When we enter, there’s a flurry of hellos, hugs and introductions, as Pierce brings up the rear. When Kellie and Patricia hug, there are tears in their eyes. Patricia seems happy, but I can’t wait to find out what Stefan is doing as her driver. I’d assumed it would be her husband, so this is a total surprise – I just hope it isn’t bad news.

‘Ah, you are here!’ Margot barrels in, heading straight to Patricia, and we all step back. ‘Oh, another surprise. Stefan, alors! If I had known, I would have made your favourite bouillabaisse. No one tells me anything. Lunch is ready. Come, take off your coats; it’s time to eat.’

I have no idea what’s going on, but the atmosphere is jolly and everyone is more than happy to begin filling their plates.

From the assorted charcuterie, the potato salad with aioli sauce, the taboulé, to the goose stuffed with prunes and dates, it’s a feast. And in pride of place is the Bûche de Noël – Christmas Yule Log – at which Margot has excelled herself.

With the music turned down a touch, it’s hard to hear it at all above the chatter and ensuing laughter.

I’m not sure anyone other than myself is aware that Patricia has a husband, so the question isn’t raised, but I’m curious. Stefan simply explains that he’s touring the UK and stopped off to visit Patricia. She’s selling her holiday cottage over here and he couldn’t resist offering her a lift. ‘Any excuse for a trip to France,’ he adds.

‘Are you staying in France for a while?’ Kellie asks.

Stefan looks across at Patricia, who duly answers.

‘Maybe a week. I have a few things to sort out and take back with me; Stefan very kindly offered to be my transportation. There isn’t much, just a couple of boxes of personal effects before the property goes on the market. It will be rather nice to experience one more Christmas there, as the neighbours are wonderful. The final goodbye will be tough, I will admit, but it’s time to let it go.’

The conversation moves on quickly. Patricia isn’t a secretive lady, just very private.

Once the meal is done and the table is cleared, Patricia asks me if I could give her a tour, so she can see the recent changes. As we pull on our coats, she reaches out to touch Nico’s arm as he’s walking past us.

‘Could you join us, Nico?’

He immediately flashes her a smile. ‘Of course, Patricia. Give me a moment to grab my jacket from the cloakroom.’

Stefan walks over to hand her something rather discreetly and she slips whatever it is into her pocket. Then she curls her arm around mine and we step outside.

‘Is everything all right, Patricia?’ I ask as we loiter.