Freddie’s eyes brightened. ‘If anyone wants a set of colouring pencils, they can have mine. I got a new set for the start of the school year, but I still have my old ones. We could share them.’

The generosity of children had always shocked Bella. It didn’t matter how much or how little they had, they were often the ones happiest to share. How did people forget that as adults? Bella pressed a hand to her lip, affection welling inside. ‘I promise if anyone does, I’ll let you know. That’s very, very kind of you, Freddie. I’m sure your dad would be proud to know he’s raised such a kind, caring little boy. But don’t worry, I won’t say anything about this. It’s our secret.’ She refolded the paper and put it in her pocket. ‘Now, why don’t you go and play and enjoy the rest of your Saturday? Do you think your dad might treat you to a hot chocolate to warm up?’

‘What’s that?’ asked Nick coming towards them. Bella stood.

‘I was just asking if Freddie was going to get a hot chocolate to warm up. I might have one too.’

‘That’s a good idea. I’ll get them. Whipped cream, Freddie?’

Freddie’s eyes lit up at the prospect. ‘Yes, please. And marshmallows?’

‘And marshmallows. What about you, Bella? Whipped cream and marshmallows?’

‘Oh, thanks.’ She hadn’t realised the invitation extended to her. ‘Is there any other way to have a hot chocolate?’

Nick laughed. ‘What about a Flake?’

‘Of course,’ they replied together, and Nick went off to get the hot chocolates from Annie’s Tearoom. Freddie and Bella followed along behind. When Nick returned, juggling three large takeaway cups, two of them overflowing with whipped cream and marshmallows, she couldn’t resist removing her gloves to pick the marshmallows off the top and scoop the whipped cream with her fingers. Freddie did the same.

‘You two are gross,’ Nick said, grinning as he sipped his plain and boring drink.

‘It’s the only way to drink a hot chocolate, isn’t it, Freddie?’ Freddie nodded and after a few moments he went off to play again, leaving Nick to hold his drink while it cooled.

Nick’s bright eyes watched her. She hadn’t realised before just how attractive they were. Actually, that was a bit of a fib. She and the other women in the village all knew how attractive Nick Cowley was but she’d never actively thought about it.

‘Bella?’

‘Yeah?’

He paused. ‘Are you sure you’re okay? It’s just that earlier I thought you were going to say more but …’