‘Clean breaks are never painless and I’ve learned that the hard way … It took a lot of courage for you to accept Gabe’s help,’ Sam said.

‘Not as much as it took him to offer it again – and again – until I finally realised he was handing me a lifeline. If he hadn’t paid for my rehab, God knows where I’d be now. It’s still tough to walk by the bookies, or keep off the online sites, but I’m dealing with it.’ He hugged Sam. ‘I can’t believe what I put you all through.’

‘There’s only one way now. Forwards,’ said Sam, hugging him again.

‘It’s not for me to interfere in your love life, but if Gabe keeping my secret is stopping you guys from being happy, then I’ll never forgive myself. I might not be here at all if he hadn’t helped me.’

‘I know. I’m only just coming to terms with finding you and the truth.’

‘I’m the last person to offer advice, but I don’t buy that. You’re scared of asking him to stay here, aren’t you? Scared it won’t be enough for him and he’ll disappear and you’ll be hurt again.’

Another truth hit her smack in the chest. She opened her mouth to deny it but couldn’t. ‘He’ll leave. I know he will. I’ve not heard from him since Sunday night.’

‘Really?’

‘I asked him to give me space and time.’

Ryan swore. ‘Then what do you expect? He’s a bloke doing as he’s told for once and you’re still not happy?’

Sam batted him gently. ‘Cheek!’ Her brief smile faded.

‘I’m joking but … he’s opening the restaurant, isn’t he?’ Ryan said.

‘That doesn’t mean he’ll stay. How can he be happy here in Porthmellow after the life he has in London? I’m not starting anything knowing he could leave again.’

‘Look, Sam. When Gabe makes a decision, you know he sticks to it. If he says he’s staying around, you should give him a chance. If you can give me another chance, you can surely give Gabe one.’

That was just it. Gabe had hinted he’d stay but because of her. What if he realised that she wasn’t enough? Ordinary Sam, living an ordinary life in a little Cornish village that had had its five minutes of fame for the year. Then again, she supposed she could go to London with him …

‘And,’ said Ryan softly, ‘Mum would want you to forgive Gabe. She’d want you to smile and dance and be happy with someone you care about.’

Sam turned to him, fresh tears in her eyes. ‘You’re right about that.’