'my grandfather took us all down to the shops on the beach , ' the little boy replied . i knew i wouldnt remember a lot of what she said , and anyhow i was too busy staring at the town . this was the same man who had fought at his side in a long ago military action that no one except those who had been involved in it even remembered . she 'd caught me profiling her and called me out . we 're totally perfect for each other . 