Laurel considered that. ‘Maybe some people would. We’re all different. Alex and I went down the treatment route, which some people don’t; but didn’t go for adoption, which some people do. Maybe we should have given up sooner because we stopped enjoying trying to make a baby and every process either didn’t take or I miscarried. I’m glad he’s met a nice woman now, Vonnie. Maybe she, or someone who comes after, might be able to give him babies.’ She sipped. ‘I hope I’ll be big-hearted enough to be glad for him.’

Grady stretched and settled himself more comfortably. ‘In those circumstances, I think you will. For you to come out in the cold at a moment’s notice to listen to me shows you’re big-hearted. Thank you,’ he added. ‘My outrage filled my head so I couldn’t think right. Pippa was so calm when she put her proposition to me, so surprised but soothing when I got upset. I wondered if my feelings might be overreaction or ultra-sensitivity.’

Softly, she said, ‘I think you had salt rubbed into your wound and then were expected to be grateful.’ Pippa sounded incredibly self-serving. At The Angel Laurel had thought her pretty but if that had once been enough to work magic on Grady, that spell was well and truly broken now.

‘Anyway,’ Grady put in, with the air of someone in need of a new topic. ‘What changes do you see in Middledip?’

Laurel was glad he seemed ready to climb up from his emotional low. ‘Rea’s always kept me updated with the big news, like the village hall shutting for repairs, the shop changing hands and The Angel opening. The pub’s recently changed hands as well, Rea says. I remember going there with Mum for the occasional meal and it was run by a grumpy guy.’

A smile gleamed in his eyes. ‘Harrison Tubb, or “Tubb from the pub”. Nice guy, under the crusty exterior. He sold out to Ferdy and Elvis. They’ve got a load of Italian dishes on the menu now and I’m a particular fan of their carbonara. You haven’t been into The Three Fishes since you were a kid?’ He smiled when she shook her head. ‘Too many people to get “up in your business”?’

She laughed. ‘Rea wouldn’t go with me, would she?’

He was topping up their glasses and opening his mouth to reply when the doorknocker rapped once, then there was the sound of a key in the lock and the front door opened.

‘Grady?’ called Mac’s voice.

Laurel was taking the first sip of her freshened drink. She froze with the wine still in her mouth. Damn.

‘You’d better come in as you’re half in already,’ Grady called, mixed amusement and exasperation in his voice.