"But I was hoping you would come home in a better shape - though, of course, I understand that your friend's unexpected death is what's most pressing on you right now, is it not?"
"Yes. She was very good to me and I'll never forget that. And, like you, she helped me recover some strength too. Oh, Mum, I was so lost, so… depressed is the word. And I was also ashamed of feeling that way, because you and Dad were so patient and helping me so much… But that - and please don't be angry with me for what I'm about to say - but that only depressed me even more, because it made me feel more guilty. Does it make any sense to you?"
"It does, Kathy. Nothing of what you've told me is a surprise to me. I understood how you felt and that's why, despite my anguish and fear these three weeks, I encouraged you to go so far away. And when you called and said you were travelling with Mrs. Sloan, whom you'd only known for a week, to her house, I encouraged you also, because you needed this adventure."
Estelle hesitated, not sure whether it was wise to pursue further frankness.
"Kathy, I think you're feeling guilty again, in the thought than I might be jealous of Mrs. Sloan. Is that so?
"Yes," she answered with a slight hint of surprise.
"Forgive my harsh openness, but I just wish to discharge you of as much suffering as I can. I never felt that, nor do I feel it now. I'm very, very happy that you found such a friend, and I only regret that you've had to endure her loss. You see, sometimes we need to hear from a stranger what our family is already telling us to really believe it. It's like when you've been taking the same pills for too long - they stop being effective and the doctor then prescribes a different medication."
Kathy looked at her mother in admiration. In her thirty-one years of life she had been witness to her parents' insight many, many times. But just when she thought they understood her no more, it turned out they did.
She smiled, and nothing else was needed between the two women.
They both went to their bedrooms. It was not only Kathy who was exhausted. Estelle had the burden of many months watching her daughter become sadder every day, and hadn't had a good night's sleep in a long, long time. Maybe tonight Kathy's smile could make her heart rally enough.