Page 50 of Summer Escapes on the Scottish Isle

‘Youcould,’ he insisted. ‘You need a space to work and I’ve got one. What’s the problem?’

‘I don’t have any tools with me and neither do I have any clay.’

Mack chuckled. ‘That’s what the internet is for. Surely you can buy what you need online?’

‘I suppose I could.’ It’s what she normally did.

She thought about his offer, and the more she considered it, the more attractive it became. Making her mind up, she said, ‘Thank you, I will, and I promise I won’t steal your fish. You must let me give you something for your trouble, though.’

Freya wasn’t prepared for the flash of irritation in Mack’s eyes, nor for the firm set of his lips before he replied, ‘I don’t want payment. That’s not why I offered.’

Realising she’d insulted him, she hastened to say, ‘I know you don’t, but—’

‘No buts. This is what we do around here; we help each other. Or have you forgotten?’

She had, but she didn’t want to admit it. The city was so different to Duncoorie and although she had friends there and knew at least two of her neighbours, she wouldn’t expect such generosity from someone she hardly knew.

‘Thank you,’ she said simply.

‘The byre isn’t locked; just come and go as you please.’

‘It won’t be for a couple of weeks.’

‘No matter.’ Mack turned his face to the sky.

The breeze had freshened, and broken cloud scudded overhead. Freya shivered. The days might be warm, but the evenings could turn chilly.

Mack noticed the small movement. ‘Home time, I think. I’ve an early start. Mind you, all my starts are early when the forecast is good.’

‘So have I. I’m hoping Dad will be discharged tomorrow.’

‘If you need anything, just ask. You’ve got my number.’

‘I will,’ she promised as they turned to walk back to the castle and their respective vehicles. ‘Good night, Mack. I’ve enjoyed myself this evening.’

‘Aye, Mhairi lays a good table.’

That wasn’t quite what Freya had meant, but she decided it was best to go with his interpretation, because what she’dactuallymeant was that she’d enjoyed seeing him again, had enjoyed their walk and had enjoyed his company. So it was probably a good thing he’d misunderstood her.

Freya glared at the message from Hadrian, wishing she hadn’t sent himphotos of her boat trip or mentioned having dinner at Coorie Castle. Itconsisted of one word –sightseeing– followed by alaughing-face emoji.

She replied.Work, actually.

Out on a boat? Work?

Inspiration.

Dinner at a castle? Surely not work.

Feedback

Was the food good?

Yes. Yummy.

It’s a bit old-fashioned, thoughwas his reply and Freya imagined Hadrian scrolling through the castle’s website with a sneer on his sculpted lips. He didn’t do old-fashioned.

Does it smell of mothballs?

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