Page 101 of A Scottish Island Summer

‘She lied,’ I said in an excited tone, interrupting their conversation about the cross.

Both of them turned to look at me, bemused.

‘Who did?’ puzzled Logan.

‘Chrissie Aitken.’

Now it was Campbell’s turn to look confused. ‘What did she lie about? How do you know?’

I pointed to where Chrissie and Conall had been loitering only moments before, the air around us still peppered with the faint traces of smoke from the bonfire and lit fireworks. ‘I heard them talking; Chrissie and Conall that is.’ I dropped my voice to a hush, even though there was now only the three of us left on the hill. ‘Chrissie said something about Gabriel talking about discovering a letter about the cross existing.’

Campbell arched his brows. ‘Are you sure?’

‘Absolutely.’

I could see Logan turning over what I’d just told him. ‘She probably wants to keep it quiet too, just in case there’s any truth in it. Pity we couldn’t get hold of this letter.’

There was an awkward cough from behind us causing us to spin round in surprise.

‘I’m sorry, but I overheard you talking. Again,’ said Ava. She blushed. ‘I’m making a bit of a habit of it. I’m sorry.’ She flicked an embarrassed look at Campbell and hesitated, her cheekbones pinging candy pink again. ‘Anyway, I’ve got a suggestion.’

‘Oh?’ said Campbell, surveying her in the darkness.

Ava huddled deeper in her blush-coloured coat. ‘I’ve a friend who’s a bit of an expert when it comes to family trees here on Skye.’ She eyed us with a glint of optimism. ‘His name is Elliott Becker. I know it could be a bit of a long shot, but he might be able to give you some additional background about Gabriel, if you think that would help? Might throw up some background information on him, which could be useful?’

I nodded. ‘I think it’s worth a try. Campbell? Logan?’

After a few seconds deliberation, Campbell and Logan were in agreement.

‘Alright Ava.’ Campbell smiled. ‘Thank you. What have we got to lose?’ He continued to study her. ‘You seem to be turning into our guardian angel.’

Ava broke into a delighted grin and I nudged Logan pointedly.

Seems like the Skye Lovers’ Cross might be working some romantic magic already.