Page 78 of The Love Position

‘And you are friends with Eveline, who’s famous for her bacon sandwiches.’

Isaac let out a happy sigh. ‘They’re the best. I didn’t think they could get any more sublime, but then Eveline started using sourdough bread made by Libby, Henry Foxbrooke’s girlfriend, and now they’re…’ He shook his head. ‘I try not to become too attached to things that elicit extreme emotion, whether positive or negative, but her sandwiches are an exception to that rule.’

Even though her head still ached, Sophia’s cheeks hurt more from how much she’d been smiling. Conversation with Isaac was effortless, and she couldn’t remember the last time she’d felt so free.

Whether it was the warm air and sunshine, the fresh breeze coming off the ocean, the fact she was now well-fed and far away from Foxbrooke, or the man she was hanging out with, Sophia was utterly content.

Isaac seemed happy, too. Anyone strolling past them would have presumed they were a couple on holiday. Sophia felt beautiful in her dress, and knowing what was underneath it gave her a confidence she’d never experienced before. She was wearing gorgeous clothes, in a picture-perfect location, and spending time with a man who should have been on the cover of a magazine.

‘I spoke to Swami Saraswati earlier,’ Isaac began.

Worry spiked in Sophia’s guts. ‘Is everything okay? The money?’

‘It’s all fine. We were discussing your accommodation. There’s no way you’ll be able to get up and down those stairs safely with the crutches.’

‘I can barely get up and down without crutches.’ Sophia pulled a face. ‘I’ve lost count of the times I’ve slipped.’

Isaac frowned. ‘They’re too steep and the tread’s too narrow. I’ve already spoken to her about getting them replaced, but it won’t be in the next couple of hours, so we’ve arranged for you to move to a ground floor room.’

‘Oh. Is it expensive?’

‘There’s no cost. It’s usually used for visiting speakers, or high-level members of the organisation, and it’s free at the moment.’

‘Is she sure?’

‘Absolutely. She can come across as a little, er… severe, but she’s a wonderful person. And, to be perfectly frank, there’s always the worry you’ll sue.’

‘Sue? For what?’

Isaac smiled. ‘I know we Brits aren’t particularly litigious, but you do have a strong case.’

Holding up a hand, he ticked off each point in turn. ‘Inadequate lighting. Steps not marked and no anti-slip tape on them. Incredibly sharp statue not secured and right next to a public walkway. Overcrowding of a public space.’ He sighed. ‘And you could easily argue that you’ve been deprived of sleep that has affected your awareness and mobility.’

‘Oh.’

‘So, we’re sorting you a room with easy access for the rest of your stay and covering all medical and other expenses. I’ll also grab you another uniform from the shop, and no, you won’t have to pay for it.’

‘Thank you. I appreciate this so much. Would you be able to find Jessica for me when we get back? She can bring my things down from the dorm.’

‘Will do. She reminds me of Estelle.’

‘Me too! Can you imagine the two of them in the same room?’

Isaac laughed. ‘It would be very loud and very funny.’

Sophia buzzed with happiness, but she knew they couldn’t put off returning to the ashram forever.

‘Isaac…’

‘Yes, lo—yes?’

She tried to ignore what he’d almost said, even as her heart jumped. ‘Before we take the boat back, can we find a supermarket?’

‘Sure. Is there anything in particular you need?’

Sophia grinned. ‘There is…’

‘Lemons!’ Jessica screeched. ‘No way!’

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