‘We could go this morning, if you like?’ her father suggested. He was aware that he hadn’t spent nearly enough time with her in the past and was feeling guilty, although looking back, whenever he had suggested they do something she had always made an excuse not to. Still, he thought, better late than never.

And so, just after ten thirty, they set off. It was an awkward journey as despite Oscar’s best efforts to begin a conversation she would merely give a short reply and stare back out of the train window. He was also feeling decidedly uncomfortable now and was wondering if this had been such a good idea. After all, this would be the first time Miranda and Ruby had seen each other for some time and he knew how spiteful Miranda could be.

Even so, Aunt Hermione seemed pleased to see him when they arrived, although she said little to Miranda, who she had never grown close to. ‘You’re just in time for lunch, I’m sure we can rustle something up for you,’ she invited as she pecked her nephew on the cheek. ‘Mrs B has made a panful of her delicious beef broth and some wonderful crusty bread to go with it so there’s more than enough to go round.’ She narrowed her eyes and peered at Miranda. ‘And how are you settling down at your new school?’

‘Very well thank you, Aunt Hermione,’ Miranda simpered. ‘I’m still a little homesick but then as Father said that’s to be expected, so I’m sure I shall be fine.’

‘Hm!’ Hermione was surprised to say the least. Miranda was usually such a surly girl, but then she supposed she shouldn’t complain. At least she was making an attempt at being civil. Could it be that the French school was doing some good already? She decided to reserve her judgement as she led them into the sitting room, then bustled off to ask Mrs B if she would get them all some tea.

‘And how is young Ruby settling in?’ Oscar asked when she returned.