‘Now I know I have to go and see them.’

Here’s my chance, Ninni thought. ‘Why haven’t you?’

‘I’m not used to imposing on my neighbours. If you do that in London you’re considered mad,’ he said with light laughter.

Ninni could hear Alma’s instructions in her head and almost rolled her eyes. She smiled at him instead.

‘You’re in luck. Tomorrow night we’re all going to plant potatoes at Sigrid and Olav’s farm. You could come if you want to. They would love it.’

He looked confused. ‘To plant potatoes?’

‘Yes. Everyone will be there. There will be a party afterwards.’ Ninni felt uncomfortable. Why hadn’t any of the others invited him?

‘Is this what Jens called dugnad?’

‘That’s the official word, yes. But really it’s more of an excuse to have a party on the beach. There will be beer, possibly wine, and I wouldn’t be surprised if Tobben brings a bottle of what he claims to be whisky, but is actually some witches brew he concocted in the barn. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.’

Jack’s smile grew slowly and Ninni’s heart jumped. She leafed through the exercise book she was still holding to hide her embarrassment.

‘When does it start?’

She was so aware that Jack was watching her.

‘Usually around three o’clock. It’s going to be a long day, I’m afraid. So if you’re not up for it, you don’t have to come.’ Ninni looked at him.

‘I would love to come. Since I don’t know the customs here, is there anything I should bring? Wine or food, or something else?’

Ninni shook her head. ‘You’re new, so you’re not expected to bring anything. There will be more than enough food and drinks, so don’t worry about that.’

‘Is there a dress code to this dugnad?’

‘We’ll be digging in a muddy potato field. I think you’re fine in wellingtons and jeans,’ she said, regretting her words when his smile broadened. ‘And a sweater for later,’ she muttered.

Ninni felt uncomfortable and embarrassed and did not like it. She frowned at him. ‘I’m sorry, but I have a deadline.’

‘And here I was thinking Norwegians were so hospitable,’ he said, clearly enjoying himself. He made no sign of leaving.

‘You’ve read the wrong guidebook, I’m afraid.’ Ninni pulled the computer closer to her. ‘I’ll see you tomorrow then,’ she said.

Jack stood up. ‘I’m looking forward to it.’

He gave Frikk another quick pat on the head, then climbed over the fence and walked away. Ninni tried to look without looking. She slowly let out her breath again. I shouldn’t have asked him, she thought. I really shouldn’t.

Chapter 9

There wasn’t a flag left anywhere, not a banner, no bunting or a bunad in sight. Jack remembered the hotel receptionist telling him that they would all go back to normal on the 18th of May. Apparently they had.

Mats waved at him through the window to his office. Jack waved back. The estate agent looked pleased with himself.