Avril had been bracing herself for their next meeting, endlessly debating how to tackle the subject on both their minds. Now, she’d have to wait several hours more, and when Sarah did come in, she’d go straight up to her room. But they couldn’t go on circling each other like a couple of wary dogs; for all their sakes, the situation had to be brought into the open and discussed. She’d waylay her in the hall, Avril decided; block her route to the stairs, and suggest they had a coffee together. Short of downright rudeness, Sarah would at least have to pause, giving Avril the opening she needed. Consequently, when, just after ten thirty, she heard her key in the lock, she immediately hurried out of the sitting room. Sarah, startled at her sudden appearance, said involuntarily, ‘Mrs Parish!’ Then, before Avril could speak, went on quickly, ‘Actually, I was wanting a word with you, to let you know I’ll be leaving soon.’ Avril stared at her, completely taken aback. ‘Oh, now, Sarah, surely—’ ‘Clive’s buying a flat, and once it goes through, he wants me to move in with him.’ Avril brushed that aside.
What do You think about Unfinished Portrait (2010)?
