She washed the fresh tears away. What was he saying to Olivia? The thought was driving her barmy. She left the ablutions, her face tingling as the sun’s rays hit her wet cheeks. From the corner of her eye she could see Ralph standing outside the cookhouse next to Olivia. Beth was determined not to catch their eyes, so she lowered her head as she hurried towards their billet. She had her hand on the door handle when Olivia called over to her.

‘Beth! Don’t rush off, come and tell your side of events.’

Beth froze. What did Olivia mean by ‘her side of events’? Looking up, she saw that Olivia was smiling as she beckoned Beth to join them. Realising that Ralph couldn’t have said anything amiss, Beth reluctantly went over.

Eyeing her with sympathy, Olivia placed a hand on Beth’s shoulder. ‘Ralph told me you were upset, but I didn’t think you’d still be crying. What did they say to you? Ralph’s told me his version, but it looks like he’s underestimated how upsetting you found the whole process.’

Beth shot Ralph a glance from under her lashes. ‘If you don’t mind, I’d rather not talk about it,’ she said quietly. Glancing up, she gave Olivia a small smile. ‘It’s been a long day and I’ve not had anything to eat.’

Olivia jerked her head in the direction of the cookhouse. ‘The girls have done quite a good stew …’ She fell silent as Beth shook her head.

‘Thanks all the same, but I think I’ll give it a miss. Ta-ra, Liv.’ Turning on her heel, she started back to their billet.

Olivia called after her. ‘Beth?’

Beth half turned.

‘You really are tired – you forgot to thank Ralph for the lift!’