Page 57 of Dancing Fools and All That Jazz

Fay

I have never felt so useless. My folding wheelchair is too tight a fit into the narrow entrance of my flat and Ingrida has to support me as I hop into the lounge.

At least I can use the wheelchair in here and can get to the bathroom as everything is on one level but answering the door will not be easy.

‘Fay, do you have spare key so I can call tomorrow?’

‘Yes. Thank you, Ingrida. There is one hanging up on the key rack by the door.’

‘I have unpacked your case for you, ja? And put it under the bed.’

‘Ingrida, I cannot thank you enough.’

‘I will make for you a cup of tea before I go. The taxi said it would wait.’

I take out my purse and hand Ingrida a few notes. ‘For the taxi fare. Please, you must take it. What would I have done without you?’

‘Thank you, Fay. You are very kind. I think tomorrow, you must make appointment with fracture clinic so they can check your leg. I may be able to take you.’

‘Most kind. And I hope you do not mind me saying so, but Ingrida, you seem very much happier today.’

‘ Ja . I have very good news and I hope I can share this with you tomorrow, but I must wait for now.’

‘Well, that sounds intriguing.’

‘How is leg feel?’

‘Throbbing and hot but I suspect once I have rested it overnight, it will be vastly improved. You get on now. And again, many thanks.’

Ingrida waves as she takes the key and heads off.

I feel utterly spent, but no wonder after the long journey home from France. It was exhausting.

As I sip my tea, I smile thinking of our weekend in Paris and I glance at the photograph of Edith and Bethan with a renewed hope in my heart.

I take more painkillers and close my eyes, not caring if I sleep all night in my chair.