"Don't you go blubbing on me," she scolded me, "or I'm going to need to go have a moment of my own. Phew. Max, grab us a coffee, will you my love?"
"Coming right up, Mum," he said with a gentle laugh.
Emma handed me some kitchen towel and gave me another squeeze as I dabbed at my eyes.
"Sorry," I whispered. "Stupid feelings."
"Shows you're human, pet. Just take it slow and careful, yeah?"
"Not much choice. She's so busy I'm not going to see her for over a week."
"Really?"
"Yeah. I did the usual Mandy thing and went and met someone just before it all kicked off."
"You are a lot of fun to watch. But... you seem happy. Are you?"
"I am... I think."
I picked up another leaf and began to green it. "And... it's probably good, right? Let the nerves settle a bit, give her an opportunity t
