Fran hugged her, realising that Peggy’s company was what she’d really been searching for. ‘Having you to talk to like old times is more soothing than tea,’ she replied. ‘It feels as if we haven’t done this in ages,’ she added, settling into the other chair. ‘It’s lovely to have you to myself for a wee while.’

‘It has been rather hectic lately, and I’m glad we have this chance to say a proper goodbye.’ Peggy grasped her hand. ‘Do you remember how we sat up half the night when you and Robert got engaged? And the times we spent gossiping into the wee hours about that hateful matron who treated poor Danuta so badly?’

Fran smiled through her tears and nodded. ‘And do you remember the night Ron and Frank came home three sheets to the wind after Brendon’s send-off? And the time we hid in here when Doris was being such a pain?’

Their reminiscences continued until the clock struck two and reminded them they had an early start. Feeling more at peace and prepared for the emotional day ahead, they hugged and kissed and went to their beds knowing they’d never forget a moment of that quiet and loving exchange and would hold tonight in their hearts like a precious gift.

Now it was Sunday morning and although the church bells were ringing to usher in a bright new sunny day, it felt to Fran as if a shadow had passed over the skies and settled into her heart. She was dreading the moment when she and Robert had to leave Beach View for the last time. But the ticking clock on the mantel seemed to hasten the moment of their departure and it felt as if only moments had passed since waking when it was time to don hats and coats and collect their suitcases from the hall.

Robert understood how difficult it was for her to say goodbye, and stood at her side as she hugged the other girls and Cordelia, and then drew Peggy into a loving embrace. ‘Please don’t come with us to the station,’ she begged. ‘To be sure I couldn’t bear it. But this isn’t goodbye, Auntie Peg, I promise. I will come back when I can, and I’ll write as soon as we get to London to let you know how we are and how things went in Ireland.’

Peggy held her close. ‘I’ll always be here for you, Fran. Never forget that.’ She drew back from the embrace and lovingly tucked a stray lock of Fran’s autumnal hair behind her ear. ‘Take care, darling girl,’ she managed. ‘And don’t be sad. You and Robert have a wonderful future ahead of you, and whatever happens in Ireland, know you’re very much loved.’

Peggy embraced Robert. ‘Take care of our girl, won’t you?’ she whispered.