For the most part, the plantation site was flat, but there was a slightly raised mound, close to the furthest boundary, which Dad said was the best spot for stargazing. When Bandit and I reached it, I could see there was nothing growing there and wondered if it would be possible to plant the tree either atop or next to it.

It felt like the ideal tribute to mark the spot where Dad and I used to lay out, wrapped in layers and with a Thermos apiece as the constellations shifted and shone. I swallowed away the lump in my throat and called Bandit to heel. I didn’t often allow myself to think too deeply about any of the few things I had enjoyed about living at Wynter’s and now, just as I was poised to part with the place for good, was hardly the time to start letting them back in.

My mobile vibrated in my pocket as Bandit and I walked along and I pulled it out, surprised to see a message from my former colleague, Caitlin. We had started our teaching careers at the same time in the school where I had eventually taken on a more nurturing role.

Caitlin taught English and her job hadn’t fallen prey to the funding cuts like mine. With a position like the one I’d taken, I’d always known redundancy was a risk and after the death knell sounded, I wouldn’t go as far as to say I felt bitter, but I hadn’t kept in touch with her as regularly as I could have done.

Hey Liza. Just a quick message to see how you’re getting on. I called round to the flat last night but you weren’t in.

I felt bad for not letting her know I had come to Wynter’s Trees for a few weeks.

I don’t know if you’re interested, but there’s talk of an art-based support position opening up at the new academy. Have you heard about it? I don’t know any details but can find out if you’re keen. Let me know! School is hell btw, but then it always is in the run up to Christmas.

Just a few weeks ago, I would have jumped at the opportunity, but not now. Caitlin was right, the few weeks leading up to Christmas were hell and the thought of going back into a school to help a few students, when my own business could be geared up to assist potentially dozens, was not an appealing thought.