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David, caught off-guard, nods. Robbie then turns and walks away. He puts his helmet back on, climbs on his motorcycle, and drives off.

“Well, that was thrilling,” David comments.

“That’s the guy who doesn’t get on with Ally, right?” Grace checks.

I nod.

“He tried to act all badass, but he clearly cares about his brother.” David places a hand on his chest and sighs. “That’s actually really sweet!”

“Sweet” isn’t a word I’d use to describe Robbie MacDonald, but I’m glad no punches were thrown—just as I’m glad Robbie’s bike didn’t hit me.

That was too close. I really have to pull myself together.

CHAPTER TWENTY-EIGHT

EMILY

After browsing Bannock’s shops, of which there aren’t many, Grace, David, and I return to the Bannock Hotel and cosy up in the snug for another hot drink, happy to escape the drizzle for a while. I think today we’re all content to just take things easy and enjoy each other’s company.

Jamie makes the three of us teas, and shortly after he serves them, Ally and Aidan return. They’re both bouncing with energy, which is an encouraging sign, but the first thing Ally does is ask me how I’m doing.

“I’m fine. Nothing to report at our end—we’ve just had a lazy morning.”

“Nothing to report?” David repeats incredulously.

I know he’s referring to my brush with Robbie and his motorcycle, but this is a big moment for Ally, and I don’t want to spoil it. Catching David’s eye, I give a subtle shake of my head.

“Let’s hear from you, Ally,” I say. “Explain why you’re looking so pleased with yourself!”

“Well . . .” he begins, sliding into the seat beside me.

“It’s happening!” Aidan bursts out. “It’s actually bloody happening!” He grabs a hold of Ally’s shoulder and shakes his friend.

Aidan’s excitement is palpable, but even Ally, who’s normally pretty reserved—not one for public displays of emotion—breaks into a stupid grin.

“Aye, I can hardly believe it,” he admits. “Craig said yes! He wants us to run outdoor activities for his guests.”

“That’s amazing! Well done!” I throw my arms around Ally, delighted for him.

Grace and David voice their congratulations too. Even Jamie, who looks stunned, finds something positive to say.

Ally pulls me closer to him and whispers, “Thank you. This is all your doing, you know. If it wasn’t for you, I wouldn’t have been open to any of this, but you made me think that happiness is possible—and what’s more, that I deserve it.”

My heart flutters.

“Oi, stop hogging your girlfriend!” Aidan objects. “I want to thank her too. She gave us some great advice earlier.”

It’s the first time I’ve been described as Ally’s “girlfriend”. The word catches me off-guard, but then warmth spreads through my body. I disentangle myself from Ally to find Aidan grinning at me.

“If I’m honest,” he says, “at first I wasn’t sure about this ugly oaf getting all mushy over a lass. You’re all right, though, Emily. I like you. And you obviously give Ally something he doesn’t get from hanging out with me. He’s been in a far better mood these last few weeks than he’s been in for years.”

“I give him something he doesn’t get from you, do I?” I glance at the bar to see Jamie opening his mouth, so I get in before he can. “It must be the sex.”

We all laugh at this, and Ally draws me close to him again.

“It’s not just the sex, lass,” he assures me, then quietly he adds, “although that is very good.”

“We should all go somewhere to celebrate,” Aidan suggests.