‘We’ve known each other a long time, Kellie, as we met while we were still at school. Fortunately, we’ve grown together over the years, but this break is allowing us to explore our different interests. So, while we do miss each other, naturally, this is a time of self-discovery for both of us. Time we might never get again. I have a creative side of me clamouring for attention, but family commitments and work mean time is always at a premium. With Aiden, he longed to travel further afield and my fears have held him back. He sacrificed his sense of adventure because he loves me. We will get homesick at times, I know I already have, but this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. No one wants to live their lives regretting the things they didn’t do.’

She ponders on my words for a little while. We are both content to take in the ambience of the leafy setting around us. The myriad shades of green at every turn and the sound of rustling leaves overhead, as the breeze disturbs them, is restful. Time seems to have been temporarily suspended and I can’t help wondering if Kellie is feeling as at peace as I am.

‘You sound concerned that he will resent what he gave up for you. But you don’t seem to regret what you gave up for him.’

I’m shocked at her perception, because she’s spot on. I can feel her eyes as she stares at my side profile. Raking my fingers over the spiky grass, it feels good against my skin: grounding. My old life hardly seems real any more; already it’s like a distant memory.

‘It’s not as easy as that because I know he understands it’s extremely difficult to overcome a deep-seated phobia. I appreciate that and I’m happy with my life, so what’s to forgive?’

‘I’ve never felt that sort of love for someone. I hope I do, sometime in my life. I’d hate to settle for what my parents have. They never put each other first and never will. Sounds like you’d do anything for Aiden. Well, except jump on a plane.’

I swallow hard.

‘My eldest sister died in a plane that went down over the Mediterranean Sea in 2010. Sixteen out of the thirty-nine passengers and crew lost their lives.’ The words seem to come from someone else; matter-of-fact, almost devoid of emotion because, right now, it doesn’t feel real.

‘Oh, Fern, I’m so very sorry. I didn’t mean to pry. I wasn’t thinking—’