Chapter 29. The Last Night (1)

Alex wears her most comfortable dress, a deep royal blue with layers and billowing sleeves, hiding her true outfit underneath. A knock at the door has her glide across her flat to greet Mr. Manchester, whose eyes blink and go wide as he takes a step back. The unshaven landlord looks even more dishevelled than usual, wearing a pair of faded baggy trousers and a large dress shirt made of unwashed stains and thumb-sized holes. “Oh, Miss Alex,” he starts, then he clears his throat. “E-everything has been prepared.”

“Excellent,” she says, and she brings a hand to the man’s shoulder. “Thank you, for doing this, and everything else.”

“Not at all Miss,” he replies, tears gathering in his eyes. “Just part of- part of the job…”

Alex brings her arms around him. “I know it’s difficult. You truly are a fine man,” and she gives Mr. Manchester a light kiss on his head.

“Maybe after this you can wash up,” she continues. “And we get you some new clothes.”

The landlord t