“Oh, Mary, you made it. Hello, David.” Keely had to shout above the music and the loud voices of the large crowd now packed into the cellar-door space.

“We thought we’d pop out and say a quick hello. David is still madly organising things for next weekend.”

“How’s it all going?” Keely asked.

“Shaping up well,” David said.

“What about here?” Mary raised her eyebrows. “Has Euan come to terms with Levallier Dell’s involvement yet?”

“I think so.” Keely sidestepped as one of Flynn’s friends lurched her way past from a boisterous group nearby.

“Looks like everyone’s enjoying themselves.” Mary laughed. “Where’s the birthday boy?”

Keely glanced around. “I’m not sure.” She’d hardly seen Flynn since Kat had arrived. He had introduced Keely to some of his friends but, with so many people arriving, he had been swallowed up in the crowd. She’d kept herself busy putting out the meat Euan and Connor had cooked, setting out the salads and cleaning up.

At one stage, she’d been in the kitchen doing some dishes and had seen Flynn and Kat on the back verandah. They were talking earnestly together, their heads close, and Keely saw Flynn rest a hand on Kat’s shoulder before someone came into the kitchen and interrupted her. When she had looked back, they were gone.

“I can see Flynn.” David’s call brought her back to the party. He set off through the crowd. Mary mouthed see you later and followed behind, saying hello to other friends as they passed through the crowd.

Keely was envious of the ease with which they mingled. Flynn’s friends were a friendly bunch but she felt as if she remained on the outer. From their conversations she gathered they worked hard and they obviously partied hard, too.

One guy they called Noddy kept climbing on top of the keg tables. He was tall and thin and wore an Akubra hat. He’d down a shotty, then pretend to surf. Once he’d swallowed the drink, he’d slap his bum and whoop, looking more like a cowboy than a surfie. Everyone would laugh and he’d jump down, ready for the next round.

Keely continued to keep herself busy. Eventually she turned up next to Hugh with a platter of sweets in her hand. He was the man she’d seen around the winery on several occasions. Even though she had only been officially introduced to him that morning, he was one person Keely felt as if she knew after all the work they’d put in since, preparing for the party.

“Thanks, Keely.” Hugh looked around then took another piece of the slice she offered. “Don’t tell the wife. She’s already on about me not fitting into my wedding suit.”