‘Oh, Harriet, it will work out alright; she’ll see the error of her ways eventually. I’ll ask Jane to make a fuss of Rosie at the ball and to introduce her, as I say, to some of the eligible young men in the district. Hopefully she will return home with her eyes open and realize that Ethan is not for her. Now, once winter is over, and if you are not too busy on the farm, you must come back and keep your hand in at Atkinson’s. After all, you are a part shareholder and you should have your say in the running of the stores. We could have tea together, if there is nothing to discuss, and it is just good that we are close again. Mother would be so happy that we are no longer at loggerheads with one another.’ Isabelle smiled at her sister-in-law; she had missed Harriet over the years and was glad of her being there now for support.

‘I will. It is just the travelling to Skipton this winter that will keep me away. The nanny has been perfect with Georgina, and Rosie is good with her, too. And as for Ben, well, he’s growing up quickly, so I would like to come back in spring, once the worst of the weather has gone. I’ve enjoyed my time here with you, albeit brief and under terrible circumstances.’ Harriet bowed her head, thinking of all the hurt James had caused with his fling. But at the same time she was glad that the misfortune had brought down the barrier between her and Isabelle.

‘Well, what he did to me still hurts me and the family, but hopefully it will make us stronger. He chose his moment, though, didn’t he? Just after my mother dying – a time when I was at my most vulnerable. It will take me a long time to forgive him. And I think a lot of Jane’s behaviour lately is a result of his stupidity and his actions. Thank heavens Luke is away from it all at Giggleswick.’ Isabelle sighed. ‘Still, some good has come out of the bad, and just look at us two: thick as thieves once more, and for that I’m thankful.’