‘Yes,’ he smiled, shaking his head, ‘she’s the queen of that.’

Now her name had received a more positive response, I wished it hadn’t, especially given what it was associated with.

‘Although we’ll have to be careful because the berries are poisonous,’ I swiftly said. ‘We’ll have to keep it out of Bandit’s reach.’

‘That’s a good point,’ frowned Ned.

‘Perhaps I’ll order some artificial stuff online,’ I suggested. ‘I suppose we could fake it, couldn’t we? It’s not as if the stuff in here needs to be authentic because we won’t be putting it to its ancient Greek purpose.’

‘Ancient Greek purpose?’ Ned queried.

‘Yes,’ I said, ‘it was used during Saturnalia and later in wedding ceremonies because of its associations with fertility. It’s been used for reconciliation purposes too.’

‘Well,’ grinned Ned. ‘You never know…’

‘It must be time for a drink,’ I interrupted. ‘Do you fancy a hot chocolate?’

With a mug of velvet smooth chocolate each, we toasted the lodge and Dad’s birthday. I thought about what he would have made of my choice of decorations. Privately, I knew he would have considered them too refined, but outwardly he would have been delighted I’d put them up. He would have been ecstatic to see me finally embracing Christmas at Wynter’s Trees.

‘Are you all right?’ Ned asked, as an unchecked tear rolled down my cheek.

‘Yes,’ I said, quickly wiping it away. ‘Thanks for this, Ned. It was kind of you to take today off and make it special.’

‘It isn’t finished yet,’ he reminded me. ‘You know how much I want to make your time here memorable so there’s something else too. And I do appreciate how much courage it has taken for you to finally come back.’

‘It has taken a lot,’ I agreed. ‘But I’m pleased I’ve done it.’

‘You are?’

‘Yes,’ I said, looking around again, ‘I am. I know I could have asked you to buy my shares in a letter, email or even on Zoom, but your dad was right. It has been important for me to come back. It’s been good getting to know you, Ned. There’s no doubt in my mind that you’re the right person to take over.’ I added, wanting to reiterate that even though I’d helped decorate the lodge this year I wouldn’t be around to do it again.

Ned didn’t look as pleased to hear my vote of confidence as I hoped he would.

‘He’s asked me not to say anything,’ he quietly said, his words explaining his expression, ‘but Dad’s still shocked by your decision.’

I’d guessed as much. I wondered if he was still feeling that way too.

‘I know,’ I nodded. ‘But I need to move on…’