‘Gran,’ he began, holding his palms up in defence.

‘Here’s a question for you,’ she said. ‘Did Granddad’s will mention anything about you being in charge?’

He frowned. ‘No but—’

‘Or about me having to defer decisions to you?’

‘Well, no but—’

‘Precisely. Which means that you have absolutely no right to be demanding answers.’ She glared at him and he shifted his gaze from the floor to me and back again. He looked so uncomfortable that I was beginning to feel sorry for him. ‘From either me or my staff. Now, I’m prepared to discuss my plans with you, but under my terms and without feeling harangued. Understood?’

‘Fine,’ said Jensen flatly, looking like a beaten man. ‘But I’m going to need some coffee first to wake me up, I’ve had a long drive up from London.’

Betsy’s icy demeanour melted instantly. ‘Oh my poor boy, of course you have and I’m causing you more stress.’

‘I’ll put the kettle on,’ I said, pleased to be able to do something positive.

‘Proper coffee,’ Jensen added, eyeing up the jar of instant on the worktop.

Betsy caught my eye and gave me an amused wink, harrumphed and turned back to the door. ‘Oh, for heaven’s sake. Back to the house, city boy, and I’ll make you some fresh.’

‘Goodnight,’ he said to me, stifling another yawn as he trooped out of the cottage and stomped across the yard.

‘Typical,’ Betsy said with a tut. ‘Just as hot-headed as he was as a boy.’

‘It’s just because you’re his favourite person in the world,’ I said, ‘he told me.’

‘Oh, the dear child.’ She sighed. ‘But be that as it may, he’s deserted me. Would you mind walking me back to the front door? I haven’t brought my stick and my eyes are worse when the light fades.’

‘Sure.’

Jensen’s yawn was infectious and once I started I couldn’t stop.

‘Excuse me,’ I said, covering my mouth.

She tucked her hand through my arm as we made our way slowly back to the house, dodging the potholes.

‘Don’t tell me we’re boring you,’ she whispered, her eyes twinkled mischievously.

‘There is no chance of that.’ I laughed softly. ‘Anyway, tell me, did you enjoy your Italian?’

‘Oh yes,’ she chuckled, ‘once I’d memorized the menu. Although there was a young couple at the table next to us having a bit of a domestic. Such a shame. Apparently, the man threw money on the table and walked out, leaving her in tears.’

My heart thumped in horror.

‘Are you all right from here?’ I asked once we’d reached her front step. ‘Because I’d like to go and phone my sister.’