‘You came through it, though. That’s all that matters. And I agree with you, but the food chain is what it is and we need to eat to live. I hate waste, but I don’t have qualms about what I eat.’

We lapse into silence as I tidy away the wrappings from lunch and snap the lid back on the plastic box. Kellie bites into an apple and we both stare out over the orchard.

This is bliss. At home it’s either too wet, too cold, or too hot. Here, even when the temperature soars, as long as I can find a little shade, it feels therapeutic. It warms from the outside in and lifts the spirits. The air is fragrant and that adds to the sense of well-being. I wonder if it’s because I associate that with other holidays, or whether it’s a part of the charm of Provence? Maybe everyone has a special place with which they connect and this is mine.

‘Can I ask your advice about something, Fern?’

‘Feel free, but it will only be my opinion, remember.’

‘I’m thinking that I’d like to extend my stay here if Nico will let me. My parents can afford it and I think they’ll be relieved not to have me hanging around for another week or so. I love working on the garden and Taylor’s pretty cool. He thinks I play quite well and he’s very patient.’

‘It sounds to me like you’ve already made up your mind. I’m sure Nico will be fine about it, but you might have to change rooms. So, why are you hesitating?’

‘I wanted to ask if you’re here permanently. It’s just that I know Patricia is leaving on Friday and you’re the only other person, besides Taylor, I feel really comfortable around. But I know you aren’t a tutor, as such.’

Ah. That touches my heart.

‘Yes, I’ll be here for the foreseeable future.’

‘You said your husband is travelling around and maybe if he gets to really miss you, he’ll fly back to the UK early. You know, you might both get homesick.’

I draw in a long, slow breath. She’s an intelligent young woman and deserves an honest answer.