‘They’re beautiful,’ Lena said and took the bunch. ‘It’s been a while since anyone’s bought me flowers. George, I’ve left you a salad and there’s some nice crusty bread. Be a love and get a vase out from under the sink. Put these in water for me and I’ll see you later.’

‘Yeah, will do,’ George said as he looked at Albert.

She kissed her son on the cheek and handed him the bouquet, hoping he wouldn’t say something embarrassing. Albert looked awkward enough as he stood in the hall so she was keen to get him out of the front door and away from George’s scrutiny.

Once outside, Albert held the passenger-side door open and Lena climbed into the car. She was immediately impressed with the red and cream leather interior, and her nose twitched at the smell of polish.

‘You look nice,’ Albert said as he started the car engine.

‘Thank you, so do you,’ Lena replied, noting his suit, which looked brand new, and smart shirt. After years of her husband and now her son working with second-hand clothes, Lena had a good eye for quality, and could always tell when something was new.

‘I’ve reserved us a table at Allesandro’s. It’s a small Italian restaurant in Chelsea. Do you like Italian food?’

Lena had never tasted Italian cuisine, apart from the ice-creams at De Marco’s. ‘I couldn’t say, but I’m sure I will,’ she answered and wondered what sort of food it would be. Maybe spaghetti with meatballs? She pictured a scene in her favourite comedy film in which the characters had been given big bowls of the stuff. She couldn’t help but chuckle at the memory.

‘What’s so funny?’ Albert asked.

‘Oh, nothing really. I’m just remembering an old film with scenes of spaghetti and meatballs,’ she answered.

‘The Marx Brothers film? A Night at the Opera?’ Albert asked.

‘Yes! It’s my favourite,’ she said.

‘Mine too.’

Lena began to relax and found she was enjoying herself. They didn’t only share being widowed, but also the same sense of humour. She’d been hesitant about accepting a night out with a man, but now was glad she had.

‘Can I have a jam sandwich?’ Tommy asked.

‘No, you can’t,’ Sarah answered firmly.

‘But I’m hungry.’

‘Then you should have eaten your dinner.’

‘But I hate liver.’

‘Oh, all right, you can have a jam sandwich, but then it’s bed for you, young man.’

‘Fanks, Mum. Is Roger coming to see you?’

‘Yes, and he should be here soon.’

‘Do you think he’ll bring me another banana? If he does I’m going to share it with Larry. He said his mum gave him peaches and milk from a tin after his tea yesterday. Can we have peaches and milk from a tin too?’

‘We’ll see. Now enough questions.’