Page 89 of The Summer Island Swap
Margot drained her cup and put it on the chair next to her. ‘So, tell me… how long have you and Rick been dating?’
‘What? Oh… um… we’re not…’
She rolled her eyes. ‘Forgive me. I’m in my eighth decade. No doubt I’ve got the terminology wrong. I can’t keep up with all of the terms youngsters use these days…’
‘Me neither,’ I said and we smiled at each other.
‘It’s clear to me you two are more than just friends. When a woman wears a man’s item of clothing—’ she glanced at the hat ‘—it’s her being territorial.’
‘He gave it to me,’ I protested. ‘And Rick and me… it’s not been that long.’
‘Well, I’m pleased. His last relationship didn’t end well.’
‘He explained.’
She patted my knee. ‘Then you must be close. It’s not something he talks about now – not even with me.’
She took out her compact and re-applied her lipstick. I looked over at Rick. He caught my gaze, winked and came back.
Margot stood up. ‘Let’s get going. It’s super to be met by my grandson, but there’s only one real man in my life.’
‘I know my place,’ said Rick. ‘Honestly. Never thought family would put me second to a monkey.’
‘Is he okay?’ she asked. ‘Enjoying meeting the volunteers?’
Rick couldn’t have told her about the stag party’s escapade.
‘He’s fine. And will be glad to see you. He’s become quite attached to Sarah. Having you around will soften the blow when she returns to England.’
‘Talking of which, I almost forgot to enquire about getting my ticket changed,’ I said and rummaged in my handbag. Margot spoke urgently to Rick; I heard her say something about an idea. He expressed surprise first and then what sounded like approval. I turned to go when a hand curled around my elbow.
‘Don’t be silly,’ said Margot. ‘Why would you go back to England when we’re about to offer you a job here?’
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I gaped. ‘But you haven’t even decided… this business is still in the fledgling stage and—’
‘Let’s get on the boat. I’ll explain as we head over to Seagrass Island. Surely an extra day or two here won’t make too much of a difference whilst you think it over? And if you still want to go back early, I’ll personally pay for a ticket, so that you aren’t out of pocket if it’s too late to change your old one.’
‘Chatty would appreciate any extra time with you,’ said Rick. His whole face had lifted.
‘That’s low.’ I tried to take on a scolding tone but failed. ‘But Margot… I’ve drawn up that five-year plan you talked about. I’m itching to get back to England and put it into action.’
‘My – our – offer isn’t going to hold you back, dear. Right. Rick. Let’s find a taxi. Now tell me about this stag party.’
Rick and I exchanged looks. By the time we’d reached the harbour I realised Margot was a persistent and perceptive person. She’d sensed something was afoot and quickly deducted it was to do with Chatty.
‘They didwhat?’ she said and stepped onto the boat. Rick carried on her luggage and his gran and I sat near the front, as Rick took his position at the steering wheel. ‘They didn’t realise he’s blind? Why didn’t you tell me about this?’ she said to Rick in a sharp tone, as we slowly pulled away from the jetty. ‘Is Chatty full recovered? Did you call the vet? Is he more shy with the volunteers now? Do you think we should—’
‘This is exactly why I kept it to myself,’ said Rick. ‘I didn’t want to worry you as you lived thousands of miles away. It would be different if you were closer.’
‘I hope so, young man. I’m not made of feathers, you know.’
‘Don’t I know it.’ He groaned. ‘Titanium wings, more like.’
‘So, this job offer, Sarah,’ she said and smiled warmly. ‘It’s the position of hotel manager. Our venture is small – the perfect size for you to start out with. Your ideas so far have been completely on point.’
‘Manager? But I live in England.’
