Page 65 of The Cottage at Brambleton Hall

‘Only if I get caught.’

‘That’s exactly the sort of stupid answer I expect from you.’

Jimmy chuckled and tipped his head back against the canvas.

Tourists drifted past with maps and ice creams, while locals weaved around them with the weary patience of people who’d lived in Brambleton all their lives. Valerie watched everyone. Habit more than interest. Mabel with a clipboard, stopping every second person demanding they sign her petition to ban the use of pesticides on parish owned land. Victor, the young vicar, pinning a notice outside the village hall.

She spotted Sammy. The girl was walking beside Nate. Nate said something that made Sammy laugh – head tipped back, a full-throated laugh.

Jimmy noticed them. ‘Well now,’ he said lazily. ‘Who’s that with Nate?’

Valerie took a slow sip of cider. ‘That’s the new girl up at the Hall.’

‘Can’t blame him, mind. She’s pretty.’

‘Too pretty for the likes of you, so don’t start.’

‘I only said she was attractive.’

‘And I know that tone.’

Jimmy gave her an innocent look that would convince nobody.

They watched Sammy and Nate pause outside Prosecco & Prose. Nate leaned closer to her as he spoke.

Jimmy snorted. ‘Reckon there’s something going on there?’

‘No.’

‘Not even a little?’

Valerie’s mouth tightened. ‘Nate knows better than to bring trouble onto the estate.’

Jimmy raised an eyebrow. ‘You calling her trouble?’

‘I’m calling her temporary.’

Sammy laughed again at something Nate said, oblivious to the conversation behind her.

Valerie’s eyes narrowed as she watched her. Too eager. Trying to fit in. People like that either left quickly or caused problems before they did.

Jimmy took another drink. ‘You don’t like her much.’

‘I don’t like disruption.’ She glanced at him sharply. ‘And you’ll stick to local girls, thanks all the same.’

Jimmy barked out a laugh. ‘You think I’m after her?’

‘I think you’re an idiot half the time.’

‘Only half?’

Valerie pointed a finger at him. ‘You want a decent life, James Morgan, you stop skulking round woods at night and find some proper work.’

‘You sound like my probation officer.’

‘I sound like the only person bothering to keep you out of prison.’ That quietened him a little. Valerie softened. ‘You’re not bad,’ she muttered. ‘You just make bad choices.’

Jimmy looked away toward the street. ‘Bit late for improvement, isn’t it?’