Rita bit her lip and nodded. ‘I haven’t accepted yet, because I wanted to talk to you first,’ she said softly.

Jack was aware of the other people in the tearoom getting an earful, so stood up and drew Rita to her feet. ‘Can I leave the kitbag and case here for a bit?’ he asked the waitress.

‘Leave them in the corner, but don’t forget, we close at one for the weekend.’

Jack thanked her and dumped the kitbag and suitcase out of the way, then left a tip on the table and hustled Rita outside. ‘Come on, love. Let’s find a private corner so we can talk properly.’

They found a sheltered spot on a bench at the very western end of the promenade, and after Jack’s initial shock at the sight of the devastation caused by the V-2 on Havelock Road, he turned his full attention back to his daughter.

‘Nothing is ever really set in stone, Rita,’ he began. ‘We fought this war so youngsters like you could have a better future and the freedom to follow your dreams. So don’t ever feel you’ll disappoint me or let me down if your plans don’t fit in with mine.’

She remained silent and he took her hand. ‘But what does worry me is the fact you didn’t write and tell me about Peter’s proposal, and the implications of it that are clearly worrying you. If you’re that unsure, then perhaps it would be best not to rush into anything.’

‘Oh, but I am sure. Really sure,’ she protested. ‘I just wanted to wait until I could speak to you face-to-face. ‘I knew how keen you were on us setting up the workshop together, but Pete’s proposal means I have a terrible choice to make.’ She fell silent for a moment, chewing her lip. ‘I love you both, but the thought of going all the way to Australia and never seeing you or Peggy or Ron again …’

She tailed off and stared out at the sea which was sparkling with sun diamonds. ‘I’m so sorry to put all this on you before you’ve had time to get used to being home. But Pete did suggest something which could solve everything, and I’d really appreciate it if you’d give it some serious thought.’

Jack determinedly buried his disappointment, and although he had a fair idea of what was coming, asked anyway, ‘Oh, yes, and what’s that?’

‘You come to Australia with us,’ she said eagerly. ‘There’s lots and lots of work for a qualified mechanic like you, and Pete says you could be set up like a tall poppy in no time.’