Page 207 of Modern Romance September 2026 Books 1-4

‘You look surprised,’ Daphne, her guide, had said.

‘I am.’ Though Panos was the same with Athena, patient and encouraging, often smiling. ‘When he said he needed to come here, I didn’t realise he’d be so hands-on.’

Daphne had grinned as she led her away. ‘He’s been that way from the first. Whenever he’s staying nearby he visits regularly. If a staff member is unwell, he pitches in and helps. Except in the kitchen. He’s useless there.’

Her laughter had been unfettered, making Dido wonder how Panos would react to being laughed at.

Over the years he’d grown in her mind into a formidable, unfeeling tyrant. Yet it seemed that image was flawed.

Glancing over her shoulder she’d seen the man himself, waist-deep in water, flicking diamond-bright droplets from his hair and grinning at the antics of a teenage boy.

He’d seemed like a different man…

‘A penny for your thoughts.’ Panos’ voice broke her reverie. ‘That’s the saying, isn’t it?’

Dido blinked and nodded. ‘It is.’

‘And? Did you enjoy your tour of Filos?’

Was that more than a casual question? Something in his voice made her wonder if her opinion mattered. How could that be?

‘I loved it. Everyone seemed happy.’ Who could blame them? The facilities were second to none and there was a relaxed air about the place. There were organised activities but it wasn’t all regimented. She’d noticed kids reading in quiet nooks or chattering together. ‘Daphne said the children are in care and this is one of their few opportunities for a vacation. It’s a wonderful thing you’ve done, giving up your family retreat for them.’

Panos kept his eyes on the water. ‘It wasn’t as if I had memories of the place. My parents died when I was tiny and the place was empty but for a caretaker. Far better that it’s used.’ His mouth tipped up at the corner. ‘The kids enjoy it.’

‘They sure do. One of them said she’s been visiting every year for five years. Her goal is to work there after she finishes school and qualifies as a teacher.’ Dido watched him closely. ‘She said she hoped to get a scholarship.’

‘Elektra?’ His mouth curved up. ‘I’m sure she will. She’s determined and studies hard.’

So he was closely enough involved to identify individual kids. Warmth spread through Dido’s chest. Admiration. This was so much more to him than a charitable tax deduction. ‘You’re bankrolling the holiday centre and scholarships as well?’

He pulled back on the throttle, slowing the boat as he turned, a frown knitting his brow. ‘Why not? I have the money and someone needs to support these kids.’ The smile that played around his mouth as he thought of Elektra faded. ‘Too often they miss out. Without families of their own to care for them it’s easy to fall through the cracks, to be neglected. To miss out on opportunities.’

His tone was measured yet she heard the undercurrent of emotion, saw it in the lift of his chin and the set of his mouth.

Because he knows what it’s like to be neglected.

He’d had everything money could buy but who’d loved him? Who’d truly cared about a little boy who must have been terribly lonely?

She’d been appalled at how regimented and cold his early life sounded.

Was that why he threw himself so passionately into this project? So other vulnerable children had something positive in their lives that he hadn’t experienced?

Her heart lurched in sympathy for the boy he’d been.

Maybe that place fulfilled a need in Panos too. A need for connection. He’d said everyone wanted him for his money. That there was always a catch. But there’d been no catch with those teenage boys. Even if they knew he funded the centre, their reaction to him was affectionate as well as respectful.

‘I agree. If more people invested in children instead of their own aggrandizement, the world would be a happier place. What you’re doing is wonderful.’

The boat slowed almost to a stop as he surveyed her. Even through those dark glasses, she felt his scrutiny.

‘Approval, Dido?’

She shrugged. ‘I call it as I see it. It’s a great initiative. I’m impressed. And,’ she continued before she could have second thoughts, ‘particularly because you do more than throw money at it. You’re involved.’

She almost added that he’d been marvellous with the kids, not just the ones learning to windsurf, but later with the younger ones. But it would sound like gushing. He’d only suspect her of toadying.

‘It’s no hardship. I enjoy being with them.’ He paused. ‘They loved having you there too.’