Page 31 of Tangled Trust

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"Bloody hell, this place is ridiculous," Anna gasps as we drive into the estate. "It’s going to take me a while to get used to all this space."

"Crazy, isn’t it?"

"It’s like summer here. I started peeling off layers of clothing as soon as we disembarked. You’re one spoiled cow, Miss Ella," Anna grins.

"Don’t I know it? Come on. Let’s get you settled in."

I take Anna to the guest cottage. Cottage isn’t really the right word, as it’s large enough to house a small family. I’ve decided to share the cottage with her for the time she’s here, so I’m already settled. I’ve given Anna the main en-suite. It has a fantastic view of the ocean and access to the private beach. I’m in the room that overlooks the stunning garden.

"So, basically, I work my ass off every day, surrounded by people with runny noses and all kinds of disgusting ailments, and you play with a kid and live in a mansion on the beach. And, to think I felt sorry for you."

I laugh at the expression on Anna’s face as she takes in the opulence.

"This is ridiculous, Ella. I can’t believe your boss let us stay here. Wow!"

"I know. Carter is very generous."

"About that. What does the man with the magic lamp look like?"

"There are photos inside the main house. I’ll show you around tomorrow. Are you hungry?"

"Starving."

"What are you in the mood for?"

"I’d eat roadkill at this stage."

"No need. I'll see what's on the dinner menu for tonight."

"Ella, you’ve got it sorted, my friend. Hats off to you."

I call the kitchen and find out what’s available. Before long, Anna and I are enjoying a delicious pasta verde on the deck that overlooks the ocean.

"I could get used to this," she grins and sips on her Pinot Grigio.

"It is lovely, isn't it?"

"You deserve a bit of luxury after what you’ve been through the last two years. I’m happy for you."

"I’m afraid to ask, but have you seen Sebastian?"

"Afraid so. He came by the hospital a few times, asking about you."

"Of course he did."

"No one knows anything, so you have nothing to worry about. How are you really coping, Ella?"

"I’m fine. I have the occasional nightmare that leaves me all panicky when I wake up, but apart from that, I’m well. I miss my friends and Aunt Sue terribly."

"We miss you very much, my friend. Have you made any friends here?"

"I have, actually. The Au Pair next door is a hoot. She’s from Paris. We hiked the mountains a few days ago."

"That’s good. You need friends."

"I don’t have that much free time, to be honest. Jagger keeps me pretty busy. But, yes, it is nice to have someone. Hannah and I are the European anomalies on the block, so we have that in common, I suppose."

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