Her piercing gaze was like Euan’s. Keely felt as if Maggie could see right through her. She lowered her eyes, letting her hair fall forward.

Maggie’s gentle touch brushed Keely’s hair to one side. “You’ve got such healthy hair. I couldn’t help but think how striking you looked when I entered the house last night. By far the most beautiful woman present.”

Keely looked around the room, anxious to steer the conversation in a different direction. “It’s quiet here this morning.”

“Flynn and Kat have gone to Perth. They left quite early. Flynn had to pick up some labels he’s been expecting. Evidently, they missed the post. I can’t believe everyone has deserted me when I’ve just arrived. If only we’d known earlier, I could have brought them. He tells me the label has a sketch of Euan on it and that you are the artist.”

“It was just a rough sketch. Flynn took a fancy to it.”

“You like to draw and paint?”

Keely lowered her gaze to her cup. “Yes.”

“It’s a fine talent to have. Flynn has a good eye for art. I look forward to seeing the labels. His young lady friend, Kat, raved over your work as well. She suggested another of your caricatures for Flynn’s red once it’s bottled.”

Keely looked up from her tea. She hadn’t shown anyone her other pictures. Then she remembered the night the three of them had been in the studio. Kat had flicked through her sketchbook. It had to be Jack Maggie was referring to. “The whip cracker?”

“That’s it. I think Flynn likes the sound of the whip cracker for his cab merlot blend.” Maggie’s obvious affection for her nephew brought a glow to her face. “He has wonderful ideas, don’t you think?” Once again, those piercing blue eyes pinned her from across the table.

“Yes.” Keely stood up. She wanted to shout across the room just how much she loved his wonderful ideas and being a part of them but instead she took a breath, picked up her cup and moved to the kitchen. “I’d better get organised. Marty will be here soon. I thought I’d take some of the leftover cake I made for the party. It won’t keep much longer with cream in it.”

“You take whatever you like,” Maggie said. “I know Euan and Flynn won’t mind. They’ve appreciated having you here. Sounds like you’ve been helpful in many ways.”

Keely got out the chocolate cake she had made for Flynn. There was only one piece missing; they’d had so many sweets the night of the party. Oh, well, she thought, Marty and his mates would probably enjoy it.

Maggie walked her to the door. “Will we expect you home for the evening meal?”