Page 25 of Home This Christmas

TWENTY

Thankfully, I don’t have to wait too long before I am ushered into a cubicle in A I will put them through our washer–dryer.’

‘Thank you so much, June.’

‘Consider it done, hang on a sec.’ She disappears before returning with a plastic bin liner. ‘Just shove your things in there.’

I freshen up back in my room, thankful that I showered this morning, as it could be interesting trying to manoeuvre myself into the shower wearing this cast. I am thankful that I have a ground-floor room.

After June has taken my washing, I call Coleen.

‘Oh, you are joking!’ she exclaims when I tell her about my accident.

‘I’m afraid not. I’ll have to stay here this evening – there’s actually a wedding in the church that I’ve been told it will be okay to attend. It will give me a chance to practise walking on these crutches.’

‘On the ice?’ she asks, aghast.

‘Actually, there has been a fresh snowfall, so it isn’t slippy. Besides, it’s only across the road and June has offered to escort me there. What else will I be doing apart from feeling sorry for myself?’

‘I guess so but take it easy. I hope you’re back here for Christmas Day… Now you have even more reason to be waited on hand and foot.’

‘Thanks, Coleen. That’s really kind. I will keep you updated this end,’ I assure her.

‘Goodbye, my friend, take care.’