“I’d like to make a toast to my neighbour,” said Mark. “To the man who kept the union together.”
Sophia, Annabel and Mark raised their glasses and an embarrassed Jim reluctantly raised his as well.
“Not that it will make much difference,” he complained.
“Don’t be so pessimistic,” said Mark.
“I’m sorry, it’s just that I dedicated so much time to making that meeting happen. We are relying on my income from Leeds and my sister is bleeding me dry.”
“You’re still subsidising her?”
“I, for one, am fed up with the entire business,” said Annabel. “Jim’s work still requires him to travel and I’m often left alone.”
Jim looked guilty.
“Are you okay, Annabel?” asked Sofia.
“She has her garden.”
“No, Jim, look.”
Jim followed Sophia’s concerned stare.
Annabel was slumped in her chair. Her ey
