‘Let’s go and sit like civilised people and speak calmly.’ Lottie led them into the big drawing room where she could engineer more space between everyone. Did Lottie see sweat on her mother’s brow?

Once she’d settled Gramps, who looked at her with worried eyes, she studied her mother again. She wouldn’t sit and instead paced in front of the fireplace.

Alex walked in with the tea tray. ‘I thought this might help.’

It was after six and gin would have been wonderful, but Alex was right. ‘Thanks.’

‘Was it one of those nuisance calls?’ Gramps’ voice was weak.

‘Something like that.’ Alex handed him a drink. ‘It was Pat Treneer.’

George frowned, and her mother hopped to her feet.

‘He’ll call back later.’ He placed the tray down on a side table.

‘I would have spoken to him now.’ Her mother blew air out through her pursed mouth. ‘Someone came in to visit Pat just after I arrived at his house earlier.’ She gave Alex a searching look before walking towards Lottie. ‘Something isn’t right about my father’s death.’

Lottie looked away. Taking a deep breath, she schooled her features. She could do this – she looked at her mother.

‘Has your grandmother said anything more to you?’ Her mother took a step closer.

Lottie looked down thinking about Gran’s words, then said, ‘I think Gran has said everything she is going to say.’

‘Yes,’ her mother sighed, and her shoulders slumped.

‘Now is the time to just be with Gran.’ Lottie gave her a sympathetic look and Mum grabbed her hand and held it.

‘Yes, you’re right. I’ll head up to her now.’ She let go of Lottie’s hand and Lottie watched her go before closing her eyes. She hadn’t lied, she simply hadn’t told her everything. Opening her eyes, she saw Alex helping Gramps to his feet. He gave her an encouraging smile. At least she had pleased someone.

55. Lottie

55

Lottie

4 August 2018, 7.30 p.m.

‘I’ve just had a chat with the nurse and she’s just leaving. We’re to call her if we need her.’ Lottie stopped next to the record player. ‘What was Gran’s favourite?’

Gramps turned to her. ‘Any song by Nat King Cole.’

‘The nurse mentioned Gran can still hear so . . .’ Lottie swallowed a lump. ‘I thought . . .’

‘I’ll bring it up.’ Alex took the player and Lottie pulled out an old LP.

‘You two go on ahead.’

‘Can I help you, Gramps?’

He wiped his eyes. ‘I just need a moment.’