Page 33 of Maybe Tomorrow

‘I’m thinking about Alice’s mum and dad.’

‘What about them?’

‘I saw them in the church. They were crying. I mean, really crying their eyes out. I looked around and everyone else was crying, too. Even Mum wiped her eyes a few times. I didn’t.’

‘I didn’t cry either, Anthony. But I still felt sad. You don’t have to cry when you feel sad.’

‘But I don’t know if I felt sad or not. I just felt the same as I always do.’

‘You didn’t really know Alice, though, did you? You saw her about once a week for ten minutes or so. It’s not like seeing your mum, or me, is it? You see us all the time. I’m guessing when one of us dies, you’ll be crying buckets. At least, I hope you will,’ he said, nudging him and smiling.

Anthony smiled back. ‘Are you dying?’

‘Not for a very long time.’

‘Good. I will be sad when you die. I promise.’

‘Thank you. Why don’t you come downstairs? It’s been a busy day. I’m sure your mum will let you have a slice of cake.’

‘I’m really tired.’

‘OK. I’ll leave you to get some sleep. You are all right, aren’t you?’

‘Yes.’

‘You’d tell me if there was anything worrying you?’

‘Yes. We’re best friends,’ Anthony said with a smile. ‘And best friends always share. That’s what you told me.’

‘Exactly,’ Leo said. He stood up and went over to the door.

‘Leo, a policewoman came to the library this afternoon.’

‘Did she?’

‘Yes. She brought Alice’s books back.’

‘Oh. Did she say anything?’

‘She was asking Mrs Wilkinson about people who came into the library and if Alice ever came in with anyone.’

‘What did Mrs Wilkinson say?’

‘She just said that Alice always came on her own. Sometimes with her mum.’

‘Did this policewoman say anything else?’

‘I don’t know. I went into the back room.’

‘I see,’ Leo mused. ‘Right, well, you go to sleep, Anthony, and I’m sure you’ll feel better in the morning.’

Leo unlocked the door and left the bedroom, closing it firmly behind him. He went downstairs and into the kitchen where he found Pauline sitting at the table. The teapot was in front of her, steam coming out of the spout. She looked up with worry etched on her face.

‘How is he?’

Leo pulled out a chair and sat down. ‘He’s fine.’

‘Really?’