She walked with him to the kerb and watched him climb into his van. He waved at her as he drove off, and she waved back, feeling that a milestone had been reached. The milder evening air cooled her flushed cheeks, and feeling elated she looked up to see Mo looking down at her from her upstairs window. She waved again, this time at Mo, but she didn’t wave back. Sarah frowned; something didn’t feel right. Mo’s face was deadpan, then she stepped back and out of sight. It was very strange – maybe Mo hadn’t seen her, though she was sure she had.

As she went inside, Sarah thought she heard Tommy moan and dashed to their room, dismissing all thoughts of Mo’s peculiar behaviour. She perched on the edge of Tommy’s bed and gently stroked his hair, while her mind drifted to thoughts of Roger. His sensual touch had made her quiver with delight, and though they weren’t yet married, they were committed and she felt ready to move their relationship on to the next stage.

Chapter 35

The following evening, Lena checked herself one final time in her bedroom mirror. Albert would be here soon, and her nerves were jangling. Her hair was curled to perfection, and she wore a smart brown skirt with a matching jacket, and a white blouse. It wasn’t what she’d describe as sexy, and if anything, it made her look a bit like a school headmistress, but she’d deemed the outfit suitable for her date.

Pleased with her appearance, Lena picked up her handbag just as she heard George come home. He was later than usual, but had said he was going to pick up some second-hand stock that he’d been offered for a knockdown price.

‘You look … nice. Is that what you’re wearing for your date with Mr Bosco?’ George asked as he came in, a small frown creasing his brow.

‘Yes, what’s wrong with it?’ Lena asked, suddenly having second thoughts about her choice.

‘Nothing … nothing’s wrong with it at all … if you were going to meet the bank manager.’

‘Oh, George, it’s too late for me to change now, he’ll be here any minute.’

‘Take no notice of me, Mum, you look lovely. You always do. I’m just teasing you.’

There was a knock on the door and when George opened it she could see Mr Bosco, almost hidden behind a large bouquet of flowers. She hurried down the last few stairs. ‘Albert, come in,’ she invited. ‘Are they for me?’

‘Yes, I hope you like them.’