‘George, let’s stop for a drink before you take me home. I can’t say goodbye to you without making sure you are all right.’

He turned his troubled face to her. ‘I’d like that.’

They pulled in to the small car park of the Golden Fleece – a public house her dad didn’t go to, so there was no fear of bumping into him.

George helped her out of the car and took her hand. Together they walked inside. Marion knew something between them had shifted with his revelation. To share his tragic story with her meant he trusted her. And to hold his hand and walk into this place for all to see made her feel a little giddy.

He settled her into a cosy table by the fire and she watched him as he walked to the bar and ordered. Although not a tall man, he walked with confidence and ease. As he chatted to the barman, he turned to look at her and smiled. Was this what it felt like to fall in love?

George brought their drinks over and sat close to her on the small banquette. ‘To us.’ He raised his glass.

‘To us.’ She was shocked by George’s story and angry that his wife could have put so much strain on her marriage. She hadn’t been well, so that wasn’t her fault, but nonetheless, how could anyone be so awful to dear George? Fresh from the war and with uncaring parents.

He took her free hand again. ‘I really am so sorry for pouring my woes out to you.’

‘We are friends, aren’t we?’

‘I would like to hope we are.’ He took another mouthful of his whisky. ‘What must you think of me? Forty-three years old, divorced and with no family. I’m not much of a catch, am I?’

Marion looked into his eyes, then rested her forehead on his shoulder. Yes, she knew she was falling in love.

Chapter Sixteen

145 Piccadilly, 22^nd January 1936

‘Crawfie!’ The little Princesses had been put to bed, but as soon as she opened their door they leapt out and ran to her.

‘What are you two little monkeys awake for?’ she whispered. ‘Alah and Bobo are next door – they’ll be cross with me for waking you up.’

‘Then why did you?’ asked Lilibet staunchly.

Marion put her arms round both girls, relieved to see them. ‘I have missed you scallywags.’

‘And we have missed you!’ said Margaret, gripping Marion’s legs tightly.

‘Let’s sit down before we all fall into a heap, shall we?’

She had arrived at 145 less than ten minutes ago and Ainslie had handed her a note from the Duchess. It read: Don’t let all this depress Lilibet and Margaret more than is necessary, Crawfie. They are so young.

She sat in the armchair by the dying fire and held the hands of both sisters. ‘How are you?’ she asked gently.

Lilibet leant against the arm of Crawfie’s chair, looking forlorn.