The Riviera. Karen Aldous

her make-up freshly touched up.

      ‘Hi, you guys. Did you have a good day?’ she asked heading straight for Jack and holding out her arms, embracing her son. ‘Has this little man worn you out?’ she then said turning her attention to Thierry.

      Jack grinned. ‘He’ll tell you all about the whales and the bones, that’s for sure.’

      ‘Oh, great. Come. I’ll get you all a drink. I hope you’ve all worked up an appetite too. I’ve baked an awesomely large pie. I hope you like it?’

      Cal shot a glance at Lizzie. ‘Sounds amazing but we didn’t have lunch until late. A few hours yet perhaps.’

      ‘It does smell lovely though,’ Lizzie assured her, watching Kelly’s face twitch.

      ‘I’ll keep it on low for now. I’m sure it won’t spoil,’ she said heading for the kitchen.

      Once in the house, Lizzie settled down on the floor at the coffee table with Thierry taking out his pad and pens from his bag. She drew him some whales and fishes which he tried to copy. Cal sat across from them on the sofa resting his socked feet on the footstool, and burrowing his head against a cushion. He winked at her as he watched them both and within minutes, Lizzie smiled as his eyes began to drop. She guessed all the fresh air had tired him out. And he’d had a tiring week.

      Thierry then snuggled up to her and, stroking his hair, Lizzie’s eyes sank wearily into a contented slumber.

      Just moments later, Kelly breezed in carrying a tray piled with pastries. ‘I thought I’d bake some of your favourites, Cal. I just know you won’t be able to resist one of these bad boys; cinnamon whirls with fresh cream.’

      At once, eyes pinged on Kelly.

      ‘I’d love one but I’m saving my appetite for chicken pie. After dinner perhaps,’ Cal told her as his eyelids rolled back shut.

      Lizzie managed a smile. ‘I think the fresh air has knocked us all out.’ And her lids fell under the weight of tiredness.