‘He’s a good boy,’ Bella replied with a fondness he assumed she used for all the children. ‘One of the best I’d say, but don’t tell anyone I told you so. He’s clever, funny and kind.’

‘Ah, like me then,’ Nick teased.

‘Just like you.’ Now it was Bella’s turn to look like she hadn’t intended on saying anything. After looking away, she said, ‘Thanks again for fixing my gate. I’d been bugging Evan for ages to do it, but you know how bad he was at DIY.’

The mention of Evan dampened her eyes again and Nick changed the subject, not quite sure how to start a conversation about Freddie and Amias potentially bullying him. Amias didn’t seem to be targeting anyone else except with some mild teasing. He was definitely treating Freddie differently, physically. Thinking of it sent that protective urge up his spine and he willed himself to calm down.

Bella though seemed to have read his mind, or perhaps it was just her talking about the one thing they had in common. ‘Freddie’s been doing really well with his lines for the Christmas play.’ Her cheeks began to colour slightly. ‘I was going to pop in last night and let you know.’

‘You were?’ The idea filled his chest with a warmth at odds with the cold weather he stood in.

‘Mrs Brody was very impressed.’

‘Ah, Mrs Brody. Is she still as terrifying as ever?’

Bella laughed. ‘Sometimes, but she’s very happy with Freddie so I don’t think he needs to worry.’

Nick knew this was his chance to say something about Amias, but he hesitated. He didn’t want to ruin this day for Bella by talking about something so serious, and though he knew Miss Radcliffe volunteered here too, he valued Bella’s opinion and knew she’d be able to give him good advice. It wasn’t that he didn’t like or trust Miss Radcliffe, he just felt safer talking to Bella as he’d known her for longer. After clearing his throat, he began.

‘Umm, Bella, can I just talk to you about Freddie for a minute?’