He had probably expected the same thing I expected at the airport.

An ordinary response from people who knew us.

There was no note saying they were certain to disappoint him.

He had built in alternatives because sensible precautions allow for missed calls.

I would not turn those precautions into a secret accusation he had left for me.

Still, two declined calls were two declined calls.

The hospital cafeteria television was showing footage of our street when Ruth and I returned for another cup of coffee.

At first the sound was too low to follow.