‘There’s nothing to say. I’m here, and hopefully getting my life back on track. Heartcross is my brand-new start.’

‘And from what it sounds like, you deserve your new start and happiness.’ Roman turned into the hospital carpark, which was already busy with cars lined up, waiting to grab the first space available. He drove around a couple of times until he was lucky enough to spot a space and park up. ‘I don’t mind waiting here for you. I have a few phone calls I need to catch up on.’

‘You can’t do that! I really don’t know how long I’m going to be.’

‘That’s okay, honestly – take your time.’

For a second, Ella hesitated. ‘Okay, thank you. As long as you are sure?’

‘Absolutely sure.’

‘Thank you,’ she said again, stepping out of the car.

‘And pass on my best to Dolores.’

Heading towards the main entrance, Ella walked past the line of ambulances and through the revolving doors. A fleeting thought of Alex passed through her mind. She’d waited so many times in the hospital carpark to pick him up after work, and she wondered now what the hell he’d actually done all day with his time? She gave a little shudder. Every time she thought of him now she was angry.

Hovering in the hospital entrance, Ella stared up at the white signs hanging above her head and slowly made her way to Ward 17, situated on the second floor. Within five minutes she’d arrived, to find a nurse sitting at the desk outside the ward talking to a doctor. As soon as they finished their conversation the doctor smiled at Ella before disappearing down the corridor. ‘Can I help you?’ asked the nurse, shuffling a pile of papers in front of her.

‘I’m looking for Dolores Henderson,’ replied Ella. ‘I’ve come to visit.’

‘Dolores is in the bed on the right, closest to the window. She’ll be pleased to see you.’

Ella stepped on to the ward and noticed many of the cubicles had the curtains pulled around the bed to give a little privacy. She walked towards the windows; the sun was shining through the cracks in the blinds, painting narrow, vertical bands of light on the magnolia walls. There were other visitors sitting at patients’ beds, but Ella noticed everyone seemed to be talking in a whisper.