I stared at her, then shook my head. “I can’t believe you bought our cottage.”
She took both my hands in hers. “Isn’t it about time?”
EPILOGUE
EIGHT MONTHS LATER
Irolled over, and rebounded off Eliza for the third time that week. I was still getting used to permanently sleeping in the same bed as her. Still surprised that another warm body was lying next to me. But it was something I was thrilled about. Two weeks in, and the novelty of waking up next to her hadn’t worn off.
“Did you just smack your nose again?”
I smiled as Eliza rolled over, her face adorably creased with sleep.
“Uh-huh.”
“You really need to get used to the fact we live together.”
“I do. But you’re the first person I’ve ever lived with. It’s only been two weeks. My body needs time to adjust to its new circumstances. Plus, I’m on Highland time now.”
Eliza rolled her eyes, then pressed her warm lips to mine. She smelled delicious: freshly baked.
“Are you ready for the circus that’s coming to town today?”
I scrunched my eyes shut and wrapped myself around her like a koala. I hadn’t looked outside yet, but I already knew the snow would still be piled high in our garden and beyond.
“No,” I whispered.
Today was a big day for Voss Watches. Roka was arriving with Sasha for a spot of PR. It was also Fiona’s last day, and we were throwing a big party to celebrate her. As soon as she installed Eliza, and I told her I was moving here, she informed us she was going to retire.
“It’s time, hen. But I’ll still be around, don’t you worry. The company is in safe hands with you, Eliza, and Ronnie.”
“You think anybody would notice if we don’t turn up?” I asked. “Maybe we could become invisible, like the people who used to live here when we were kids?”
Eliza grinned, then kissed me again. “I forgot about them.” She looked wistful. “Do you think they actually were ghosts? And if so, are they still here?”
I frowned. “I’ve had enough ghosts to last me a lifetime. If they are, at least they’re not chatty like my family.” I paused. “Talking of which, did I tell you Sage is coming today?”
Eliza shook her head. “You did not.”
“Bryce couldn’t get the time off work, and Katy didn’t want to drive up on her own. Sage offered to share the driving and the childcare.”
“Is she bringing any spirits with her?”
I rolled my eyes. “Have you ever known my mother to miss a big occasion? I’ve no doubt they’ll be here. I just hope they respect the event and shut up. I’ve had enough time worrying about them. Now it’s time to trust our instincts and do what we think is right.”
I tucked a strand of hair behind Eliza’s ear and stared at her beautiful face. She was all mine. Sometimes, I couldn’t quitebelieve I got so lucky. What I’d been searching for had been right in front of me all along.
Eliza ran a hand down the side of my body, and I burrowed into her. She kissed my shoulder, then the top of my head. “I’m getting up now, because we should get going. But I’m making bacon sandwiches first. Got to keep the CEO fed so she can perform today.”
I groaned and rolled onto my back.
It was still lonely at the top, but at least I had Eliza beside me now.
“Oh my god,I am such a fan. Thank you so much for coming, for wearing Voss watches, for your music, just for everything you do.”
When Ronnie said he was Roka’s biggest fan, I hadn’t realised he was serious. But last night in the pub, he’d told me he had all Roka’s albums in every format, including a signed gatefold that he’d paid hundreds of pounds for. Now, I was going to have to prise her hand out of his death grip.
“Okay Ronnie, let the woman have a coffee before you propose marriage.”
