One Bad Turn

by Sinéad Crowley

  ‘Is Leah going to be okay?’

  Heather nodded.

  ‘Physically, she’s remarkably well. She’s a very strong girl, and they’re very happy with her.’

  ‘That’s great.’

  There was something in Heather’s voice that she didn’t quite trust, but Eileen couldn’t focus on it now. Maybe later, when she was warmer.

  ‘I think – I think I need to rest now.’

  ‘Of course. I’ll leave you be.’

  Heather stood up, backed away, then stood still for a moment. Then she took a step back towards the bed, bent down and brushed her lips against Eileen’s forehead. Her touch was warm. It had been a long time since anyone had kissed her.

  ‘You get some rest. We’ll talk again tomorrow.’

  The door closed behind her and a draught wafted in.

  ‘Can you close the window, son? I’m freezing.’

  ‘It’s not open, Mam.’

  ‘Oh.’

  ‘I didn’t mean to leave you, Mam, you know that, don’t you?’

  ‘I do, son.’

  ‘I never meant for it to happen. It’s important you understand that.’

  ‘It’s okay, darling. Anyway, you’re here now.’

  ‘I’ve missed you, Mam.’

  ‘Me too, sweetheart. I’ve missed you so much, Alan.’

  ‘So will you come with me now? I’ve been waiting for you. But we have to go now.’

  ‘Of course I will, darling.’

  The liquid flowing into her veins was cold too and it took her just a moment to pull out the tube.

  It’ll fight the infection and you’ll be as right as rain.

  But Eileen didn’t want to feel right, she wanted to feel whole again. There was a bleeping noise and she knew she didn’t have long, that they’d be in here in a moment, trying to keep her with them. But she didn’t want to stay. Alan reached over and took her hand. His palm was warm, just as she remembered it.