Poppy’s Place in the Sun: A French Escape. Lorraine Wilson

Pete might change his mind and come, maybe…

      I know I ought to speak, but I feel so tightly wound I can’t locate the words.

      Thankfully Madame Dubois is far too accomplished a hostess to let the silence drag on.

      “That is decided then.” She smiles tightly. “Leo is, how do you say in English, a history buff. He will be a perfect guide for you.”

      “Um, okay, thanks.” I give the only response I can in the circumstances.

      I would’ve said yes anyway, and I don’t want to upset Madame Dubois. I’ve spied something heartbreakingly vulnerable beneath her iron demeanour. She hid it more quickly than Leo. The Dubois family have been so kind to me it would be rude to refuse.