias. They’re in a relationship too. I haven’t shared this with Lauren. I figured as it is somewhat unconventional, I was best keeping it to myself.”
I thanked that she had developed the sense to realise this, else that would’ve been a weird conversation to have with Lolly about mum’s two boyfriends.
“Probably a good idea. Is it serious?”
“The sex is very good. And if I’m busy working they can amuse themselves with each other.”
I heard the woman sitting behind us choke.
“How is work?” The question was a loaded one, because I knew I would now get a half hour explanation on what was happening in the world of physics.
“It’s good. Very interesting.” The detail appeared. “Is Simone looking forward to meeting me?”
“She’s worried.” No point lying to Rebecca. “About us possibly getting back together.”
“Well that’s not happening. What would you recommend off the menu?”
I gave her a list of tapas to try.
“Do you need me to tell her that I’m not interested?”
I wondered whether I should be offended by her absolutely distaste for me and decided it wasn’t worth it.
“If the subject comes up.”
“I don’t want me to be a problem between the two of you. I understand that she’ll be worried because we have a history together, but that’s what it is – a history. I think I should put her mind at ease. Are you in love with her?”
“Yes.” Again, no point dressing it up.
“That’s good. I want Lauren to see a positive, healthy and normal relationship. Do you think you’ll have more children?” She pushed her glasses further up her nose.
