Chapter 21

I don't answer for a long moment, the silence settling awkward and heavy over us. Finally, I say, "I never said I hate it."

He chuckles then, but it's not as natural and relaxed as his earlier melodic laughs. But it eases a little of the tension, letting me breathe freely again.

"Not in so many words, but it's written all over your face. So why is that?"

"Why do you love Yorkshire so much?" I counter.

"You mean besides the fashion statement that is flat caps? The refreshing scent of animal shit in the air? And the fact we say grace over Yorkshire puddings and eat everything with gravy?" He asks, and his lips twitch in a smile when he sees my scowl. "Anyway, that's cheating. Answering my question with a question. But fine. I'll bite." He starts walking again, getting a couple of steps ahead before I realize and jog to catch up. "It's so friendly. I'm not in Oakton, as you know. I'm in Hawthorn. But village life is always the same. Everyone knows everyone. I bet y