It could, however, exist beside friendship, purpose and unexpected joy.

His phone buzzed.

A photo from Hannah showed Sophie beside a bedroom wall decorated with stars, books and green curtains.

She held up a certificate for perfect attendance at school.

The message beneath read: She wanted you to see this before anyone else.

Nathaniel typed back that he was proud of her, then set the phone beside his coffee.

Teresa came over with the pot.

“The usual?”