Wanted to let you know that the sale has all gone through for the schoolhouse. I’m officially the new owner. (Don’t worry, I won’t be there too often during the renovation).

Another winky face.

I can tell you more tomorrow when I see you. See you at 5.55 p.m. outside the studio x

Smiling that the beautiful building and its grounds were saved, and also that Lorcan had let me know, I was about to set the phone down – his message hadn’t seemed to need a reply – when I saw that he was once again typing. I waited, watching the screen.

Ps, I really am sorry if I said something that upset you earlier. Sleep well x

OK, so here was a dilemma. I didn’t feel that I was yet at the ‘send a hug’ stage with Lorcan, but would saying nothing seem rude? And the words ‘I’m fine’ could be interpreted in so many ways, that could come across wrong too. Oh, for goodness’ sake…

‘Hi.’ Lorcan answered the video call, surprise showing on his face.

‘Hi. Sorry, I hope I’m not interrupting anything.’

‘Not at all,’ he replied, settling back into his sofa (a warm, rich red velvet number rather than the cold black bachelor leather I’d imagined). ‘This is a nice surprise.’

I paused, trying to decide whether he meant it or whether it was another of his wind-ups.

‘Wow.’ His laugh was deep, rich and relaxed. ‘I really have done a number on you, haven’t I? I mean it. It is a nice surprise.’

‘Oh. Right. Well, thank you.’

He smiled.

‘I just wanted to let you know that I’m fine. I mean, earlier. You didn’t upset me. And things don’t always come out as you mean them on text. So… yep. Fine.’

God. I felt as if I was about thirteen again.

‘Thank you for calling.’

He really did have the sexiest voice. The soft accent made the deep, gentle tone so melodic and I knew from experience that, up close, it only got better.

‘You OK?’ His frown deepened.

‘Me? Yep. Fine. Good. Thanks.’

Oh, Christ. Calling had been a bad idea. Note to self, stick to text next time and deal with any consequences later.

‘So, anyway, that was it really.’

Lorcan glanced at his watch. ‘Still got twenty-five minutes reading time left.’

‘Interesting that you were able to absorb so much of my schedule in a short time.’

‘Not as green as I’m cabbage looking,’ he replied, giving me one of those winks. ‘I’d better let you go anyway so you can get your reading in.’

‘Oh… yes. Right.’