Maggie was thrilled with the success of the sit-in. She and Tom celebrated back at Providence Farm with cocoa and some leftover cake. The reporter had sensed a scoop and talked of tentative interest from the nationals. She suspected he’d hoped for interest from the nationals his whole career. He’d taken photographs of the library, one of the protesters, and one of a startled-looking Mr Tilley, who kept repeating that they needed to refer to the council press office and website. She hadn’t liked his insistence that the date was set for the library to close. She would challenge the council on that by phone tomorrow. But it wasn’t enough; she needed to do more – a lot more.

‘Do you think tonight did any good?’ asked Tom.

Maggie pondered the question, scrunching up her eyes as she thought. ‘I truly hope so. It was a good turnout, which was a relief. I just wish those people had used the library in the first place, then we wouldn’t have to do all this.’

‘That council bloke didn’t seem hopeful though.’

‘No, but people like that think their process is king and can’t bear the thought of someone scuppering their plans. I think they’ve earmarked the building for something. Probably got a dodgy deal already in the offing. Bent buggers the lot of them.’ She seemed to be talking more to herself than Tom.

‘Your speech was good,’ said Tom. ‘That reporter seemed impressed with what you said. And I was too. I don’t know how you do it. I’d like to be able to say stuff in a way that makes people listen.’

‘It comes with age,’ she said, wisely.

‘I don’t want to wait that long.’ Maggie raised an eyebrow. ‘Sorry, I’m not saying you’re ancient or anything.’ He flushed crimson.

‘I know what you mean. You’re a good lad,’ she said briefly patting his forearm. ‘Thanks for all you’ve done over the last few days. I really do appreciate it.’

‘Do you still miss your son?’ Tom’s eyes were searching.

‘Every day,’ she said and he nodded his understanding. ‘Losing someone special is like being given the perfect gift only to have it whisked away from you.’

Tom gave her a weak smile and turned to look out of the window.