She looked over Anna’s shoulder to the bushy-haired man who was hurrying towards her. Something about his faded t-shirt and ripped shorts was familiar.

“Keely, it’s good to see you’re okay.”

He wrapped her in a warm hug and she smiled. “Marty?” Over his shoulder she noticed Anna’s disapproving look.

“I’ll leave you to catch up with your friend,” she said.

Marty let Keely go and stepped back. “Everything went alright then? I didn’t like to leave Perth without seeing you but the nurse said you couldn’t have visitors for a while and Steve had organised a ride—”

“I’m fine, Marty.” Keely watched Anna push her trolley slowly on up the aisle. “Thanks for packing up my things.”

“So, what are you doing here? I thought you’d planned to go north after Perth.”

“I did, but I needed somewhere to recuperate after the operation and Euan…a friend, offered me a place down here. Are you staying in Margaret River?”

“Not far away. Just up the coast a bit at Gracetown.” He smiled and ran his fingers through his hair. “I haven’t quite got the hang of surfing like Steve and Mike. I guess I’m a slow learner. They’ve gone to try out the Boneyard today.”

“Sounds scary.” Keely smiled.

“They say it’s aptly named.” He glanced back behind him. “Was that woman from the family you’re staying with?”

Keely followed Marty’s nod in time to see Anna move stiffly around the corner. “No, a friend of theirs. I’m staying at Levallier Dell Winery, it’s a bit of a way out of town. Two blokes run it, a father and son, and they’ve let me have their little studio overlooking the river.”

“Sounds good. Have you got transport? You’ll have to come and spend the day with us.”

“I don’t think surfing’s for me.”

“You don’t have to surf. The beaches are magnificent. Just come and have some fun.” The dimple on his cheek deepened as he grinned.

“How will I find you?”

“Mobile reception can be patchy but send me a text or you can try to call me.”

Keely got out her mobile. “My phone was stolen that night I ended up in hospital but I got it back.” She searched her contacts and found his name. “Yep, I still have your number. The studio doesn’t have a phone so I’ll text you the house number in case you can’t get me. I’m sure Euan or Flynn would take a message.”

“There’s no Mrs Levallier Dell?”

“No, but—”

“Keely!” Anna’s sharp call made them both turn. “I see Flynn is parked out the front, waiting for you. Should I tell him your friend will drop you home?”

“No, thanks.” Keely turned back to Marty. “I’d better go.”

“Who is that old girl?” he asked.