‘Albert and I have set a date for the wedding,’ Lena said, and though she’d tried to sound calm, the excitement in her voice was obvious and she couldn’t suppress a whoop of delight.

George got up from the table and walked around to his mum, placed his hands on her shoulders and leaned over to kiss her on the cheek. ‘That’s lovely news, Mum. Congratulations. So, when is the special day?’

‘In November. I know it sounds a bit sudden, but we don’t want to wait any longer. It’s only going to be a small affair, but it’ll be a special day and boy do we all need one!’

‘Congratulations, Lena, that’s wonderful news,’ Sarah said, but Lena could see the smile on Sarah’s face was just a front, masking her pain.

‘After the wedding, I’ll be moving into Albert’s house. That means you’ll be able to have my room, George, and if Sarah would like to live here permanently, she can have yours. It’ll save you looking for somewhere else to rent, Sarah, and it’s ideal here for you, just up the road from the shop. What do you think?’

‘Hang on, Mum. That might cause a bit of gossip.’

‘You know you’ll be in separate rooms so your conscience will be clear, and the only people who will gossip are those with dirty minds. Now then, what do you think, Sarah?’

‘Yes, that sounds perfect, thanks, but how do you feel about me living here, George?’

Before George could answer, Lena said, ‘He’ll be more than happy about it, and glad of the company, won’t you, George?’

‘Suits me,’ George said, and gave a thumbs-up sign.

‘Good, that’s settled then. Albert wants me to stop working, so Sarah, we are going to promote you. You’ll be the manageress and you can take on an assistant. I’ve every confidence in you. Do you think you’re up to it, love?’

‘Lena, yes, definitely. I don’t know what to say,’ Sarah answered, sounding surprised.

‘Thanks will do, and of course your wages will be increased to reflect your new position.’

‘Well then, thanks, Lena. I won’t let you down,’ Sarah said, looking brighter.

Lena had seen how Sarah worked and trusted her. She felt the added responsibility would do the girl good and help to take her mind off the tragedies that had surrounded her lately. ‘I was also hoping you’d help me with the planning and arrangements for the wedding too. Like I said, it’s only going to be a small do, but there are still lots of arrangements to make.’

‘I’d love to help,’ Sarah said.

Lena felt pleased with herself. Sarah looked happier. With a smile she said to her son, ‘George, would you like to give me away?’