Page 70 of Journey to the Scottish Highlands

‘We need more income for this place,’ said Alison, her voice carrying a desperate edge. ‘Evan’s monthly contributions are wonderful, but they’re being swallowed up by maintenance bills.’ I heard her sigh from the depths of her chest and recalled her similar comments to me when I’d accompanied her to the high school.

‘Pity Dane wasn’t as thoughtful as his older brother,’ muttered Bennett.

I felt guilty standing there, but this conversation was firing up my curiosity – and my concern.

I glanced around to make sure there was no one else about.

‘Och, you know how different our boys are, Bennett. Evan would give most folks the shirt off his back if they asked.’

My chest gave a flutter at this hot image.

‘And as for Dane, well, I know he can be self-centred, but if he knew the extent of the issues we’re having to deal with, he’d be concerned.’ Alison tutted and continued speaking. ‘And he is doing his bit with trying to keep on top of the gardens now that we’ve had to let Freddie go. I just don’t feel comfortable taking money from Evan,’ Alison carried on. ‘It’s too much, and he has to think about himself. The cost of living in the London area isn’t cheap.’

‘I know that,’ agreed Benett on the other side of the door. ‘He’s a good lad.’

‘Yes, he is, but he should be securing his own future.’

I turned over everything as I hovered there. It was such an altruistic thing for him to do for his family. Then again, if Dane knew the extent to which The Ramblings was struggling, which it sounded like he didn’t, maybe he’d step up and try to help more, too. I was sure he would, even if he did tend to give the impression at times that he thought the world should revolve around him.

‘Daisy? What are you doing?’

I leapt at the voice coming from behind me and spun round, guilt riven on my face.

It was Louise.