Flora was getting changed into her nightie, and she felt the absence of Mack acutely. They had been exchanging touches, kisses, and hugs all evening, and she didn’t want to be without her. It felt wonderful to be close to Mack, and it helped with her nervousness. Dexter helped enormously too, just by being there, when there was a lull in the conversation.

Although it was wonderful to meet Annie, Nikki was the one she was most worried about meeting, but she was lovely. Nikki told her all about Isy and her likes and dislikes, and stories about the mischievous things she and Mack got up to. Nikki was intense and could be a bit scary, but she was extremely nice to her. If Mack hadn’t been there, it would have been different. She still struggled with the conversation and got tongue-tied, but Mack was always there to fill in for her. Mack had been a tower of strength.

Flora looked at the bed and got slightly panicked and nervous. She was out of her own house at half past twelve. She needed Mack.

She left her bedroom and saw Mack and Dexter walking back from the kitchen with two bottles in hand. Mack looked gorgeous in her boxers and sleeveless T-shirt. The muscles in Mack’s arms, shoulders, and neck made Flora crave intimacy. Her body so wanted her to be normal. If she was, she’d jump on Mack and never come up for air.

“Hiya, I was just going to bring you a bottle of water.”

“Thanks.” Flo took the bottle.

“Is everything all right?” Mack asked.

“Yes. I mean, no, it’s strange being in someone’s else’s house at night.”

“I’m just next door,” Mack said. “You don’t have to worry, but I do know how difficult tonight has been for you. But you did so well. I was so proud of you.”

“Thank you. Nikki wasn’t as intimidating as I expected.”

“Nikki might be ruthless, but to our family she is strong and loving, and she would do anything for us,” Mack said.

“I’m not your family. I’m not anyone’s family,” Flora said sadly.

Mack took her hand. “Come in and sit. I want us to talk.”

Flora followed Mack into her room. Mack patted the bed. “Sit down.”

She sat and said, “I want to talk to you too.”

“You go first, then,” Mack said.

“No, you.” Flora was nervous to say what Dr. Carrson had suggested.