‘I know. And I’m fine with that. I just wanted to be happy. I’ve never been that fussed about a fancy career or money, I know that doesn’t mean success.’

‘For some it does. Like old Ma Mortimer.’

‘Yes, but not me. And when Digby proposed, it was like something opened up inside me, it brought me peace. As though I’d been worrying about my future without really knowing it and then I didn’t have to worry any more, because it was laid out in front of me, and it felt wonderful. All I’ve ever wanted was enough of a wage coming in for the odd luxury, to be able to put food on the table, and a family.’ She felt her gut fold at the image she conjured of her babies, picturing herself in the matriarchal role her mother performed so well. ‘That’s it, really: domestic bliss. I know it’s not always the most fashionable ambition, but I can’t help that.’ She wiped her eyes on the corner of the pillow slip. ‘I felt grateful he’d asked me. He talked of places I’d yet to see and fancy holidays, swish restaurants, travel. All the things that “other people” did. And I nearly became “other people”. I loved him, Ruby – I love him.’ The admission made her voice catch. ‘Marrying him felt a bit like taking a short cut into the life I wanted: a comfortable life that meant I could make a wonderful home and raise my children. And we would have done it right here in Port Charles.’

‘You’ll build a different future. You can still have all of that, just not with that prick.’

‘Maybe.’ She felt the dream slip from her, knowing that to give in to that kind of love, that kind of promise, was too risky. She would never put herself in this position again. Never.

‘Go to sleep. Close your eyes and go to sleep. I’ll sit right here and I won’t leave until you wake. Try and rest, Merrin Mercy.’

‘Thank you, Ruby. I do love you.’ She closed her eyes, which felt full of grit, and wished she could sleep for a hundred years.

‘I love you too.’ Despite her whirring thoughts and broken spirit, it was the last thing Merrin heard before sleep claimed her.

Merrin woke the next morning and lay still in the bed. Her night had been fretful with regular wakeful interruptions to sob into her pillow or stare out of the window, where every corner, every wall, every patch of grass and every lane held an image of her and Digby together. It was almost more than she could stand. With her head still pounding and her eyes swollen, she looked over at her sister.

‘Morning.’ Ruby stretched. ‘Tea?’