Viv cast her a nervous glance. “News came this afternoon. The reserves have been called. We were informed earlier that we shouldn’t conclude war is inevitable. But how can we not when they’re telling us that fleets are mobilized and all naval reservists and remaining Royal Air Force personnel should report for duty?”

Grace fell back against the couch in stunned shock. How had she heard nothing about this? But then, she’d been in her own world busily cleaning, her mind set to task with determination and her customers few and far between.

The anticipation vibrating in the air now hummed in Grace’s veins. This was it.

War.

Mrs. Weatherford said nothing, her face a stoic mask. She stood abruptly and snapped off the wireless. “That’s about enough for one day.” She drew in a deep breath and turned to Grace. “I trust your first day went well?”

“Yes, thank you,” Grace replied softly.

“Good.” Mrs. Weatherford gave a perfunctory nod. “If you’ll excuse me, I have a kidney pie to prepare or we won’t have a thing for supper.”

Without waiting for another reply, she marched out of the room, her back unnaturally straight.

Viv lowered her voice. “They’re evacuating the children tomorrow. All of them to the country. At least, the ones whose parents signed them up to go.”

The news struck Grace in the chest. Viv was right; how could they not expect war when such measures were being implemented?

Grace thought of the housewife who had been in the store earlier, selecting a book without the knowledge that her children would be leaving the following day. All the mothers of London would be losing their children due to the evacuation. And many of them would also be sending their husbands to war.

If not enough men volunteered, they might be conscripted. Grace’s stomach gave a slight flip.

Colin might be called up.

It was no wonder Mrs. Weatherford had been so disinclined to hear more.

Viv stared down at the carpet, solemn. A knot of fear tightened in Grace’s chest and she fought for some levity, lest they both give in to hopelessness. “The children will be fine as long as they don’t end up with my uncle and his family.”

Viv offered a sad smile as she played along. “Not that he’d offer them a place anyway.”

It was then Grace realized Viv was still wearing her smart navy suit. “Did you have your interview?”

Viv nodded. “I was offered a position as a shopper’s assistant. I start tomorrow, for however long it will last now.”

“It will last quite a while, I’m sure.” Grace squeezed her friend’s hand. “Everyone always needs a pair of stockings or a new blouse to make them feel fine.”

“Or an elephant?” Viv tilted her head.

“Perhaps a wombat?” Grace shrugged.