‘I do, but I also know how tough it’s going to be for you both and I wish I could change your mind. You both need to rest; at least, have some sort of respite. This may go on for days.’

Zara remembered something Lachy had said to her earlier. ‘James, this isn’t about us right now. It’s about Will. He wanted to be here with us, and we’ll have to make it work. And if it’s days, then it’s only a short time, isn’t it?’

James held up his hands in defeat. ‘Okay, okay. I’ll be here as much as I can. And I can get a palliative care nurse to visit once a day, but you must try to get as much rest as you can, and make sure you eat and drink, even if you don’t feel like it. There is no point in becoming ill yourselves. Will wouldn’t want that either.’

Lynda nodded. ‘We’ll be fine, James, and knowing you’re here is a really big comfort to us.’

‘Absolutely,’ agreed Zara.

James got up and kissed Lynda’s head as he picked up his bag. ‘I’ll be back as soon as I can,’ he promised.

The house was silent and the steady tick, tick of the clock in the spare room was beginning to annoy Zara. The afternoon sunlight trickled through a gap in the curtains and, when she opened her eyes, she could see the minute dust particles floating through the air. Her body ached for sleep, but every time she rolled over she found another reason to stay awake: listening for Will’s call; the bed was lumpy; her mind wouldn’t calm. It was frustrating, especially since she knew she’d have to take over from her mum in a few hours. Finally, she gave up and threw the covers off. Maybe a walk would make her feel better.

As she stepped onto the verandah and felt the heat hit her skin, she noticed dust coming up the drive. The dogs started to bark and ran out onto the road, their tails and hackles up.

‘Sit down,’ she growled, wondering who on earth would be bothering them right now. Surely people could just piss off and leave them with their grief. Then she recognised Kim’s car.

‘Hello, sweetie,’ Kim said quietly as she got out. ‘I hope I’m not intruding. I’ve brought more food. I’m sure you don’t feel like eating, but you’re going to need to. It’s just easy stuff: chicken soup and some fresh rolls.’

‘That’s lovely, Kim, thanks. But you’re right, we really don’t feel like eating.’

‘I’ve got no doubt. But it’ll be here if you want it. Shall I just put it inside?’