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“You do?”

“He hasn’t shown me a reason not to. And anyway, it’s not like we’re getting married or anything. It was just sex.”

“But was it?”

Evie nodded despite the uncertainty whirling in her chest. “I think? We didn’t have a chance to discuss it. The production manager banged on the door, waking us up, and”—she giggled—“I’ve never dressed so quickly in my life. Nick’s been texting a lot, though.” She scrolled back to their messages since Saturday, showing Sunita:

Nick:

Hated rushing off and leaving you. Must be important if London can’t wait till Mon. Text me when you’re safely back on Mainland, k? x

Evie:

Hope your flights are comfy. I’m home now. Missing you so much. Gonna have a LONG bubble bath.

Nick:

Ahh, you’re killing me! Will be thinking about THAT sexy visual all day. Good thing I’ll be sat behind a big table. LOL. What else you up to? Btw landed in London x

Evie:

NICK! Your daisies arrived. There are SO MANY! Thank YOU!

Evie:

I plan to write, have a baked tattie for dinner then watch Xanadu for the zillionth time. Bet you’re glad to be in London after hearing that, eh?

Nick:

Rather be there with you. Glad flowers arrived. First long meeting done. Off to meet Zach for dinner. Wanna FaceTime after? x

Evie:

So tired. Don’t think I’m awake enough for a virtual booty call.

Nick:

As lovely as that would be, I was only asking so I could see my gorgeous girl and wish her sweet dreams x

Evie:

What am I like?! Mind = gutter. Yes! Call in 5? x

Sunita pulled back. “That’s not just sex, Eves. That’s Nick wanting a second chance.”

“You think? I didn’t want to assume. Assuming has landed me in trouble before.”

“Do you want him back?”

The question from Sunita she’d been dreading. Evie tucked her phone in her apron. “Am I an idiot if I say yes?”

“No. I think he’s changed…or maybe I have?” said Sunita. “It’s funny how time and age can make you see things differently. I know I’ve had my issues with Nick over the years, but I feel like he’s redeemed himself this summer. When you burned your hand, I thought his quick response was down to health and safety ’cause ultimately it’s his responsibility. But then there was the raisin thing and the orca and him buying your book—”

“Sending me daisies.” She grinned softly. Kissing my scar.

“The guy can’t do enough for you,” said Sunita. “It’s like he’s groveling through actions, not words.”

“I know. And I love it!”