‘That shocks you, doesn’t it? It shocked Paige too.’ As soon as he mentioned her name Bella dropped her eyes to the ground and he kicked himself. Literally. When no one was looking he bashed one foot against the other. What idiot brings up their ex-wife? Well, wife because he was technically still married. He hadn’t got around to sorting out divorce papers because it was something he felt he should tell her in person. Only he didn’t know where exactly she was. His anger erupted again, and he pushed it down, eager to enjoy the night. ‘Let’s go and stand with your folks.’

They ambled over and Nick didn’t fail to notice the grin Caro gave Bella. ‘Hi, Mr and Mrs Moore. Caro, Luke. You guys okay?’

‘Nick,’ Mungo said slapping his hand on his shoulder and giving it a squeeze. ‘And young Freddie. How are you, young man?’

‘Fine, thanks.’

‘No, you’re not,’ announced Cynthia, placing her hands on her hips. ‘You’ve got nothing to eat or drink. Come on, let’s find you something yummy. Annie’s Tearoom is open just down the lane. Is it all right if I take him to get a hot chocolate and a cookie, Nick?’

‘Yeah, sure,’ he replied, a little surprised at the warm welcome, though knowing the Moores he shouldn’t have been. ‘Here let me give you some money.’

‘Nonsense. No, no, no.’ Cynthia waved one hand at him while the other was held out to Freddie. Without hesitation Freddie trotted off with Cynthia, grinning at the prospect of treats.

Mungo chuckled. ‘I think our grandchild is going to be in trouble or we will be when Caro keeps telling us off for spoiling them.’

‘That’s what grandparents are for, isn’t it?’

He and Mungo talked about gardening and work while Bella and Caro caught up. Being with Bella’s family felt so natural, and he wasn’t the least bit embarrassed that every one of the Moore family were in some kind of Christmassy outfit. A Santa hat adorned Mungo’s head while Cynthia wore a red bobble hat complete with antlers he suspected she’d knitted herself.

Bella finished her conversation with Caro and stood by his side. ‘I see Mum’s already kidnapped Freddie. I think she’s always been a little disappointed I hadn’t provided any grandchildren by now.’

‘I can’t imagine your parents would ever be disappointed in you, Bella. You’re—’ He felt suddenly self-conscious over the compliments he wanted to shower on her. ‘You’re—’

Seeing his evident humiliation, Bella carried on, though the look in her eye told him she knew he was hoping to say something special. ‘Poor Freddie, I hope he’s okay. Mum can be a little intimidating in her Christmas madness.’