“Of course you try to be brave,” Margaret said, resting one manicured hand on my forearm.

“A woman living alone in a small apartment has to find ways to fill the empty hours.”

“My house has four bedrooms,” I said.

Margaret gave a small, sad shake of her head, as if listening to a child describe an imaginary kingdom.

“Ethan has found such vibrant joy with Natalie,” Margaret said, loud enough for the auxiliary women to hear every word.

“They’re planning a grand life together, full of heritage and light.”