If only his father had not tried to grab Clem that day. If only he, himself, had not tried to intervene, then the accident would never have happened and his parents would not have quarrelled and Clem would have returned to Greystone’s Farm long ago, and the affair would never have started. If only life and love were simple.

Kerensa kept glancing anxiously at Oliver on the ride to Vellanoweth, but apart from giving her the occasional warm smile, he said nothing.

His horse had a longer stride than her pony and he kept Gereint in check so that they rode together.

She couldn’t bear it. ‘You haven’t told me why we are to see Kane today. Is there some special reason?’

‘I think it’s time I spoke to Jessica directly. I want to end the bad feeling between us.’

‘I don’t trust you.’

‘Do you not, Kerensa?’

She reined in. He stopped also, waiting patiently.

‘Oliver, look at me.’

He did so, turning Gereint round so he was facing her. ‘My dear?’

‘You obviously know Clem is leaving for home today. Do you intend to cause trouble?’

‘No, Kerensa, I do not.’

She narrowed her eyes. ‘Give me your word.’

‘It’s not necessary, but you have it. Shall we carry on?’ Kerensa took Kernick forward at a trot. Oliver stayed back a few strides then came forward and took his place beside her again. ‘Is that a new riding habit, my dear?’

She knew she cut a fine figure in the velvet two-piece habit, crisp white lace flowing from her wrists and throat. ‘Do you mind?’

‘Absolutely not. Buy as many dresses as you please. You look very beautiful. I’m proud of you.’

She felt increasingly nervous at his possessive undertones. ‘Thank you.’

By the time they rode into the farm yard, their mounts’ hooves clacking more loudly over the cobbles than her ears could stand, as if announcing to the whole world they were here and had come together, Kerensa felt she was collapsing inside.

Clem was at the side door, dressed for riding, holding his packed bags. Kane, Jessica and Harry were gathered on the doorstep and Ben Penberthy was bringing Tally forward. Servants and farm workers had gathered to say goodbye.

When Oliver lifted her down off the side-saddle, Kerensa felt chilled through to the bone and couldn’t stop shaking.

As her face passed his, she whispered, ‘Oliver, please don’t…’

She looked across at Clem. He came forward, head up, tight-lipped. Please don’t say anything, her eyes begged him.

Jessica was more feisty than her father.

‘If you’ve come to cause trouble, Sir Oliver, you can just get back on your horse, turn round and go back the way you’ve come.’

‘I’m here to see your father, Jessica.’