Page 39 of A Christmas Escape to Arran

‘It is now but it hasn’t always been like this. We used to work out of our cars.’

‘Well, you’ve done amazing things and it’s brilliant seeing the local kids getting so much out of it.’

‘Yes.’ He nodded. ‘Normally we’re mobbed with visitors during the holidays. So it’s nice to be able to spend some time with them. Makes a huge difference to their self-confidence.’

Fergus had previously explained to Amelia that they did a lot of project work with teenagers at risk of social isolation and those who didn’t seem to fit in at school.

‘Tea or coffee?’ Fergus held up a tin withTEAon the front in one hand and a jar of coffee in the other.

‘Tea would be great, thanks. And I take it black.’

‘Good, because we’re out of milk,’ said Grant. ‘I’m popping to the shop to get some. I’ll catch you later.’

She smiled at Grant as he left. She glanced idly over at Fergus, averting her gaze as he turned to bring their drinks over.

‘Thank you.’ She gratefully clasped her cold hands around the cup.

‘The cold weather takes a bit of getting used to. The trick is to make sure you’re dressed for it. Gloves?’

‘Good point. That’s something I don’t have.’

‘I’ve got loads of spares. Remind me to give you a pair before you leave.’

She sipped some tea and cleared her throat. ‘I hope you don’t mind me coming by to chat to you like this . . .’

‘Not at all.’ He leaned forward, fixing his gaze entirely on her. ‘What did you want to talk to me about?’

‘Edie. I’m a bit worried about her.’

He frowned. ‘More sleepwalking?’

She shook her head. ‘No, but she has told me what’s been bothering her.’

Picking his mug up, he waited for her to continue.

‘She’s had a letter from her sister, who is ill in hospital. She’s got cancer, and she’s dying, and she wants Edie to go and visit her.’

‘Ah. I did wonder when she would tell you.’

‘You know?’

He nodded. ‘Yes, she told me the other day but swore me to secrecy. Not that I would ever discuss other folk’s personal business. But I did wonder if she would tell you.’

‘Edie called the hospital in Glasgow and it would seem her sister doesn’t have too much longer. They suggested that if Edie was going to visit, she may like to do so sooner rather than later.’

Fergus exhaled. ‘And does Edie want to go and visit her?’

‘Yes, I think she does. But she’s a bit overwhelmed. That’s what I wanted to talk to you about. Do you think you could go with her? Could you take her to see her sister?’

‘Of course I will, no problem at all . . . Do you want me to go and talk to her? I can offer?’

‘I think that would be better. You know how independent she is. I don’t think she’ll ask.’

‘Of course. No bother.’

They finished their tea in quiet, companionable silence and Amelia stood up. ‘I’d better leave you to it. And . . . thanks, Fergus. I’m so glad you’re going to take her. It will mean the world to her.’

He shrugged. ‘I’ll do anything for her. She’s a special person.’

---