Page 43 of Sunny Skies and Summer Kisses

The family’s laughter was interrupted by the dogs who suddenly shot off into the house, barking noisily.

‘Ey up, I wonder what’s up with them?’ Ollie said, getting to his feet.

Moments later, Ethel and Mabel bounded back into the garden, Bob hot on their heels. The three proceeded to tear around, thrilled to be reunited.

Ollie stepped back into the garden, a shadowy figure behind him.

‘Wayhay, look who’s here,’ said Jimby.

Anoushka looked up, her heart leaping at the sight of Gabe standing in the doorway. He looked devastatingly handsome in an aquamarine t-shirt, battered jeans and aviator sunglasses, his fringe flopping over his forehead.

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Welcoming voices filled the air. ‘Now then, Gabe, it’s great to see you. How’re you diddlin’, mate?’ said Jimby, his voice warm.

‘Hi there, everyone.’ Gabe took off his sunglasses and glanced around at the sea of faces, his eyes finally resting on Anoushka. A smile broke out, lighting up his face.

In an instant, butterflies took flight in Anoushka’s stomach as she tried to keep her emotions under control.

‘Gaybublin!’ From her seat piled high with cushions between Jimby and Vi, little Pippin gave a shriek of delight, kicking her legs and waving both hands at Gabe, apparently overjoyed at his arrival. Emmie and Lottie glanced at one another, clamping their hands over their mouths, giggling at their young cousin’s unbridled enthusiasm.

‘Well hello, little lady.’ Gabe chuckled before turning to Kitty. ‘I’m really sorry, I had no idea you were eating. Will I come back later when you’ve finished your meal? I don’t want to intrude on your family time.’

Oh, that voice is just so delicious!Anoushka swallowed, still battling to get her emotions under control. She quickly reminded herself of his relationship with Lilith Dean, which had the desired effect, making her happiness slump in a flash.

‘Hey, it was me who told you it was okay to drop in. Kitts and Oll don’t mind, do you?’ said Jimby.

‘Definitely not.’ Ollie gave their new guest a friendly pat on the back. ‘S’good to see you.’

‘Oll’s right. Have you eaten? You’re very welcome to join us,’ said Kitty, smiling at Gabe. She put down the bowl of maple roasted parsnips and headed over to him, squinting in the sunshine.

‘Aye, our Kitts has done loads; there’s more than enough to go round,’ said Molly.

‘There is, and there’s space next to Noushka down at the end of the table; we just need to grab you a seat,’ said Kitty. Ollie obliged by fetching a chair and placing it next to his daughter while Kitty hurried off to seek out another mat and some cutlery.

Anoushka’s stomach was in knots at the prospect of making conversation with him. Why did she have to go and sit herself here and not in between anyone else? And more importantly, how could they possibly avoid touching onthosephotos?

‘Well, thank you, if you’re sure?’ Gabe said, watching as a place for him was set in a flurry of activity. He looked decidedly happy at the prospect of joining them.

‘Of course we’re sure; the more the merrier,’ said Kitty as she handed him a plate. ‘Just tuck in and help yourself.’

Anoushka felt her cheeks blaze as he headed over to her, aware of the surreptitious glances her family were throwing her way.Oh my days! I really wasn’t prepared for this.

Settling himself in his seat, Gabe turned to her, his dark eyes gentle. ‘So, how’re you doing, Noushka?’

Her heart rate upped its speed, the scent of his cologne sending a thrill through her. ‘Fine, thanks. You?’ She pushed her mouth into a smile, wishing her body would listen to her brain and calm its bloomin’ jets.

‘I’m good, thanks.’ He nodded, smiling. A few moments passed as he loaded up his plate with thick slices of roast beef. ‘You look very pretty; you suit your hair like that.’

She felt her blushes deepen. ‘Thank you.’Why was he talking to her like this? He’d be better off saving his compliments for his girlfriend.She searched her brain for something to say. ‘How’s the song writing going?’ She sliced into a roast potato and pushed half onto her fork.

‘Not bad, thanks. Though I’m hoping it’ll be better now I’m back here. Back home; I just got back this morning.’

‘Oh, right.’Home? Surely he wouldn’t be settling up here with Lilith Dean? How would that work with their careers?Anoushka couldn’t see that happening in a million years. From what she’d gathered, Lilith Dean favoured the bright lights and buzz of city life, something that was in short supply in the middle of the North Yorkshire Moors where the nearest nightclub was a good thirty miles away.

An air of awkwardness settled between them and Anoushka found her mind going frustratingly blank.

‘Tell you what, you missed a cracking night last night, Gabe.’ Jimby’s voice travelled down the table, piercing their uncomfortable bubble for which Anoushka was inexorably relieved. ‘It was loads of fun and raised thousands for the school’s extension funds.’

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