Judy met Rob’s amused glance with a smile of resignation. ‘Of course we don’t mind. Do we, my dear?’

Henry’s jaw dropped. ‘Oh! Are you two celebrating as well? I’m sorry I didn’t mean to interrupt.’

‘No, it’s quite all right,’ Judy assured him. ‘Rob just proposed to me. I haven’t given him my answer yet, but don’t worry, Henry, I’m still thinking about it. Please do fetch Clara. We can’t allow a lady in a delicate condition to go hungry, can we, Rob?’ She smiled angelically and turned her attention to the menu.

Two can play at that game, Rob Dorning. She shot him a sideways glance. Now you don’t know what I’m thinking.

Chapter Twenty

Clara was apologetic and clearly uncomfortable during the meal even though Judy tried to reassure her that they were not imposing. However, Clara’s appetite did not seem to be affected and she ate well, although she refused wine and opted for water instead. When she finished the last spoonful of dessert she replaced her spoon in the bowl.

‘I’ve been thinking, Henry.’

‘Yes, my dear. What about?’

Clara shot him a sideways glance beneath long, dark eyelashes. ‘Well, we’ve taken poor Rob’s room, and I think it very unfair that he has no bed for the night.’

‘I assure you I can sleep anywhere,’ Rob said hastily. ‘Please don’t worry on my account.’

‘But I do feel concerned.’ Clara’s green eyes filled with tears. ‘The hotel is so crowded there will hardly be a seat free, let alone anywhere to lie down.’

‘Don’t upset yourself, my love,’ Henry said anxiously.

‘I’m quite all right, but what I suggest is that Judy and I share a room, and you and Mr Dorning have the other.’

Judy could see the sense in this, and she, too, had been concerned for Rob. ‘I agree. If Clara doesn’t mind, then neither do I. It seems to be the most sensible arrangement.’

Rob looked as if he was about to refuse, but Henry insisted that his wife was right and that it was the only fair way to allocate the accommodation.

‘That’s settled then,’ Clara said firmly. ‘I’m very tired and I’d like to retire now, Henry.’

He rose to his feet. ‘Of course, my love. Shall I take you to your room?’

‘That won’t be necessary.’ Judy was already on her feet. ‘I’m exhausted, too. I’ll see you in the morning, Rob. It’s been a lovely day, even allowing for the peasouper.’

Rob half rose from his seat. ‘Good night, Judy. I’ll see you at breakfast. Good night, Mrs Parsons.’

Clara answered with a weary smile and allowed Judy to lead her from the dining room. ‘I hope you don’t mind sharing with me, Judy. It seems a terrible imposition.’

‘Not at all. In such circumstances it’s the least we could do.’

They walked on in silence until they came to the room that Judy should have had to herself and Clara flopped down on the bed. ‘Are you going to accept Rob’s proposal?’