‘He’s such a big heart,’ she told Joyce as she watched Bernie taking some of the little children for a ride on Goliath’s back. ‘Those kids must have thought their world had come to an end, but Bernie soon showed them that life goes on.’ She glanced at Joyce. ‘He’s going to make some woman a terrific husband and he’ll be the best father.’

‘Oh?’ said Joyce. ‘Does that mean you’re beginning to have more than a physical attraction towards him?’

Roz sighed heavily. ‘I should, because I’d be a fool not to, but there’s something missing, although I don’t know what.’

Joyce smiled kindly. ‘There’s nothing missing, luvvy. Your heart belongs to someone else, simple as that.’

‘I do think a lot of him though,’ said Roz. ‘He’s such a dear, kind man, and I know that most women would think me a fool to turn him down.’

‘They’re not you, and it’s you what counts, so if it’s not meant to be, then it’s not.’ Joyce spied some people wandering into the yard, looking rather lost. ‘Come on, let’s see to this lot.’

Joyce and Roz’s morning tasks now included taking the names and old addresses of the people who had found their way to the farm.

The bombings had had a sobering effect on Roz. Even though Felix was miles away from Liverpool she had developed a sense of unrest, and a strong desire to be with him. She knew that she always felt this way when she thought Felix was in danger, but this time it was far stronger – so much so that she had approached Helen and Arthur to ask if she could be excused for a short weekend break so that she might visit him. Bernie had been present when she had put her request in, and it was clear to see how disappointed he was. Roz had felt a real heel, almost as if she was betraying him, but she knew this was something she had to do.

Bernie caught up with her outside.

‘Are you sure it’s a good idea to go and see him when we’ve been through such a traumatic event? Surely that will only cloud your judgement?’

Roz levelled with him. ‘All I know is I won’t rest until I’ve seen him.’ She shrugged helplessly. ‘I know it’s silly, because I know he’s alright, but it’s almost like a magnet drawing me to him. I shan’t be able to think straight unless I see him for myself.’

Even though every part of him wanted to try and stop her from leaving, Bernie stood to one side so that Roz could get by. He looked after her as she entered the cottage. How typical was it that the only woman who had been of interest to him was in love with another man? He could try and kid himself that this wasn’t the case, but deep down he felt sure that as soon as Roz saw Felix she would realise her true feelings. He sighed heavily. What could he do? Not a damned thing.