Louise

Peggy is talking quickly

while Marla looks at the wall.

Here’s your pal.

Peggy scoots her chair sideways

to make room for me.

I was just talking to Marla about how exciting

it’ll be to move to Portsmouth.

Louise is down there.

Peggy lowers her voice.

She’s Mary’s girl.

I don’t know whether you knew she had children.

I’ve come across Donal.

Marla pulls at the IV line.

I told you already. I like my house.

I need new carpet on the stairs,

that’s all.

Peggy leans in.

It isn’t immediate.

We’ll get you packed up

and take all your things down there with you.

Marla reaches for me.

Her eyes are sad.

I only just got you back

and now we have to say goodbye again.

I can’t say goodbye again, Toffee.