Patricia purses her lips. ‘Now, wouldn’t that be something!’

I’m still puzzling over what it is that would help Patricia get the most out of her week here. She hasn’t really connected with anyone except me, although she has a soft spot for Kellie.

‘What’s on your agenda for this afternoon?’ I ask.

‘Oh, I thought maybe I’d tag along with Ceana’s group. I think she’s giving pruning tips and demonstrating how to take cuttings. It might come in useful, although my garden is mostly grass with only two borders. No trees, but a couple of climbers and a large collection of prize-winning rose bushes.’

Somehow, I worry she isn’t really getting into the spirit of things. It’s as if she prefers to watch rather than join in.

‘I noticed there wasn’t anyone down for Odile’s pottery class this afternoon. If I wasn’t already committed to the painting group, I’d switch, but it’s only day two and I don’t want Nico to think I’m giving up already,’ I joke, dropping a big hint.

‘Oh, I didn’t realise. Maybe I could give that a go instead.’

‘Why don’t you talk to her at lunch, find out what’s on offer?’

‘I will, thank you.’

It’s not long before Kellie and three others join us and, this morning, Ceana has moved us across to begin weeding one of the vegetable patches. The rows extend out seemingly endlessly and it’s already getting very warm, so it’s going to be hot work.

Everywhere around us is filled with the sounds of buzzing bees and birdsong; summer is a busy time and every little creature has a full agenda, it seems.

‘Can I just remind everyone to take frequent breaks in the shade? I’ll pop back up to the kitchen and grab one of the cool boxes so there’s plenty of water on hand.’

They’re a cheery bunch this morning and already there’s a little banter going on. I think two new faces will make a big difference. You only need one chatty person to encourage everyone else to join in and create an air of camaraderie. John isn’t someone I’ve really spoken to, but he has a natural sense of humour and it’s good to hear a little laughter.

As I’m walking back to the kitchen, my phone begins to ring. I yank it out, glancing at the screen, but it’s too bright to see anything.

‘Hello?’

‘Fern, it’s me! God, it’s good to hear your voice!’

I stop in my tracks. My stomach does a somersault.

‘Aiden. Oh… same here, darling.’

‘We’re in town picking up some supplies. As I finally have a decent signal, I just wanted to… I mean, you’re on my mind all the time.’