He did not send a private ambulance or summon specialists without permission.

That small restraint mattered to her more than he expected.

On the day of the procedure, Sophie stayed with May.

Vincent waited in the public hospital café because June had permitted him to be nearby but hadn’t wanted a crowd.

He read the same newspaper paragraph six times, unable to absorb a word.

May found him when June was recovering comfortably.

“She asked whether you ate anything,” May said.