them both a cup of tea and settled herself down for a nice chat.
Oh well, she wasn’t rushed off her feet. She could spare ten minutes.
Christine was gratifyingly pleased to hear that the relationship with Louisa was now over. Leaning forward in her chair, she confided, ‘Always felt as if she was looking down her nose at me. I brought in some homemade shortbread one day and offered her a piece. My goodness, you’d have thought I was offering her live newts!’
Ellie warmed to her. ‘She was a bit iffy with me as well. Accused me of chasing after Zack.’
Christine’s pale eyes twinkled. ‘And were you?’
‘No!’
‘I wouldn’t blame you, mind. He’s definitely got it, hasn’t he? If I were twenty-five years younger I’d have made a play for him myself !’
Oo-er, missus. Maybe it hadn’t just been the crimplene causing those sparks to fly.
‘And how are things with you?’ Ellie changed the subject, struck by how cheerful Christine seemed. ‘Zack told me about your husband not being very well. It must be so much easier for you, not having to work full-time anymore.’
‘Well, actually, I am working.’ There was an audible crackle of static as Christine shifted in her chair and rested the saucer in her lap. ‘It was all quite fortuitous really. You see, the day care place couldn’t cope with Eric anymore. Now, I love my poor hubby to bits, but the two of us being at home together was too much. I don’t mind telling you, it’s a lonely old business. Anyway, my doctor suggested considering some respite care and I did a bit of research. We ended up going to look at a nursing home not far from us, then while we were there I happened to see a notice up on the board saying they were looking for part-time staff. Well, I spoke to the lady who runs the place and we reached an agreement. I’m working there three days a week and Eric comes along with me. And once or twice a week he stays overnight so I can go home and have an evening out, or just a rest on my own and get a proper night’s sleep. It’s working out really well, all things considered.’ Christine smiled bravely. ‘It’s nice to get to know other people in my situation. And Eric likes it too. Just because he’s losing his memory doesn’t mean he can’t enjoy other people’s company. It’s a good place, Stanshawe House. The staff are wonderful, and everyone’s so understanding. No one minds if Eric starts a game of chess then wanders off halfway through.’
Stanshawe House, Stanshawe House, why did that ring a distant bell? It only took a couple of seconds to make the connection. Should she mention it? Or keep quiet?
‘I think a friend of mine knows someone who lives there.’ For a moment Ellie couldn’t remember the surname; she had to conjure up a mental image of the painting in the flat, hanging above the mantelpiece in the living room. Having pictured it, she concentrated on the signature in the bottom right-hand corner: Martha Daines, that was it.
Christine took a sip of tea. ‘One of the residents? Who is it?’
‘Mr Daines.’
‘Henry?’
‘That’s the one.’
‘Oh, my dear, I’m sorry. Didn’t your friend tell you? Henry died a few weeks ago.’
Ellie sat back. ‘Oh, right. I didn’t know. Well, that’s… sad. What happened?’
‘Nothing dramatic.’ Christine shrugged. ‘Bless his heart, he was such a dear gentle soul. He just passed away in his sleep, which isn’t the worst way to go. He wasn’t in any pain. Do you think your friend knows he’s dead?’
Ellie shook her head. Tony had called for a long chat last night and he would have mentioned it. ‘I don’t think he does.’
‘Oh my goodness, I hope I haven’t spoken out of turn.’ Looking worried, Christine said, ‘Maybe he should speak to the family… Henry’s wife…’
‘Martha.’ Ellie needed to double-check that they were talking about the same man.
‘Yes, Martha. Poor darling, she took it very hard.’
‘It must be a terrible time for her.’ Ellie nodded in agreement. ‘I’m sure he’ll do that. I’ll let him know.’
They chatted for a while longer about Zack, then Ellie lifted the plant in its blue pot and carried it outside to Christine’s little car.
‘Bye then, dear. Thanks so much for the plant. And I’m glad you’ve settled in here. Give Zack my regards.’ With an unexpected twinkle, Christine said, ‘You can give him a kiss from me, if you like.’