Page 26 of Be More Octopus

'I don't think so. I've told you I enjoy your company. I like the way you see the world. You make me laugh. It takes my mind off my messy divorce.'

If it hadn't been for the Si incident, Em would have asked more about the divorce, but right now, she wasn't interested in anything or anyone. 'Sorry I'm not making you laugh now. I'm just feeling really down. I think it was that bastard at the pub, reminding me what it's like being out in the big, bad world. I've been in a protective bubble since I moved here. But I will have to leave that bubble at some point.'

Jack looked thoughtful. They carried on walking side by side down the drive to Dashford Grange.

When they got to the courtyard, Jack broke the silence. 'Do you want to talk about it? I could put the kettle on.'

'I think I've taken up enough of your time this evening.' Em could feel herself tearing up. Don't bloody cry now! She ran up the steps to her front door so he wouldn't see.

'If you're sure. You know where I am if you need me,' he called after her.

Oh, Jack, I do need you. Shut up, woman. It's the wine talking. 'Thanks. Night, Jack.'

'Night, Em.'

CHAPTER TWENTY-FOUR

A text from Jack.

Are you awake yet?

Em looked at the time on her phone. 8.45 am. Bit early for a Sunday. She usually slept in after the exertions of the guest changeovers on Friday and Saturday, and she'd been hoping to do that today, especially after last night's stressful events.

Just about

Three dots appeared immediately

How do you feel about going on a pirate hunt?

What was he on about? Was she still asleep? Em responded with a puzzled face emoji.

The three dots appeared again. They stayed there for a while. It must be a long reply.

You'd be helping me if you did. It involves heading to the south Devon coast via Dartmoor, doing some ankle-friendly walking, and taking a few photos. Then we'll have Sunday lunch somewhere if you're up for it?

Em got out of bed and opened the curtains. Gorgeous sunshine and a clear blue sky. Jack's proposition was more interesting than doing housework indoors, even if she'd have to forego her lie-in.

OK then

That didn't sound very enthusiastic. She sent Jack a follow-up message:

Sounds fun

Jack replied:

Excellent. See you in 30 minutes in the courtyard. Bring a water bottle and walking boots. I'll sort out the rest.

'So you're going to be more Captain Jack than Professor Jack?'

Jack smiled. 'Yes, I suppose so.'

Today's trip had turned out to be additional research for Jack's new book. Em had assumed it was another academic text on 19th-century shipping, but it was on a more mainstream topic. 'My agent suggested we do something commercial. So we pitched British Pirates to a few television production companies. I spent this spring recording a 2-part documentary, and now I'm finishing editing the book, so it's ready to come out when the programme airs next spring.'

She looked at him curiously as he drove across Dartmoor, heading for their first stop, Littleham.

'Stop trying to picture me with black eyeshadow and long hair,' Jack said.

Was she that easy to read? 'A head scarf might suit you. And if you ever want to borrow my eyeliner, just ask.'