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‘Yes, keeping well, good as can be, I suppose.’

Nina could tell that Mrs Gilbert was trying to compute Nina with the tiny little baby in her arms. ‘I’m glad you’re well.’

Mrs Gilbert narrowed her eyes and pointed to the baby. ‘Sorry, is this, umm…? I haven’t seen you for ages, have I?’

‘Lots to tell,’ Nina laughed. ‘I’m married now.’

‘Oh! Goodness!’

‘Yes, I went to the coast. I’m not sure if you remember that. Anyway, I met someone.’

‘Of course I remember.’

Nina smiled. ‘Yes, so…’

‘Wow, you didn’t hang around,’ Mrs Gilbert said.

‘No, no.’

‘And who is this little one we have here, then?’

‘This is Faye,’ Nina replied with a smile.

‘Ooh, how delightful! What a beautiful name,’ Mrs Gilbert exclaimed. ‘Well, you look very well for it.’

‘Thank you, I feel it at the moment.’

‘So, you have a husband again now?’

‘Yes. His name is Robby. We met in Lovely Bay. He’s been wonderful, especially now with Faye.’

Mrs Gilbert seemed visibly moved. ‘You’ve come a long way. I’m so pleased you’ve found happiness again.’

‘Thank you. Me too. Right, well, I’d better get on before she gets cranky.’

‘Yes, pop in for a cup of tea next time you’re here.’

‘Will do.’

43

Nina had just finished feeding Faye in the sitting room of her flat. It had felt very strange to be back in her old world as mummy to Faye. She kept on looking around at all her old things with very different eyes. Once Faye was done, Nina went down to the pram, detached the top section and settled Faye in the little seat and then rocked it back and forth over and over again. When Faye had finally dropped off, Nina had tucked a blanket over her legs, made a cup of tea and walked into her old bedroom.

As the last time she’d visited the flat, when she’d been pregnant with Faye, she opened the wardrobe door and inhaled. Nothing. She looked at the jumble of mess and Andrew’s things and picked up the sleeve of one of his jackets and inhaled. He was in there somewhere. Just about.

With her tea in her hand, she stepped into the wardrobe and turned around looking out over towards the bed. ‘Hello. How are you? I’m back.’

I can see that. With a plus one.Imaginary Andrew said in her head.

‘Ha ha. Very funny.’

She’s gorgeous. I am happy for you.So happy.

Tears streamed down Nina’s cheeks. ‘Thanks. I had her at the top of a lighthouse.’

You always did pick your moments.

‘I miss you so much. Still. Like really a lot. So much. All the time sometimes.’