“We’ve had a bit of time together.” She stepped off the verandah as a bike roared down the street. The shape of the rider was familiar and she couldn’t help but smile. “He does take time out every now and then.”

The bike slowed and stopped beside them.

“Hello, Flynn,” Anna called.

He pulled off his helmet and raised a hand in a wave.

“What are you up to?” he asked Kat.

“Being a tourist.”

“Do you want to come for a ride? You can have my helmet.”

“She will not, Flynn Levallier. Apart from the danger, you’ve already been fined for riding without a helmet once. Kat can borrow Sean’s.”

Anna bustled inside before Flynn could argue. Kat took the lid from her coffee and blew gently over its surface.

“Where are you taking me?” she asked.

“I have a special project on the go. I think you’ll be interested.” He grinned and put his finger to his lips.

Kat only managed a few sips of her coffee before Anna was back with the helmet. She gave Anna the cup. “Sorry. Can you get rid of this?”

“Of course.”

Kat strapped on the helmet and straddled the bike behind Flynn. She put her arms around him. He was deliciously warm. She closed her eyes and imagined he was Mal.

They both waved as Flynn pulled away from the curb. He was focused ahead but Kat felt a pang of guilt as she noticed the smug look on Anna’s face.

* * *

It was Euan who came back later in the day to discover Keely with books and magazines spread across the table. He looked windswept and bleary eyed, a bit like Flynn had that morning. She glanced up at the clock. It was after two. She’d become totally absorbed in the book she was reading. It was all about growing and making Australian wines.

“I’ve made some sandwiches if you’re hungry.”

“Thanks, Keely. I’ve got a couple of phone calls to make and I’ll be back.”

“Is Flynn coming in?” Keely was keen to talk over her menu suggestions and see what he thought.

“He went off to the Haystack Block earlier. Chasing another of his wild ideas. We could have done with his help. Hugh and I have been moving barrels on our own.” Euan frowned. “I don’t like the look of this weather.”

Keely glanced out at the clearing sky. There had been several heavy showers during the morning but the rain had passed and the leaves had stopped flapping on the vines outside. She wasn’t sure what it was he didn’t like the look of.