It’s the first time Faith has been to the house. In fact, apart from Tegan on the day of the funeral, and visits from the police about her father’s hit and run, Alice has had no visitors. And, apart from a few coffee meet-ups where Faith managed to pull her out of her comfort zone, and regular walks with Henry, she’s rarely left the house over the last eight months, preferring it that way.

But things are improving with Faith’s constant support. Alice is sculpting again. She’s even put make-up on this evening, a first since the funeral.

‘How are you, lovely?’ Faith leans in and kisses Alice’s cheek.

‘OK. The grey cloud is lifting slowly.’

‘That’s good news. You are doing so well.’ She smiles, lifts the bottle. ‘Shall we get this poured?’

‘Of course, yes.’

Faith’s eyes flick around the entrance. ‘It’s such a lovely house.’

‘Yes. It needs clearing really …’ Alice pinches the skin at her throat. Sighs. ‘It’s just so hard … I can’t bring myself to …’ And there’s the crack in her voice that’s been so common through the months. The sign tears are close.

‘Oh, sweetie, come here.’ Faith puts the wine down, pulls her into a hug, and doesn’t let go for what feels like a minute. ‘As I’ve said before, there’s no rush. Baby steps. You’ll know when you are ready.’

Wine poured they head into the lounge, clutching glasses and bowls filled with snacks.

Faith sits on the edge of the sofa, her smile warm and reassuring. ‘How’s the sculpture coming along?’

Alice sinks into the armchair, Henry at her feet. ‘I’m hoping to have it finished by Halloween. We normally do well at the shop over that period.’

‘That’s brilliant. I can’t wait to see it.’ Faith takes a gulp of wine. ‘What are your thoughts about coming back to the shop?’ A beat. ‘Don’t get me wrong. I’m not putting any pressure on. I just think—’

‘I hope to. Just part-time to start with, if you can stay on for a bit longer—’

‘Sure, but I’m more than happy to back off whenever you feel ready.’

Alice knows her friend will be happy to see her return, that she’s been trying coax her out of her grief for a while, without judging her for falling apart, and she’s grateful for that. She wouldn’t have made the steps she’s already made without her.