‘Oh, you know, fine at the minute though that could change in the blink of an eye in this job, as you’re well aware. Still, we have to look on the bright side, don’t we? How are you? I hear you’re very highly regarded here.’

‘That’s nice and I’m fine thanks.’ It was hard to be rude to him when he was smiling at her like that.

Once she’d been served, he carried her tray to a table for her and without waiting to be asked he sat down to join her with his mug of tea.

‘So, you’re off out this afternoon then?’ she asked rather unnecessarily as she pushed the soggy cabbage about her plate with her fork. It really did look very unappetising.

‘Yes, Berlin today. I’m flying one of the Hurricanes for a change.’

Livvy knew that Hurricanes were heavier and not quite as nippy as the Spitfires, which meant that should they become involved in a dogfight, Giles could be at a much higher risk.

‘Then I wish you a safe, successful journey,’ she muttered.

He shrugged. ‘It should be all right. It will be dark by the time we get there and hopefully we can be in and out without the Luftwaffe even knowing.’

They stared at each other for a moment, each aware of the risk the pilots took every time they took off. Then hoping to lighten the atmosphere he asked, ‘Heard anything from home lately? Dad told me the army took the horses some time ago and I was gutted. They only left the two old nags, apparently, which is hardly surprising. They’re not really fit for much but the knacker’s yard.’

‘Ah well, at least the little ones have still got them to ride round on,’ Livvy answered sympathetically. Giles might be an arrogant so-and-so, but she was well aware of how much he had loved the horses.

‘Treetops seems an awful long way away now, doesn’t it?’ he said wistfully, and she could only nod in agreement.

After a pause, he asked, ‘When is your next day off?

Surprised at the change of subject she blinked. ‘Saturday as it happens. Why do you ask?’

‘You’ve been here longer than me and I thought you might show me something of the place. Where is the nearest civilisation to here anyway?’

‘Lincoln.’ She grinned. ‘Me and some of the girls usually get a lift in one of the jeeps and find a pub where we can have a sing-song. Most of the theatres are closed so there isn’t a lot else to do. You’re quite welcome to join us, if you like.’

He smiled but then glancing at the wall clock he hurriedly drained his mug and stood up. ‘Right, I’d best be off. Hopefully I’ll see you sometime tomorrow.’

She nodded and as he turned to leave, she suddenly said, ‘Giles …’