‘Where are they going then?’ the driver asked Ned.

‘Over there,’ he pointed. ‘The ground’s all prepared so it should be quick to lift them off and get them set in position.’

‘Ned,’ I said, tugging at his sleeve to get his attention. ‘Why exactly are you taking delivery of four beach huts?’

‘They’re for the new Wynter’s shopping experience,’ he said, pulling me out of the way and moving to guide the first hut into place. ‘I know Dad’s description was a bit vague, but the gist of it is, we’re renting these to local crafters so they can sell direct to the public. Every single one has been booked and we’re going to have extra food and drink in the barn to further compliment the venture too.’

‘But the farm is only open for a few weeks every year, surely it won’t be worth it.’

Ned shook his head. ‘Not anymore,’ he said. ‘We’re opening at certain times throughout the autumn too and properly from the middle of November now. People will be able to walk among the trees and do some Christmas shopping while they’re here. The huts were supposed to be set up in Wynmouth but after a couple of problems, I suggested we do it here, where the site is more secure and there’s already a festive vibe. Everyone jumped at the chance.’

‘But Wynter’s is about renting trees,’ I reminded him, ‘and visiting Santa, not selling Christmas tat.’

He looked shocked. ‘The people coming here to sell are all small bespoke designers with fledgling businesses,’ he said crossly. ‘They operate along the same lines as we run this place. Quality first. You’ll see soon enough. Had you read all the emails, you’d already know.’

I opened my mouth to object, but couldn’t because he was right. It wasn’t his fault that I hadn’t engaged in any of what had been going on. I might own the bigger share in the business, but if I could pull my plan off soon none of it would be anything to do with me. I needed to keep Ned onside, not provoke and piss him off.

‘Sorry,’ I said.

‘It’s fine,’ he said, running his hands through his hair, before he moved to the spot prepared for the second hut. ‘Well,’ he added, ‘not really fine, but understandable. Being back here can’t be easy for you.’

‘It isn’t,’ I admitted.

‘You’re bound to feel a bit mixed up.’

‘I do.’ I swallowed.

‘I get that.’ He nodded.

‘Are you always so nice?’ I demanded, but found myself beginning to smile.

‘Yes,’ he grinned. ‘Of course. I’m the ultimate good guy.’

Watching the way his eyes crinkled as he smiled and the tenderness behind his words, I could well believe that.

Chapter 4