Crumbled tissue hit the ground, joining it's missing kin, also torn and crumbled; as she grabs for another. The tears won't stop falling down, the sobs did seize though. This behavior wasn't like her, the strong one. The one always in charge, only the weak would stumble to emotion; that wasn't her. The kids put of brave faces, was it for her benefit, their own, or a perhaps a bit of both? Friends brought hugs, words of various support and bakery goods.
"Can I come in Irene?" Molly asks quietly from the doorway, face presented with a blank expression.
"Sure, you didn't bring chocolate mousse did you?"
"No should I have?" She shakes her head violently and laughs.
"God no! I fail to understand how desserts are suppose to make me feel better, or bring Ned back."
"For me it was sandwich trays and cheese trays. I could built a tower with all the freaking bread! In fact I think you and Ned gave me a tray too." Both ladies eyes meet and laughter engulfs the room.
"Molly, I feel guilty for being happy. It doesn't seem right. Great and now I am whinnying!"
"I know it doesn't, it is ok though, trust me. I realized after Rick died that he'd want the best for me and the kids, no matter if that happiness was a someone new to share my life with or laughing with a friend. I know Ned would feel the same way. Far as whinnying goes, I haven't noticed so I won't worry about it."
"It's hard. But I am trying." Tears form again.
"I'll be with you every step of the way."