Chapter 29 ~ December 26 Just Like the Ones We Used to KnowCamelia, Leon, Sophie, and Steve arrived in a somber clump; early, as arranged. Their greetings were subdued as Rita’s husband, Dave, hung up coats and patted shoulders and offered drinks. His steady presence was a relief as Camelia was momentarily overwhelmed with memories of past holidays, half expecting Freda to come around the corner any moment. She swallowed the lump in her throat and went to find Rita in the kitchen.
“My friend. I’m so sorry. How you holding up?” Camelia asked after a long hug, her tear-filled eyes searching Rita’s.
“You know, it’s just weird right now,” Rita said. “I mean, it’s not real yet. I can’t believe Mum’s gone, even though we all knew this day would come, sooner or later.” She continued wiping down
