‘How’s life on Puffin Island? Are you still there, heading to your next destination or heading home? You’ve been quiet.’
‘I’m still here.’ She blew out a breath.
‘Oooh, it sounds like you have gossip.’
Verity spilled the beans. ‘A one-night stand has been ticked off the bucket list before I hit thirty.’
‘Is this Verity Callaway I’m talking to? Miss Prim and Proper? You’re a dark horse. Finally, you’ve become a modern woman!’
‘Don’t, I feel awful about it.’
‘Why?’
‘Because I suppose I’ve never done anything like that before. I’m usually in some sort of relationship before I’ve gone to that stage.’
‘The sea air must have addled your brain.’
‘It’s not funny, I could cry.’
‘And who was this guy?’
Verity hesitated. ‘Sam.’
‘Aww, gorgeous Sam whom you followed to Puffin Island after stalking him at the ferry port? Gorgeous Sam whose cottage you’ve been staying in?’
‘I didn’t stalk him!’ she exclaimed, indignantly.
‘Mmm, I’d say you got what you wanted, so why not embrace it for what it is? Why could you cry? Was it rubbish sex?’
‘The best I’ve ever had. But he’s made it clear he’s not looking for a relationship.’
‘So just sit back and enjoy the ride – literally.’ Ava laughed. ‘Have fun whilst you’re on the island. It’s a bit like a holiday romance, then you go home.’
For a moment Verity was quiet.
‘The silence is telling me there may be more,’ prompted Ava.
‘Whereishome?’
‘The Midlands.’
‘But what have I got there? Yes, I have a house, but it’s rented out for the next six months so I can’t go back just yet.’
‘I know, and that’s my fault, but you could always come and stay in my digs in London. We can still have our adventure. It just won’t be exactly what we had planned.’
‘Hmm…the fast-paced city or the soothing island with the perfect view?’
‘Are we talking about the sea view or Sam?’
‘The sea! There’s an opportunity to apply for a job here on the island as a veterinary assistant. I’ve no idea where I’ll live, but I could maybe book the hotel or the B&B until a house comes up for rent. What do you think?’
‘Wow! I wasn’t expecting that. I think, what have you got to lose? Go for it!’
‘That’s what Pete said.’
‘Pete? Sam? Please tell me you aren’t working your way around the island.’
‘Don’t be ridiculous! Pete is the main ranger in charge of the puffin count. He used to be a vet but is selling the surgery to Cooper, who already has a practice in Sea’s End and wants to expand.’
