‘That’s the understatement of the year. It’s like living on the slopes of a volcano! Lars and Hannah can’t even look at each other, let alone work together. If it gets much worse, I’m afraid he’ll leave. And I have no idea how I would manage without him. I can’t get rid of bloody Viktor until the lodge is completely finished, but I’ve warned him about hurting her.’

‘And?’

‘He just laughs and says she’s splendid and he adores her. And Hannah tells me it’s none of my damn business.’

‘I can try talking to her, to find out how she really feels. Poor Lars. He does love her – I’m sure of that. The sad thing is, he’s absolutely ideal for her, if only she wasn’t so stupid.’

‘I know.’ Piet gave her a lopsided grin. ‘It seems to run in the family. But this thing of Hannah’s is not going anywhere. Viktor will never settle down on a farm. Or anywhere. And Hannah wouldn’t want to leave Langani. At least I can’t imagine it.’ He paused, and his arms tightened around her. ‘Anyway, enough of my shauris. You’re starting a new job next week. A new life. I’ll come up to see you in Buffalo Springs if I can get away. But in any case, you’ll spend Christmas at Langani with Hannah and me. And maybe Ma and Pa will be here too. Is that all right with you?’

She slid on to his lap, put her arms around his neck. This was going to be hard. She wanted to shout her love to the sky, but she realised she must go carefully. She mustn’t rush him. It was enough, for now, to have these moments to hold in her heart. He kissed her again, holding her tight and then took her hand.

‘Better get down to the horses. Kipchoge and Simon will have turned to stone.’

It had started to rain by the time they reached the lodge. Piet dismounted, and helped Sarah down, leaning in against her as he lifted her from the saddle, looking into her eyes. She put out a hand to trace his lips.

‘There you are. How was the ride?’ Hannah greeted them cheerfully. Sarah turned, startled, and busied herself with the stirrup leathers, her face hidden from Hannah’s knowing gaze. Behind her on the steps David stood in his starched drill uniform, and white chef’s apron. ‘We have a tour de force prepared for lunch,’ Hannah said. ‘You just have time to freshen up before we start.’

‘I know how those lions felt this morning,’ said Sarah later, with a groan. ‘I can’t believe I ate that much. I won’t be able to move for a week.’