"It's so good to see you."
"How are the girls?"
"Just fine. They're in school. They'll be back soon." She led him inside and gave him a tour of the house. He sat at a kitchen table and explained his situation while she made tea. Francesca didn't say anything until he finished.
"Jacky called me after your housewarming. She was worried about you."
"I like Jacky," Oliver said.
"She said Emma was a doll."
"Quite true," Oliver said.
"Oliver, where are you staying tonight?"
"I hadn't got that far yet." Oliver considered. "I don't know."
"Well, I do," Francesca said. "You're staying right here." She extended a long arm and pointed over his shoulder. Oliver turned and saw the bronze heart on a shelf, leaning against the wall. He could feel his thumb stroking the letters.