‘Go away, Molly. You really are giving me a headache.’

‘Thank goodness I have Jack. At least he’s a sane person.’ Molly turned on her heel and swept out of the parlour.

Judy rose somewhat shakily to her feet and she went to look out of the window. Outside in the pale buttery sunshine she was just in time to see Rob tossing his valise into the chaise. He climbed nimbly onto the driver’s seat and sat next to Jack, who drove away cracking the whip above the horse’s head. Judy sank down on the nearest seat. What would she do if he did not return? She would have nobody to blame other than herself. But she had faced heartbreak when Jack left without a word. She had survived, although somehow it was different this time. Her ankle would heal, but what about her heart? Maybe the curse of Creek Manor lived on.

Chapter Twenty-Four

On a bright spring morning Judy asked Nate to saddle up Major, and she set off for Colneyhurst Hall. The air was crystal clear, the sky was cerulean blue and the saltings shimmered in the sunlight. Birds sang in the trees and clumps of primroses created pools of colour beneath the hedgerows. Catkins swayed and danced in the gentle breeze and the whole world seemed to be starting afresh. Major’s age was beginning to tell and although he was willing enough, he plodded along like an elderly gentleman, but Judy was quite happy to let him have his head. It was a relief to be away from the hustle and bustle of the inn, where trade was now brisk, thanks to the dozens of workmen from Creek Manor who came to enjoy Hilda’s excellent food and a pint or two of good ale.

When Judy finally arrived at Colneyhurst she was shown into the drawing room where Daisy greeted her with a delighted smile. ‘You’ll forgive me for not rising to greet you, Judy, but as you can see I’m a little top-heavy.’

Judy hurried to her side and kissed her on the cheek. ‘You look beautiful, as always. Are you keeping well?’

‘Yes, I’ve never felt better. I was quite unwell all the time I was carrying the boys, so I’m convinced that this child will be a girl and I’ll have a daughter at last. Ring the bell, there’s a dear, and we’ll have some refreshments.’

Judy tugged at the bell pull and went to sit in an armchair by the fire. ‘I hope that Molly didn’t cause you any bother by leaving so suddenly.’

‘No, of course not. She was a good nursery maid but I’m sure she’s happier being at home with you, and I gather she’s engaged to Jack. That’s a turn of events I wasn’t expecting. Are you all right with it?’

‘I’m very happy for them. They’re well suited and it would never have worked with Jack and myself.’

‘But there’s something troubling you.’ Daisy gave her a searching look. ‘Is there anything I can do to help?’