Chapter 10 Part 3

January 6^th, 2013

Morning

I’ve been staring through the tiny window all morning. I saw a single magpie on the way here. It tailed us in the car. Swooped down like we’d stolen its babe. Flew off into the distance like some mysterious harbinger of death. I waited for another. Even two. I think I would rather death than sorrow. At least death would put me out of my misery. Not give me another reason to want it. “I thought you might need this.” I hadn’t noticed he was even close. I’m a shotty receptionist. Damon is leant over me. His elbows on the counter. A disposable cup in his hands.

“What is it?” I lift the lid. Foam. Dark foam. Coffee?

“Cappuccino.”  He’s smiling. He’s got to know I’m not impressed. “I know. No coffee with milk in it. Just try it, won’t you?”

“Will it make you happy?” I’ve been struggling with the lid. I don’t know how the baristas get them on.

“Very.” I take a