Page 50 of Sunrise over Strawberry Hill Farm

She found that she was smiling at him. ‘I’m sure they’ll be able to figure that out,’ she replied. She sniffed the air appreciatively as she realised that Grams had left a delicious chicken pie in the oven for them before heading out to her dance class. ‘How about some wine with dinner?’

Nico nodded. ‘I think I need one.’ He gave her a sheepish smile. ‘I didn’t think I’d be this nervous. But if the trial run doesn’t go well…’ His voice trailed off as Flora poured them both a glass of wine.

‘Here,’ she said, handing him one of the glasses.

‘Thanks,’ he replied, taking a large sip before sinking down at the kitchen table. ‘So I have some good news. We’ve had our very first booking for the bank holiday weekend. And it’s a family booking, meaning that four of the tents are already booked.’

‘They are?’ said Flora, shocked.

Nico nodded. ‘I know, right? I mean, it helps that it’s half-term week so some people are off school and work, but I had no idea that it would be this popular so early on.’

‘Then let’s hope our trial run tonight is successful,’ said Flora, now feeling even more nervous.

But, as it turned out, there was no need.

The following morning after breakfast, Katy and Ryan were beaming from ear to ear when Flora and Nico went to check on them.

‘How did you sleep?’ asked Flora.

Katy and Ryan exchanged a look and Flora smiled to herself. ‘Let me rephrase that question,’ she said. ‘Was the bed comfortable?’

‘It’s lovely,’ Katy told her. ‘Far more luxurious than I was expecting. The lighting was just right. We were toasty warm in bed. And the kettle was very welcome this morning. Those vintage teacups and teapot are a beautiful touch.’

‘Plus the view from the deck last night with our dinner was incredible,’ added Ryan.

Katy nodded. ‘It really was.’

‘Anything that we can change or add?’ asked Nico.

Katy sat on the step and pulled on a pink wellington boot. ‘I guess it was just the question of breakfast,’ she finally said.

Ryan nodded in agreement. ‘That’s right. I mean, we’re heading home now to our apartment and, of course, we’d be more than happy if people wandered over to grab a pastry from our shop. But we don’t open until nine o’clock so what if there are any early risers?’

Nico tapped his chin in thought. ‘You know, I camped in France a long time ago and each morning the local boulangerie would drive around the campsite in a little van with freshly made baguettes and croissants.’

‘Sounds great,’ said Ryan. ‘Maybe between us, we could provide something the night before or even for early in the morning?’

‘So everyone benefits,’ said Nico.

‘Absolutely,’ replied Ryan with a grin.

‘I can’t believe I actually enjoyed camping,’ said Katy, reaching out for her other wellington boot. But just as she was about to put her foot inside, something leapt out and she dropped the boot with a loud scream. ‘It’s a frog!’ she shouted, looking absolutely terrified.

Flora rolled her eyes. ‘It’s a toad,’ she replied. ‘Nothing to be frightened of!’

‘Ha! That’s easy for you to say,’ said Katy, rushing to stand behind Ryan.

It turned out that Katy still had a way to go before she completely embraced the countryside, thought Flora, laughing.

30

As Flora headed back to the farmhouse, she heard excited voices in the kitchen and went in to find Grams chatting and laughing with Eddie.

‘Good morning!’ said Grams, who was standing at the Aga. ‘Who’s for eggs?’

‘Good morning to both of you as well,’ said Flora. ‘And yes please.’

‘Morning,’ replied Eddie. ‘Thanks, Helen. I think I need the energy today.’