‘Now you’re asking … I’d say wellies.’ Max’s voice carried from the landing.

Why was this starting to fill her with dread? ‘Can Alfie come?’ It was sounding very like a walk somewhere, though it would soon be dusk.

‘Yeah, as long as he behaves himself.’

‘Of course. He’s very well trained. So, we’re outdoors then?’

‘Stop angling, woman. You’ll find out soon enough.’

‘Hate surprises.’

‘I can tell!’

She soon came back into the lounge, dressed in jeans, thick socks, and a cosy grey cable-knit jumper, with her tartan scarf on. She’d grab her coat and wellies, and Alfie’s lead, from the hall on the way out.

‘You look lovely.’ Max smiled from the sofa where he and Alfie had made themselves at home. ‘It’s just how I picture you. Like you were when I first met you that day.’

‘Thanks.’ Aw.

‘Very cuddleable in fact. Though I’m not even sure if that’s a word.’ And he stood up and gave her a quick hug as if to prove the point. ‘Yes, very cuddleable.’

It was an extremely gorgeous cuddle, all aftershave scented and big strong arms around her, if rather too brief. ‘Right, let’s go then. I want to know what I’m in for.’

‘Come on, Alfie. We’re on.’ The dog leapt from the sofa in excitement, and was soon following them down the stairs.

‘I’ve left the jeep just up the road a bit, on a single yellow; not sure how that works of an evening, so I hope it’s all right.’

The village streets were quite narrow and the traffic warden eager.

‘Yeah, it’s normally okay,’ Emma answered. ‘So, we’re not walking straight away?’ He was heading from the side alleyway out to his vehicle.

‘No.’ Again that teasing smile.

They reached the jeep and he opened the hatchback for Alfie to jump on in.

She felt she’d asked enough questions, so got in the passenger side and waited for Max to drive her to wherever it was they were headed. They set off down the main street towards the harbour where Max turned left and went along the coastal lane for 200 metres and made the turn into the beach car park.

‘Is this it?’ The words were out before Emma had time to stop them sounding disappointed. Some build-up that was. They could have just walked.

‘Yes, we’re here.’ Max’s tone was calm, measured.

Alfie gave an impatient whimper from the back; he just wanted out. Any walk was a good thing to him.

Emma tried her best to look enthusiastic.