Quickly Ella turned towards Flynn. ‘I didn’t just give myself a promotion,’ she said, trying to justify the job title. ‘Brett just came out with it.’ She must have looked stricken because Flynn soon jumped in to put her mind at rest.

‘It’s absolutely fine, that’s exactly what you are, and a well-deserved job title at that – and maybe a pay increase for the next week or two.’

‘I’ll take that! Thank you,’ Ella said, grinning.

After Nancy had finished talking to Brett, she said to Ella. ‘You’re a credit to this place! On the build-up to the evening we would love to interview yourself and Dolores. If you will have us?’

‘Of course!’ replied Ella, feeling her self-confidence building. Another interview! She was actually beginning to feel like a superstar herself.

As soon as Nancy and the crew left, Callie opened her arms wide and pulled her friend in for a hug. ‘I told you Heartcross would be the making of you – you are shining!’

‘And Callie is right, you’re worth your weight in gold. This is great publicity for The Lakehouse and we have you and Dolores to thank for it.’ Flynn looked down at his phone. ‘Notifications are already coming in thick and fast to the Facebook page, and a lot of people are messaging to see if there is a pre-order route for tickets.’

‘And listen to that,’ remarked Callie. ‘The restaurant phone hasn’t stopped ringing since the interview aired.’

‘Ella, you are magic,’ said Flynn before disappearing back inside to take a call.

‘The boat’s about to leave.’ Callie pointed to Wilbur who was about to untie the boat. ‘Wilbur… wait,’ Callie bellowed down the jetty, and he tipped his cap in acknowledgement. ‘What are your plans for the rest of the day?’ she asked, turning to Ella.

‘I’m meeting Roman to organise what songs the guests are singing, then we can work out the playlist and timings.’ Ella checked her watch. ‘And I promised Dolores I’d pop back in and see her. I hope she’s as happy as Flynn.’

‘I’m sure she will be, now run! Wilbur is waiting for you.’

‘Thanks, Callie,’ Ella said as she turned to her friend.

‘What for?’

‘For giving me this opportunity. Somehow the past few months are already paling into insignificance.’