‘It’s mainly about money,’ he admitted, looking away. ‘There are other things, but the money’s the key. We’re in debt to a builder and the taxman and I haven’t dared tell Steph. I thought I could sort it out, but I can’t. And Steph tells me our summer bookings are down, when I was relying on them to rescue us. We’re always full in the summer!’ There was an edge of desperation in his voice she had never heard before. ‘The thing is, Ronnie, if things don’t pick up, we could lose everything!’

Ronnie took his hand and squeezed it gently. ‘Look, Dave . . .’ That made him smile despite the stress. She never called him Dave. ‘You’re going to have to tell Steph. Tell her tomorrow. Wait till we’re out of your hair. Take her away from the B&B. For a drive, maybe. I don’t know why, but it’s easier to be honest in cars. Or a walk, at least. And just tell her.’

‘I expect you’re right, but Jesus, I’m dreading her reaction. She’ll blame me for everything. And she’ll be right. I’m the man . . .’

‘Oh for God’s sake, David, what century are you living in?’ Ronnie demanded. ‘Isn’t modern marriage supposed to be about facing things together, and all that crap? Knowing my sister, she’ll probably be more pissed off with you for not telling her than for getting into difficulties in the first place.’

‘You’re probably right,’ sighed David. ‘I’ll tell her when she gets back from the airport. The guests should be out by then.’

‘Good lad. Do you know –’ she yawned and stretched – ‘even I think I’m ready for bed.’ She got up, then held out a hand to pull him up from the depths of the cushiony sofa. ‘Courage, mon brave, time to grab the bull by the horns and other clichés. I’m sure you’ll feel better afterwards.’

Fifteen

‘Thank you so much, Auntie Steph, for all you’ve done!’ Nicky flung her arms round Steph. ‘The château is so absolutely perfect. I can’t wait to get married!’

Nicky and Ronnie were waiting at the tiny airport and had even managed to procure a coffee from the pull-along stall that looked as if it would be happier at a rock festival. Their suitcases had been taken and their tickets checked by a lady in a t-shirt with the cheery slogan COME FLY WITH ME.

Nicky left them to check her phone and Steph looked round for somewhere to sit other than the hard benches. They seemed to be the only takers so far for the UK flight but no doubt the French would arrive, as usual, at the last minute.