“What are you doing, Baba?” Tony clutched him by the arms. “You’re not as young as you used to be. You don’t have to do this, I said I’d…”

Theo pushed his son away. “I’m alright. I just stood up too quickly. It will pass. Don’t fuss.” He stood still for a moment, aware of Tony hovering close beside him.

“How often does this happen?” Tony asked.

“Every now and then. I’m alright,” Theo said again.

“Perhaps you should see the doctor.”

“I have. He gave me tablets.”

“Do you take them?”

“Sometimes. Look Tony, I’m fine. Let’s get on with the spraying.”

“I told you I’d get to it. I’m ready now. I’ll do it.”

Theo looked into the concerned face of his son. “Alright, but no more wasting time. Get the spraying done.”

* * *

Keely approached the house cautiously. It was an overcast morning and the lights were still on inside. She could see Maggie sitting at the table. Keely hoped Flynn or Euan would be about. She didn’t want to be left alone with Maggie.

“Good morning,” Maggie said as Keely tapped on the door and stepped inside. “Did you sleep well? Flynn and Euan told me all about the party and your misfortune. I can’t believe Euan allowed such crass behaviour.”

“It was an accident. No real harm done.” Keely gave a wry smile. “At least not to me.”

“Would you like a coffee?”

“Oh, no…thank you.”

“Would you prefer tea? Please have something.”

“Tea would be fine.” Keely had intended to collect some of the party leftovers to take with her, then make a speedy exit. Marty should arrive soon.

“I’m the only one here, I’m afraid.” Maggie boiled the kettle in the kitchen. “Euan has taken his surprise visitor into the village to join her crew, whatever that is. I don’t imagine there’s a ship in the main street of Margaret River.” Her chuckle was warm and gentle. “I can’t believe I didn’t know anything about Dianna till now. I can’t wait until he comes back. I have lots of questions.”

“She seemed a nice person.”

“You hadn’t met her before?”

“Only about five minutes before you did.” Keely glanced around. The family room was neat and tidy. Everything in its place. She wondered where Flynn and Kat were.

“Here you are.” Maggie placed a cup of tea in front of her. “What a shame you’re going off as well. I was looking forward to hearing about your travels.”

“I haven’t made it very far yet.”

“You haven’t had the best of starts for a holiday.” She pinned Keely with her look. “Still, I believe things happen for a purpose, don’t you? I’m sure everything will work out.”