Page 57 of Snowfall Over Halesmere House
‘I don’t mind,’ Ella murmured, bending down to stroke Prim, released from the kitchen. ‘And my money’s on Stan for a hutch; I think Santa will have enough to do with just guinea pigs.’
‘We’ll have to see about that. Stan’s looking more elusive every day, I’m sure he’s got something up his sleeve.’ Max headed off, Arlo grumbling quietly in his arms.
Lily had finished her hot chocolate before Max reappeared, so Ella encouraged her to go up and they shared a hug before Lily went off in search of her dad. Prim was settled in her bed beside glittering Christmas lights. Ella collected her coat and called a cheery goodnight from the bottom of the stairs.
‘Are you going?’ Max stuck his head over the banister. ‘You don’t want to stay for a drink?’
‘Better not. I’ve got an early start and Ashley’s coming to decorate the house.’
‘Remind me what time everyone’s arriving tomorrow evening?’
‘Six thirty for drinks. Maybe you could come over before then? I was hoping you might let the photographer take your picture.’
‘Oh, were you?’ His grin was merry. ‘Actually, I’ve rearranged my calendar so I’m all yours for the day. In between school hours anyway,’ he clarified. ‘You’ll have enough on your plate, if you’ll pardon the pun, without my two slowing you down.’
‘That’s thoughtful, thank you.’ Ella felt her pulse jump, liking the anticipation of spending the day with him. ‘I can give you lots to do. And it was a terrible pun.’
‘Sorry.’ He winked, letting her know he wasn’t. ‘I’m certain you’ve got it all under control, but I thought you might appreciate an extra pair of hands. I’ve borrowed Ashley’s babysitter for the evening so we’re good to go, in theory. I’ve promised the kids they can come over and see the house when it’s ready.’
‘Perfect. I think it’s going to look amazing.’ Ella fastened her coat against the rain. Max ran downstairs to follow her out, pulling the door across without closing it.
‘Hey.’
‘What?’
‘Just this. I don’t think I’ve got two minutes; one will have to do. Lily’s still awake.’ He placed his hands on Ella’s shoulders, dropped a light kiss on her lips. ‘Thank you for supporting us tonight, it meant a lot.’
‘My pleasure. You were wonderful, truly, the way you played. You have such a special gift.’ She slid her hands beneath his jacket, her heart filling up with love for him. ‘I’d so like to hear you again.’
‘Then you shall.’
‘Do you mean it?’
‘Yes. I’m sure you’ll get bored before I do.’ There was a shout from upstairs and Max grinned, touching his forehead to hers. ‘Time’s up.’
Chapter Nineteen
‘You look lousy.’ Dylan, on her phone screen, was grinning and Ella pulled a face at him. She was in her pyjamas and cosy in her comfortable bed.
‘So would you if you were working half as hard as I am. I bet you’re the laziest ski instructor in town.’ Despite the late hour, she was glad they were finally catching up in person. He looked typically gorgeous, blond hair tousled and messy, blue eyes teasing in a suntanned face. She was joking; she knew he’d be working every bit as hard as he partied. ‘Shouldn’t you be in bed too?’
‘I was, an hour ago. But she kicked me out and I’m back at the chalet.’
Ella rolled her eyes. ‘Kicked you out? That’s a first. Anyway, I’ve got a big day tomorrow and I need my rest. Why have you called me so late?’
‘I’ve got some news and I haven’t seen you properly for ages. And it’s not like you’d have gone to sleep early. How do you fancy a house guest, I’m packing in the skiing gig. I’ve been offered a job in Copenhagen, and I’ve got a few days to spare before it starts. I thought I could come over and see your place.’
‘Dylan, that’s brilliant, congratulations. Doing what exactly, in Copenhagen?’
‘Head chef in a start-up on the waterfront in Nørrebro. Private investors, big ideas, big budget. Check it out, it’s a great district, really cool. I’m still in shock if I’m honest, it’s an incredible opportunity. I start first week January and we open in February.’
‘I’m so pleased for you, that’s wonderful.’ Ella wished she could hug him in person. But she also felt another thread to her old career snapping; like her, Dylan had always loved a challenge, refused to stand still, and now he was moving on again, returning to the work he loved, without her. ‘Your first head chef. Wow. Totally deserved. We need to celebrate!’
‘Thanks, Ells.’ There was a casual note in Dylan’s voice as the laughter fell away. ‘I’d ask you to come with me if I thought you’d say yes. We’re gonna need a brilliant sous chef and you’re the best. But you don’t, do you? Want to come?’
‘I can’t.’ She knew he’d understand the quiet regret in her voice, the finality of realising they were unlikely to work together again. ‘There’s so much going on and I can’t leave in January. I have to see it through and make sure Max has the support he needs to carry on.’
‘Okay. It was a long shot but if you ever change your mind the offer’s there.’ Dylan shrugged and she was certain his wry smile revealed he knew she wouldn’t. ‘So have you got room for me in this country mansion then?’
