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mother-in-law’s criticisms. ‘How’s life in your new home?’
    ‘Different to what I’ve been used to, but I’m settling in nicely, thank you. Once Bryan finishes off a couple more little jobs I’ll be really organized. Ready to devote my time to helping Patsy with the new addition.’
    Helen slanted a look at Nanette.
    ‘And you? Your memory back to normal now?’ she asked briskly. ‘I saw a picture in one of the Sunday papers recently of – oh what’s his name? Your ex fiancé anyway. Had a blonde on his arm. Said something about them getting married. Zachary – that’s his name.’
    ‘I saw that photo too,’ Nanette said quietly. ‘As for my memory, I still have no recollection of certain things people tell me happened – maybe it’s for the best,’ she added, forcing a smile in Helen’s direction. ‘If you’ll excuse me I’ll just go check on the twins.’
    Leaving the kitchen, Nanette mouthed an apologetic, ‘Sorry – I’ll see you later’, at Patsy before closing the kitchen door behind her.
    After a slightly strained lunch, Nanette, Patsy and the twins went for their planned walk down to the lake at the far end of the farm.
    ‘I’m sorry Helen assumed your memory had returned to normal,’ Patsy said quietly. ‘And mentioned you-know-who.I know you find both difficult to cope with.’
    Nanette shook her head wearily. ‘Don’t worry. I wish my memory of that afternoon would return, but I’m beginning to believe it never will now. As for Zac, well, I can’t hide from news about him for ever.’
    Opening a heavy farm gate so that Patsy didn’t have to climb over as the twins had done, Nanette said to her sister, ‘Actually I think Helen’s comments have helped me make up my mind. I can’t run from the past for ever, so’ – she took a deep breath – ‘I’m going to tell Vanessa yes I will go to Monaco. At least Mathieu will be around if there are any problems with the twins and he’ll be a friend for me too.’
    Nanette could feel the wind tearing at her face as she frantically skied faster and faster down the mountainside. Adrenalin flowed through her veins as she heard the noise of the avalanche behind her gathering speed, devouring everything in its way. Her lungs forced a terror-stricken scream into the air. She couldn’t die like this, she…!
    ‘Nanette, Nanette, wake up. You’re having one of your nightmares,’ Patsy shook her gently.
    A shudder went through Nanette’s body as she came to.
    ‘Here, have a sip.’ Patsy handed her a glass of water. ‘What was it this time? Another monster breaking into the house? An earthquake?’
    Nanette shook her head. ‘No. I was caught up in an avalanche.’ She took a sip of the water as Patsy regarded her thoughtfully.
    ‘It’s been ages since you’ve had a nightmare.’
    Nanette nodded. ‘I know. I was hoping they’d finallyfinished,’ she said, her body still racked with shakes. ‘The therapist was saying only last week that it was a good sign I’d gone for so long without one. Wonder what interpretation she’ll put on tonight’s little episode?’ Nanette added through chattering teeth.
    ‘The stress of planning the wedding? Or maybe the thought of returning to Monaco?’ Patsy said, giving her sister a concerned glance. ‘Are you cold? Shall I get you a hot water bottle?’
    ‘No, thanks. I’ll snuggle back under the duvet in a moment and I’ll soon warm up,’ and Nanette smiled at her sister. ‘You go back to bed. Remember your condition. Don’t want you with dark circles under your eyes tomorrow, or rather today. She glanced at the bedside clock. ‘I’m sorry I woke you.’
    ‘If you’re sure you’re OK,’ Patsy said. ‘I could stay with you for a bit?’
    ‘I’m fine. Go back to bed,’ Nanette ordered. ‘But leave the light on please.’
    Patsy glanced anxiously at her before leaving and closing the door.
    Once she was alone, Nanette sat on the edge of the bed and took some deep breaths,