She finishes her breakfast way before I have even made inroads into mine; she's always had a healthy appetite, but Robs being Robs she'll be off for a run now, as like as not. I envy her sometimes. I never caught the exercise bug; piano and, later, cello consumed my free time, bar the small amount I had free for dancing. I can lose myself for hours in music. It's always been my primary escape from the harsh, jagged edges of the world. She's my other escape. Now, more so than ever, I can take strength from her loyalty and love. She pushes her chair away slightly, and then turns so that she can watch me while she finishes her coffee. I feel a little self-conscious, but I shove it aside. I need to eat properly this weekend, the rehearsal is likely to be long and I'll need my 'A' game. But

