‘You’ll marry Rob and be mistress of Creek Manor.’

‘Who told you that?’ Judy demanded angrily.

Pip dropped his gaze, staring down at his booted feet. ‘I dunno, Judy. Anyone can see that he likes you.’

‘And I like him, but that doesn’t make a romance. I hope you haven’t mentioned this to Ma or Nate.’

He shuffled his feet. ‘It was Nate who first mentioned it.’

‘I’ll have a few words to say to our brother when I get home.’ Judy glanced over his shoulder. ‘Don’t say anything else. Rob’s coming back.’

He came towards them with an apologetic smile. ‘I’m so sorry, Judy. McArthur has come up with a problem. I need to stay and sort it out.’

‘Of course you must. I don’t mind waiting.’

‘I wouldn’t hear of it. Pip will drive you home,’ Rob said hastily. ‘I’ll make it up to you, I promise.’ He turned to Pip. ‘See that your sister gets home safely, and come straight back.’

Pip tipped his cap. ‘Yes, sir.’ He climbed onto the driver’s seat. ‘Has Ma made cheese and onion pie today, Judy?’

She smiled. ‘As a matter of fact I think she did. It smelled delicious.’

‘Walk on.’ Pip flicked the reins. ‘That’s one thing I miss here. Ma’s cooking. It would be good if you did decide to move back to the manor house when it’s ready.’

‘It’s a long way off,’ Judy said evasively. ‘Never mind me. Tell me about yourself. I haven’t seen you for ages.’ She settled back against the squabs, resisting the temptation to look over her shoulder; she was certain that Rob was watching them until they were out of sight. She listened to her brother’s chatter all the way home, only hearing half of what he had to say. Her ankle ached and she closed her eyes, allowing Pip to ramble on until they arrived back at the Crooked Billet.

Molly took one look at Judy as Pip helped her into the taproom, and she shook her head. ‘Go and sit down by the fire in the parlour, Judy. You look awful.’

Judy managed a weak smile. ‘Thank you for those words of encouragement, Molly.’

‘Well, you do.’ Molly glared at Pip. ‘Why did you bring her home? Where’s Rob?’

‘Don’t blame me. I just follow orders.’ Pip sniffed the air. ‘Cheese and onion pie. I hoped it was on the menu. Come on, Judy. Let’s get you settled.’

‘I can walk, Pip. I’m just a bit tired.’ Judy acknowledged Eli with a nod and a smile as she limped past his table, and she made her way to the parlour, where she slumped down on a chair by the fire. She had hoped for a few minutes on her own but Molly burst into the room.

‘Well? Did he propose?’

‘Don’t be silly. He just took me out for a breath of fresh air.’

Molly raised her eyebrows. ‘Really? If you think that you’re an innocent, Judy Begg. It’s been obvious from the start that Rob Dorning only has eyes for you. How can you be so stupid?’