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LIBERATION

1944–1945

Chapter Twenty-Three

“It was wonderful. Oh, Grand-Mère, Grand-Père, you should have been there.”

Josie bursts into the apartment, Andrée tagging along behind. Josie’s excitement is infectious. She, too, can’t wipe the smile from her face.

Tina and Louis put down the books they are reading in the long summer twilight. It is well past Josie’s bedtime. Curfew looms. They’ve taken a risk being out at night—a huge risk.

Louis beckons. “Come—sit and tell us all about it.”

“It was the most wonderful night of my life.”

“Better than the other concerts Tata has taken you to?” Tina asks.

“Yes. I knew more pieces of the music. Oh, the violist, she was amazing. And of course the pianist. I always watch the pianist.”

“They played Bach, among others,” Andrée adds.

“Was it a full house?” Louis asks.

Josie frowns. “Yes. Of course. And too many Germans, all in their horrible uniforms and medals. And the women sitting with them all wore silk and lace and way too much jewelry and makeup.”

“Were you safe there?” Tina asks, concerned.

“Oh yes, they don’t bother me. I’m with my Tata Andrée. No one is going to touch me when I’m with her.”

Josie hugs Andrée for the umpteenth time. “Thank you so much. I don’t think I will sleep tonight.”

“It is very late. I tell you what—the school year is coming to an end. Why don’t you sleep in tomorrow? Take the day off. I’m sure Mlle Évrard won’t mind,” Tina suggests.

Josie thinks for a moment. “Mmm, that would be nice. That way I can spend the day with you and help at the bookshop if you like.”

“Or you could just sleep in and spend the day reliving this evening,” Andrée suggests.

“How about, if I wake up on time, I’ll go to school. If not, I’ll stay home.” she kisses them all good night.

Andrée drops into a chair. Exhausted.

“She is so happy. Thank you, ma chère. I know taking Josie to concerts takes its toll on you, walking into the lion’s den as you both do,” Tina says.

“You’re right, Maman. I worry when we arrive and again when we leave. But during the concert, like Josie, I lose myself in the music, and while it’s playing all thoughts of war and hunger just disappear. I’m in my Paris.”

“I suggest we all call it a night. There’s lots to discuss at our meeting tomorrow. We haven’t heard from Dancer for a week, but I’m sure she is fine. It seems with the Allies approaching, the Germans are getting more dangerous, more reckless. And as for the Militia . . .” Louis doesn’t continue.

No one needs him to finish the sentence. They all know. The Militia are worse than the Germans. More brutal. More zealous. French hunting French.

“Good morning. What a beautiful day!” Josie joins the others at the table.

“I thought you were going to sleep in. You’re dressed for school,” Tina says.

“I told you I wasn’t going to sleep. Well, maybe I did a little. I want to go to school so I can tell Monique and the others about last night. May I go, please?”

“Of course, but come and eat something first.”

The excitement of last night stays with Josie. She gobbles down the small piece of bread, gulps the glass of powdered milk. She throws her arms around the necks of Andrée, Tina, and Louis in turn.