‘Yes.’ Hannah picked up the phone but didn’t recognise the number. Curiosity won over manners. ‘Sorry, will you excuse me?’ she said to Meredith and Izzy. Unknown numbers freaked her out a little. She knew that there was a strong chance it was some sales call but at the same time, it could be a policeman or a hospital.

‘Hello, Hannah Campbell speaking.’

‘Hannah!’ She grinned at the sound of her old university friend’s familiar bellow. ‘It’s Aidan. When are we seeing you?’

‘Aidan,’ her tone warmed with the delight of hearing his voice. ‘How are you? I’m so sorry I haven’t called yet, it’s been so busy.’

‘Don’t you fret. I’ve got you now,’ he replied. ‘What are you doing tomorrow? Come for lunch.’

She laughed. Same old Aidan. ‘I’d love to. Text me your address.’

‘I will. Twelve-thirty? See you then.’ With that Aidan disconnected the phone and found Meredith and Izzy staring at her, full of curiosity.

‘He’s an old university friend and colleague. We worked together in Manchester and then he came back to Tralee to take over his father’s practice.’

‘Oh, that’s lovely,’ said Meredith. ‘An old flame?’

‘Huh! No. Just a very good friend. He’s married to another friend of ours from uni.’

‘That’ll do you good. It’s a long stretch to be away from home,’ said Meredith. ‘Although I’m quite enjoying being with other people. It gets quite lonely on your own when you’ve been used to a house full of people for so long.’ Meredith gave them a sad smile and then perked up a little. ‘Although as much fun as it was to spend the evening with you, I’m going to have to head up the hill to bed. I agreed I’d meet Alan at nine and… well, I’d rather not look like too knackered. I do have some pride.’

‘Atta girl,’ said Izzy. ‘I’ll come with you. Thanks so much for having us, Hannah. To be honest I was feeling a little bit homesick, and this was just what I needed. Not that I am missing home’– she pulled a face and Hannah knew she was referring to her mother – ‘but I just felt a bit… lonely isn’t the word but a long way from home. Does that make sense?’

Hannah smiled at her and then realised she didn’t agree. The homely cottage with its restful coloured walls, the little vases of flowers and votives of candles, cushions, and throws, and charming pictures of contemporary watercolour landscapes was a world away from her own apartment and she fallen in love with her new surroundings. Her furnishings were strictly utilitarian – in fact, the only cushion she owned – a bright-pink one with a beaming pug on the front – had been a gift from her sister.