‘Looks like it.’ Her tawny eyes searched his. ‘I’m sorry. I was bitter and angry after Ryan went away. I’ve wronged you too. I didn’t try to see your point of view and even when I did finally see it, a few years after you left Porthmellow, I’d never have admitted it to you.’

‘What good will it do now? It’s time we buried the past, or at least put it into cold storage.’

Sam nodded. ‘After we’d all finished screaming and crying, we came to a sort of truce, for Mum’s sake as much as ours. She’d have wanted us to put the past behind us so we’ve arranged to meet Ryan’s new partner, Tilly, and her kids. They’re coming to Porthmellow to see me and Zennor next weekend.’

‘That’s great. I’m glad for you all.’

He touched his forehead to hers. ‘Sam. Stay here. This place is way too big for me on my own.’

She raised her eyebrows. ‘You’re not scared that the ghosts will get you?’

‘Not now you’re here.’

‘My home’s with Zennor for now, I couldn’t leave her, but if you were only a minute away, I’m sure I could spend some time – a lot of time – here.’ She kissed him and he closed his eyes, relishing he firm, hot press of her mouth on his. Nothing more was said. Nothing more needed to be said. They lay down on the bed and gradually, inch by inch, as the deep evening blue stole into the sky, Gabe finally believed that he was home and it was where he belonged.

Epilogue

A Few Weeks Later

Sam opened another window in the Institute. Although it was evening, the sun was still bright and the air was stuffy. Late July had brought a heatwave to Porthmellow and the harbour and beach had been rammed with families enjoying the first week of school holidays.

Everyone, apart from Troy, had swapped the usual tea for Evie’s homemade lemonade, which Sam thought was a vast improvement. Drinks in hand, they took their places around the table.

‘So, here we all are again. I’d like to welcome the newest member of our committee. I think you know him so I won’t waste time introducing him. Welcome, Gabe.’

There was laughter and a groan from Troy. Gabe gave a little bow. Evie smiled and wafted herself with a Japanese fan.

‘I also have good news,’ she began, slightly unsure of the reaction. ‘I’m delighted to announce that if we all agree, next year our main festival sponsor will be the Net Loft.’

‘Wow!’ said Chloe, positively radiating happiness.

‘Nice one, mate,’ said Drew, getting up to shake hands with Gabe.

‘He can afford it,’ said Troy. ‘Or did you have to twist his arm?’ he asked Sam.

‘Troy!’ Evie rapped him with her fan.