“They’re okay for the moment. I’m sure no one will mind if they’re a bit late or don’t even go today but I can run them in later if you want.”

Heather went to stand up again. “I’ve got to get to work myself.”

Paula put her hands on Heather’s shoulders; they felt as if they would break. “I’ll give Jim a ring. You know he won’t want you to come in today after what’s happened here.” Gently, she lowered Heather back on her chair. It was amazing how fragile she felt. She was always thin but Paula felt as if she was holding a skeleton in her hands.

“Thanks, Paula. Jim’s a kind man. He’s been very generous to us in the past. We’re lucky to have such good friends. Dan’s been a rock, everyone’s been wonderful.”

Paula could feel her begin to shake. Heather sobbed quietly. “I wish Ted would come inside,” she whispered. “He kept trying to get the bales out. He wouldn’t stop. I was terrified he’d get burned.”

Heather was staring into the distance. Paula was worried she may be in shock.

“Dan’s there now. Maybe he will bring him in. You’re exhausted. You probably haven’t finished one of those cups of tea and I bet you haven’t eaten anything.” Paula’s own stomach was churning again. With the lack of sleep and no breakfast, she was starting to feel a bit fragile herself. She glanced around the kitchen and spied a loaf of bread lying next to the toaster. “I’ll make you a fresh cup and some toast.”

There was a faint wail from the lounge. Heather jumped up and the kitchen door flew open at the same time.

“Mum.” Bridget burst through the door. “Dad’s been burned. Dan’s going to take him to the hospital.”

“Where is he?” Heather cried.

“Dan’s taking him to the car now.” She turned to Paula. “Dan asked me to let you know and would it be okay for you to stay here?”

The wail had turned to yells and screams in the lounge.

“Go and look after your brothers, Bridget,” Heather snapped. “Paula, can you stay?”

“Of course.”

“Mum, he doesn’t want…”

“See to your brothers, Bridget.”

Heather brushed her hair with her fingers, snatched up a purse from the cupboard and went out the door. Paula trailed behind, hoping for a quick word with Dan before they left. She thought guiltily of her lack of empathy for Ted the night before and wondered how bad his burns were.

Heather was at the vehicle when Paula heard Ted’s bellow.

“Stop fussing, woman.”

Heather stumbled back. Paula’s hand went to her mouth. Had Ted pushed his wife away? Dan said something to Ted who got into the car, then Dan spoke to Heather. He guided her back towards Paula.