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‘Just because I’m a moaner?—’

‘That’s something you aren’t. After living at Overlay for years, I can see that it’s been difficult for you to adjust.’

‘Overlay House was so much bigger, that’s all. A great deal scruffier, but bigger!’

They walked on, Jack noticing that in the short time they’d been away, the hedgerows had grown a little dustier, the foxgloves taller and the buttercups spread more widely. It wasn’t until he pushed open the cottage gate and they were walking up its red brick path, that Flora spoke again.

‘If wewereto make a move,’ she said carefully, ‘what would happen to the cottage? I couldn’t bear to think of it left alone and unloved.’

He tried not to look surprised. Was this moment a turning point for them both? ‘There are always tenants to be had,’ he said, trying to sound detached.

‘They would be people we don’t know. Strangers. I’d hate that. And so would the cottage.’

‘They might not be.’ He opened the front door and stood back for her to pass. ‘I can think of two people who might want to rent here and they’re hardly strangers.’

‘Really?’ She seemed surprised at the idea.

‘Hector and Rose? They’re getting married this autumn and they’ll need somewhere to live. Rose can’t share his room at the Priory and Mrs Waterford is unlikely to welcome Hector at Larkspur Cottage.’

Flora had begun to walk to the kitchen but, at this, she came to an abrupt stop, whirling around to look directly into his eyes. ‘Youhavebeen thinking about the schoolhouse, haven’t you?’ she demanded. ‘Seriously thinking about it.’

‘It’s just an idea, like I said.’

‘Jack!’

‘OK, I’ve been thinking about it, ever since I met Finch and heard what he was planning. But I know how precious the cottage is to you, and that’s where we’ll stay for as long as you want.’

‘Is that the truth?’

‘It is.’ He put his arms around her.

‘We have a pact?’

‘We have a pact,’ he agreed. ‘And honestly, does it matter that much where we live, as long as we’re together? Now, stop worrying and give me a kiss.’

For once, Flora did as she was told. Then did it again.

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