David carried the mugs through and set them on the coffee table, handles turned towards the person they belonged to. It seemed so ineffectual to be making tea right now but it helped him a little bit to do something with his hands.
"Yes. I was told by an old friend in Wales who had heard. He wrote to me. I am so sorry. Words just can't express how sorry I am." He didn't want to tear up in front of them so he sighed and dithered, wanting to offer a hug but unsure if it was the right moment. "If you don't mind me asking, how did it happen?"
"Cancer," Iestyn replied shortly, sitting down next to the cat on the sofa. David let out a soft, "ah," and nodded, looking to Aderyn and gesturing for her to sit too. "I suppose there must be a good reason that we moved away," Iestyn added, plunging right in.
"How much did your mother tell you?" David asked, perching on the edge of his armchair.