Wanting to help, she stood up and swiftly cleared everything away. ‘We’re going to leave the two of you alone for a few minutes,’ she said to Logan. ‘We’ll be next door if you need us.’ She washed her hands quickly and then touched Conner’s arm.

He turned, his face expressionless. ‘Yes?’

‘I don’t think we’re needed here.’ She gestured with her head. ‘Let’s go next door.’

‘Sure.’ With a faint shrug he followed her through to the surgery and they walked into her room. But he didn’t reach for her or make any of his usual wry, disparaging comments. Instead, he seemed distant. Remote. ‘So—I didn’t know you were a midwife.’

‘I’m not. That’s the first baby I’ve ever delivered.’

Conner gave a short laugh. ‘You’re full of surprises. I never would have known.’

‘Do you want to know the truth? I was always terrified that this baby would come when Evanna was on the island and I knew Logan would panic. So I read a few books, asked Evanna a few questions…’ Flora shrugged, wishing that he’d relax with her. ‘I had a nasty moment when I felt the cord but it was all fine. And it helped knowing you were there.’

‘I was as much use as a hog roast at a vegetarian supper,’ he drawled. ‘You did it all.’

‘That’s not true. You were strong,’ she said softly. ‘You gave Evanna confidence, and if something had happened to her or the baby, you would have known what to do. You’re good in an emergency.’

He looked at her for a moment and then looked away. ‘Well, they’re both all right, and that’s all that matters.’ He glanced at his watch. ‘I’d better get going, or Logan will be grumbling that I haven’t finished my paperwork.’

Flora felt a flicker of desperation.

Something had changed between them and she didn’t know what it was.

She wanted to say something about Logan and Evanna. She wanted to show him that she understood how hard it must be for him, but he was cool and remote, discouraging any sort of personal intrusion into his thoughts or feelings. And, anyway, she didn’t want to have that conversation here, where they could be interrupted at any moment. ‘Are you busy tonight?’

‘Why do you ask?’

Her heart skipped. ‘Because I thought you might fancy skinny-dipping in the sea. It’s a great form of relaxation.’

He stood for a moment and then he turned. His ice-blue eyes were serious and there was no hint of a smile on his mouth. ‘I don’t think so.’

Her heart plummeted. ‘I’ll take off my bra and knickers this time, if that would swing your decision.’

‘No, Flora.’ His voice held none of its usual mockery. ‘I don’t think that’s a good idea.’