Page 85 of The Winter We Met
‘We should write and thank the editor, again. I’ll email him tomorrow, if you all like,’ I said.
‘I’ll set up Misty’s Minibar at the hatch, in here, right?’ asked Oliver.
‘Love the name,’ I said.
He beamed. ‘I’ll make the eggnog cocktails and the Snowflake Martinis everyone liked, along with alcohol-free versions and a couple of Martini cocktails seeing as that’s what most of you suggested. I’m working on a menu that will list all the choices. Misty’s been great about donating ingredients and I’ll bring along some of our most popular bar snacks.’
‘Why don’t we serve soft drinks and coffees from there too,’ said Pan. ‘That way both the dining room and lounge will feel really sociable all afternoon.’
With slow writing, Gran noted that down.
‘The choir will turn up at five to sing carols,’ said Lynn. They will perform in the corridor so that people can hear in both areas.’
‘And things are winding up at half past five?’ asked Nik.
Lynn nodded. ‘The choir will make a nice finale. Our cooks will just put on a small Sunday lunch for residents, at twelve – perhaps soup and rolls. That way everyone will have an appetite to enjoy the buffet.’ She looked around. ‘Two until five-thirty is a long time and if anyone feels they need to retire to their room for a break, or bit of quiet, there’s no shame in that.’
‘Not likely,’ said Alf. ‘I don’t think I’ve been to a party since last year’s bash.’
‘We don’t mind if you need to take a break though, Lynn,’ said Fred. ‘We all know you youngsters can’t keep up. There’s no stamina these days.’
Everyone laughed, Lynn included, then her face turned serious. ‘This might be the last time I can speak to you, all gathered together like this, just us…’ She looked past Nik, Oliver and me standing near the corridor, and beckoned. Several of the carers came in and stood at the front with her. ‘We just wanted to say… the closing of Willow Court, it’s the last thing any of us wanted. You’ve all become our extended family.’ She glanced at her colleagues who nodded. ‘We’re really going to miss every single one of you – Pan’s stylish dress sense, Alf’s skills with dominoes. We’ve loved hearing Fred’s firefighting stories and Glenda’s tales of travel…’ On she went, mentioning people’s names, demonstrating how her job was much more than just a way of paying the bills. ‘You’ve given us all perspective…’ Her voice wavered. ‘About what really matters in life. You’ve taught us so much, sharing your life experiences. We wish you all well.’
A tear streamed down her face. Other carers dabbed their eyes.
‘You’ve made a bloody big difference to our lives, that’s for sure,’ said Fred in a croaky voice.
‘How about three cheers?’ called Glenda.
‘Hip hip…’ Everyone else joined in with Alf.
‘I’m so glad we’re going to be all together forever, up on Pebble Rock,’ said Pan.
‘Talking of which, we’d better make a move,’ I said. ‘Oliver promised Misty he’d drop in to help with the last couple of hours of the Wednesday all-night happy hour. You normally work the whole of that shift, don’t you?’
He nodded. The carers mingled with the residents, hugs and kisses were exchanged. Nik said goodbye to Glenda. Oliver and Alf chatted.
‘I won’t be long, Gran. Are you sure you’re okay with Buddy?’
‘Yes. He’s good company. He never argues and is warmer than a hot water bottle.’ She shot me a meaningful look. ‘You haven’t asked about your mum. You think she’s not going to reply or turn up on Sunday?’
I didn’t answer.
‘She always was a last-minute sort of person. I’m not expecting an email response. Karen contacted us as soon as she saw that photo. There’s no doubt in my mind that she’s keen.’
‘See you later. Whether Mum turns up or not we’re going to have a fab time.’
Nik and Oliver were waiting. I joined them and we headed out, smiling at Betty who stood holding her doll.
‘Has Betty got a new home sorted?’ asked Nik as we strode out into the dark.
‘Yes. Lynn’s worked hard with her family and Social Services. I think there are only five residents now, with uncertain futures and the council has found them temporary placements.’
‘It’s a miracle that anyone got sorted in such a short time frame,’ said Oliver.
‘I know, although Gran said some had been making enquiries at other homes for a few months, just in case, since the rumours started about Willow Court having financial problems. Has Krish’s grandad got dementia?’
‘No. Hearing and sight problems and he’s had a couple of falls – he’s living with Krish’s family, at the moment, recovering from his latest,’ said Oliver. ‘They all work full-time and are worried about him being left on his own. Apparently he was a massive fan of James Stewart back in the day andIt’s a Wonderful Lifeis his favourite film. He’s got a signed photo and has given it to Krish to bring, for the residents to look at.’
