After the service, they gathered at Carina’s for cake. Maria and Josie cuddled up together while Josie played a game on Nico’s phone. Nico tried to start a conversation with Mattias and Felicia, though Mattias didn’t seem to have much to say. Hannah went into the kitchen with Carina to make drinks.

As she took down cups and saucers Carina said thoughtfully, ‘I’d love to see Nico really happy.’

Hannah nodded, though she wasn’t sure why Carina was sharing. ‘He seems relieved to have left his job.’

Carina shrugged. ‘Happiness is more linked to people.’ She arranged tarts and a cake on a rectangular platter and Hannah carried it into the other room. Josie and Maria instantly revived and tucked into bruin-brown Körsbärschokladtårta or chocolate cherry cake.

Carina addressed Nico as she passed around napkins. ‘I have something to say to you.’

Nico lifted an enquiring eyebrow. Hannah fielded a half-chewed cherry Maria was trying to drop beneath the table as if feeding an invisible dog.

After a moment to take one of the hazelnut tarts called Kejsarkronor, Carina went on. ‘Before I knew Maria and Hannah would be with us this week and Lars fell ill, I’d arranged a surprise – to take Nico and Josie to Stockholm on Tuesday and Wednesday. Mattias and Felicia will be at work, of course.’ She smiled at Josie’s sudden indrawn breath. ‘I promised you a visit to Skansen to learn more about Sweden, Josie, didn’t I?’

Hannah instantly perceived herself and Maria to be the flies in this plan’s ointment. ‘Don’t cancel it unless you think you need to be near Lars. I’ll stay with Maria.’

Carina smiled comfortably. ‘But I’ve talked to the hotel and they can add another room to the booking for you so we have one family room and two singles. Finns det hjärterum så finns det stjärterum.’

Hannah giggled because that translated to if there’s room in the heart there’s room for the bottom. Then she sobered. ‘Actually, I’d hoped to make contact with my ex while here and he does live in Stockholm.’

Carina looked taken aback, the smile fading from her dark eyes. ‘Ah. There’s someone in your life.’

Hannah snorted. ‘He’s only “in my life” in that he owes me money. I’d like to encourage him to settle up.’ Briefly, she outlined the story of Hannah Anna Butik. ‘The ratbag’s declining my calls. Tracking him down in person might make him realise I’m not going to be meek.’

Carina’s smile returned full force. ‘We’ll make time for you to “encourage” Albin.’

Josie was bouncing in her seat, obviously awaiting her turn in the conversation. ‘Is Skansen the place with the animals, Farmor?’