She fumbled with the bedside lamp and squinted at the dainty little clock on the table. It was only six o’clock. She lay still, listening. The house was silent. She pulled back the covers and climbed gingerly out of bed. Walking was easier this morning. In the en suite, she washed her hands and splashed water on her face then peered at her sallow reflection in the mirror and shivered. The cold air encouraged her to shuffle quickly back to bed and snuggle into the comfortable warmth.

There was a noise outside her door, a gentle knock, and then Euan stuck his head around. He was silhouetted by the light from behind.

“Hello. Did you sleep well?”

“Fine, thank you.”

“Are you ready for breakfast?”

She eased herself up. She did feel hungry. “Yes, thanks.” The pain was a dull throb but she’d take some tablets again to be sure to keep it at bay.

“Stay there.” Euan disappeared then the door swung open and he entered carrying a tray. “Here we are, mademoiselle, your breakfast.”

“I could have come out.”

“No, no. I insist. You are still recuperating. We need to put some colour back into those cheeks. Rest a little longer. Later I will take you out for some fresh air but it’s a bit cold outside right now.” He put the tray down and pulled back the curtains. “There’s a magnificent view from this window. As you eat, the river will appear.” He waved his hand majestically then picked up the tray.

Keely watched him approach. He was a fit-looking man, and this morning he was dressed in mismatched shorts and a crumpled shirt as if he’d put on whatever he’d laid his hands on first. He placed the breakfast tray across her lap, then backed away, still examining her.

Her heart raced under his scrutiny. She’d put a lot of trust in a man she hardly knew.

“I really think you should call your parents once you’ve—”

“Euan?” They were both startled by a male voice calling from the kitchen. “So, you’re home at last.” The statement had an accusing tone and a tall, sandy-haired man strode through the door. He stopped when he caught sight of them.

“Flynn.” Euan turned abruptly towards the door.

Keely clutched awkwardly at the sheet. This must be Euan’s son. He was taller than his father but there was no mistaking the profile of his face and the sharpness of his gaze.

“Oh…I didn’t realise,” Flynn stammered, his look grim.

“This is…”

“I’d rather not be introduced, thanks Euan,” Flynn snapped. “I would’ve appreciated some warning that you were home and that you’d brought a guest.” He spat the last word out as if it was poison.

“You weren’t home last night or I would have.”