None of them knew what to say. All they could do was wait.
* * *
They sat in silence for twenty minutes before Jenny made a suggestion. ‘Why don’t you boys get yourselves home? You aren’t going to be able to do anything here, and if there’s any news, we’ll be in touch.’
Aiden began flicking through his wallet. ‘I’ve got enough cash to get us all home. What do you think?’
Wilson gazed up from his chair. ‘I’m not sure. I feel like we should stay.’
‘Honestly, that’s very kind but there’s no need. Go home and get some rest. Mim will be here shortly and she doesn’t need all of us hanging around.’
Pippa rubbed a weary hand over her face. ‘I’m feeling tired too. Would anyone mind if I travelled back with the boys?’
‘No, not at all. You three go.’
‘Aiden, Wilson, is that okay with you?’ Pippa asked.
‘Of course,’ Wilson replied.
‘There’s a taxi rank just outside.’ Aiden turned towards Elle. ‘Please let us know if there’s any news.’
‘I will – I promise.’
‘This is awful, isn’t it?’ Jenny said once they were alone. Her eyes glistened with tears. ‘I feel so helpless. This was meant to be a night to remember and now it’s one for all the wrong reasons.’
‘Do you want another coffee?’ asked Elle.
Jenny shook her head. ‘No, thank you, I’m fine.’
Elle noticed a tear run down Jenny’s cheek and passed her a tissue.
‘Thank you.’
Jenny seemed lost in her own thoughts and Elle wondered if she’d possibly been through the same situation in the past.
* * *
Twenty minutes later they were still waiting in silence. Then finally the door at the end of the corridor swung open and the sound of footsteps could be heard. Elle’s eyes met Jack’s and immediately she knew it wasn’t good news.
He stood in front of them. His voice was quiet. ‘She’s lost the baby.’
Elle squeezed her eyes shut as Jenny stood up and wrapped her arms around Jack. Jack sobbed.
Once Jenny pulled away, Elle hugged Jack too. ‘I’m so sorry. I don’t even know what to say, as nothing will make it feel better.’
‘Just having my friends with me is a help. Thank you for travelling with Eleni in the ambulance. You’re a good friend, Elle.’
‘You don’t need to thank me. Anyone would have done the same.’
‘She’s finally drifted off to sleep.’
‘How are you feeling?’
‘Numb’ was all he could say as he perched on the edge of the chair.
‘Shall I get you a coffee?’ Jenny asked.
He nodded and she walked off down the corridor towards the coffee machine.
