Harry took his seat at the table with some guests his mother had arranged to dine with him. They were all probably hoping for some dynamic conversation like they’d expect from Dominic or even Owen, but Harry just couldn’t feel the love for the place or its inaugural relaunch. The magic of Conmere had long since worn off. Not only since Elizabeth’s death, but long before that he had become disillusioned with his way of life here and with the whole Sinclair dynasty. It was one of the things that had put a strain on his marriage. Elizabeth had thought she was marrying into some rich family and it would be all Hollywood glamour, but the reality of it was far different. It was hard graft, business meetings, talking to suppliers, organising staff, looking at spreadsheets and bank balances – all pretty boring really. No wonder Elizabeth hadn’t been satisfied.

‘It’s so wonderful what you’ve done here,’ said one of his guests, breaking into his thoughts. ‘It’s as if it’s had new life breathed into it.’

‘That was the intention,’ said Harry. ‘I’m glad you like it. The introduction of the health spa and the thalassotherapy pool have been a major investment and we’re delighted with the results; we’re hoping to offer guests the whole package and deliver on all fronts.’

It was rehearsed patter Dominic had briefed him with ahead of the weekend. Harry did indeed think it was a great asset to Conmere but he was also aware the passion in him for the place had pretty much died out. He looked over to where his mother was sitting, talking enthusiastically to her table guests, and his heart filled with both pride and sadness. She was an amazing woman, so strong, so determined to make a success of the place. She wouldn’t let anything get in her way, least of all cancer. And with this new knowledge, his planned visit – SAS-style, in and out under the radar – wouldn’t hold out. He was going to have to stay now until … until the end.

He mentally went through the arrangements he’d have to make in France. He could manage some of the design work here at Conmere. He’d have to take a flying visit back to France to tie up a few loose ends but for the most part he could work away from the office. He’d have to do this all without making his mother suspicious, although he kind of felt she’d realise something was going on and soon make the connection that he knew about her illness. So be it, he thought; he would rather it was out in the open anyway. He hated the way his family kept secrets all the time.