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Grant shrugged. ‘Cheers.’

Amelia took a sip and tried to enjoy the feeling of the bubbles on her tongue. Then Grant wandered off to high-five a friend who had just arrived.

‘He’ll be here soon. Don’t worry.’

‘Who?’

‘Fergus. I know you’re wondering where he is . . .’

Amelia didn’t reply.

‘I think he’s fallen for you.’

‘Who?’

‘Fergus,’ she said, rolling her eyes. ‘His eyes light up when you come into the room. I’ve never seen him like that with anyone else . . . well, apart from Molly.’

Amelia didn’t look convinced. ‘He is full of charisma and charm. It’s hard not to be taken in by him.’

‘So haveyoubeen taken in by him?’

Amelia laughed. ‘He is clearly the sort of guy who makes every woman in his sights feel like the centre of his world.’

‘And how do you feel about him?’

Amelia didn’t answer. ‘I’m looking forward to the ceilidh . . . I’ve never been to one before.’

‘Trust me, you will love it. Once you get the hang of the moves then you will be fine, and let’s just say it can be quite boisterous and energetic.’

Amelia waved at Cano and Naza as they walked past the table. ‘Ladies, you both look splendid tonight,’ Cano remarked. He looked so different in his kilt and white shirt compared to his usual café uniform of black jeans, T-shirt and apron. Naza’s turquoise shift dress suited her beautifully and lit up her eyes.

‘Aw, so do you. Isn’t this so lovely?’ said Amelia, gesturing around the hall.

Naza nodded. ‘We are looking forward to tomorrow with you all too. It’s so kind of Edie to have us.’

‘It will be great fun,’ said Thea.

Amelia just hoped that things wouldn’t be awkward with Fergus and was glad there was safety in numbers.

‘Save me a dance,’ said Cano, and they walked on towards the bar.

Thea smiled kindly. ‘Look, I’m sorry if I’m speaking out of turn but I just think it’s a shame if you two let whatever happened mess things up. You clearly adore each other.’

‘Okay . . . thank you, Thea.’ Amelia desperately needed to change the subject and felt awkward as she had no idea what to say. She stood suddenly. ‘I’ll be back in a minute. I need to go and powder my nose.’

Chapter Sixty-Nine

When she walked out into the corridor in search of the toilets, she froze when she saw Fergus. The mere sight of him made her gulp and her breath started to quicken. Tonight, he wore a kilt, which made him look even sexier. Oh God, she was going to have to hide in the ladies all night if this was the effect he was having on her. Then he looked up and clocked her, his eyes widening as he took in her appearance.

For a moment, they were both locked in their own world as they stared at each other. She mouthed, ‘Hello,’ and his liquid brown eyes danced as he started to move towards her.

‘Hey, Fergus, I need you for a minute, please,’ said Doris, who appeared from nowhere. She was clearly a woman on a mission. She pulled him away and he looked over his shoulder helplessly as he was ushered into the hall. ‘I need you to demonstrate some of the moves.’

Amelia went into the loos and took a minute to compose herself. When she looked at her reflection in the mirror, she saw her cheeks were smudged with colour, her eyes bright, and she looked so different to the woman she had been just a couple of months ago.

‘Hi, dear, are you having a good time?’ Edie came and stood next to her at the sink, applying a fresh coat of lipstick.

‘Yes, thanks. What a lovely atmosphere.’ Amelia couldn’t help but feel glad that Edie had arrived at that moment. She had such a warm and comforting way about her.

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