Josie listens to Heart FM through headphones. Behind the glorious crashing crescendos of ‘Greatest Day’ by Take That lies the buzz of sewing machines, the rumble of the tube trains, the chatter of her colleagues, the loud voice of the current customer, but she focuses on the music, the way it makes her feel, filling up her senses with rightness and certainty. The weekend feels like a blur. She spent most of it in bed. Walter diagnosed her with a summer cold and brought her food and beverages. He took Fred out for her and fed him. But this morning she’d awoken feeling fresh and normal, and headed into work despite Walter’s protestations that she should stay home, take care of herself.
In her break at three o’clock, she makes herself an instant hot chocolate using powder from a jar, and she writes Alix a message.
I am sorry about Saturday. I had a summer cold. Spent the weekend in bed, shivering. Think I had a touch of deliria! I’m fine now though and looking forward to our next meeting. I can do tomorrow morning.
Alix’s reply comes a moment later.
Oh no! I’m so sorry you were unwell. You did seem a bit out of sorts. Please come over tomorrow, if you’re feeling up to that?
Josie replies with alacrity.
I would love that. See you then.