When he heard that Fliss had fled he was devastated. “That’s all my fault,” he said, his brown eyes filled with worry and regret. He ran a hand through his hair, leaving it more tousled than before. “Surely not! How could that be?” Harriet asked. “I must have intimidated her when I trespassed. It wasn’t my right. Madame Altier is away too, so what is happening to the business? Merde! I’ve caused so much trouble.” “Fliss has gone to sort out some stuff and have space. Don’t despair, Jean Chri.” Harriet tried to sound consoling, but she had little idea of what was going on. “I am looking after the guests for Madame Altier so there’s no problem there. She is due back from visiting her sister next week. I can manage until she returns. Between you and me, Jerome is looking after the dinner side of things for one or two guests, too.” She smiled. “That might set the cat among the pigeons but the village will get entertainment from the fallout.”
