‘He brings his own padding,’ David told me with a wink and together we left the office laughing.

Nick had been right. Since I’d dragged Ned into the office, lots of people had arrived and were standing in a noisy group, waiting for someone to step up and officially open proceedings. I was just beginning to panic that person would have to be me, when Ned jumped into the back of the Chevy and the crowd fell quiet. David stood beside me and I ran a hand over Bandit’s fur to settle the flutter of nerves which had bubbled up in anticipation of what Ned was going to say.

‘Good evening,’ he said, smiling broadly and looking much happier than he had just a few minutes before, ‘and welcome to the launch of the first ever Wynter’s Trees festive shopping night.’

Everyone cheered and I could see the beach hut crew all eagerly waiting outside the huts to welcome the visitors and make some sales. Wren gave me a thumbs up and I waved back.

‘As you know,’ Ned continued, ‘the beach huts were originally destined for Wynmouth but we think they look right at home here, and we hope you do too.’

This was met with more cheers and some enthusiastic clapping.

‘By we of course,’ Ned carried on, ‘I mean David, my wonderful dad who has been running this place for the last four years and none other than Liza Wynter herself, who we are thrilled to have here with us tonight.’

More clapping followed and Ned looked at me and grinned. I wondered if he thought the crowd’s enthusiastic response to my presence might have some impact on my decision to sell. Blushing as a few curious glances came my way, I knew it wouldn’t.

‘This is going to be my dad’s last Christmas at the farm,’ Ned then carried on, his voice catching as he looked fondly at his father, ‘and I’m determined to make it a good one. Wynter’s Trees is a truly magical place and even though we have made a few changes, I want you all to know that Nicholas Wynter’s legacy and his love for Wynmouth and the surrounding countryside is still at the heart of everything we do.’

‘Hear! Hear!’ shouted David, making me jump.

As everyone clapped again, I felt Bandit lean heavily into my legs, as if he knew I needed some extra support.

‘I’m delighted to have Liza’s blessing for this exciting new venture,’ said Ned, smiling down at me again, ‘and I would dearly love to invite her up here to say a few words.’

He laughed as I returned his look with what must have been one of sheer terror.

‘However,’ he said, ‘I don’t think she would ever forgive me so, without further ado, I declare the evening, open!’