‘You may not feel it now, but whatever happened to you will make you stronger. See this straight line here?’ Dolores tilted the cup towards Ella. ‘This means your journey is going to become peaceful and full of happiness. So don’t give up on yourself just yet.’ Dolores offered her a warm, reassuring smile. ‘And you have an anchor. Not only does that mean good fortune in your work, but your love life too. Your happy ever after is not too far away.’

‘I’m not looking for anyone,’ shared Ella, thinking the last thing she needed in her life was another relationship.

‘And that’s when it happens – when you are least expecting it.’

‘But I do start my new job on Monday.’

‘There you go – this job is going to be good for you. It will make a difference to your life and it’s going to bring you opportunities. Thankfully, I can’t see an hourglass.’

‘And what would that mean?’

‘An hourglass indicates upcoming danger, but I can see a goat, which means you may encounter an enemy from the past – so have your wits about you! But on the whole, your move to Heartcross is going to be a good one. Embrace it!’ Dolores’ voice lifted.

Ella liked the idea of the move being a good one, but she certainly wasn’t interested in coming face to face with anyone from her past, and there was only one person who sprang to mind.

‘How long are you staying for?’ asked Dolores.

‘Six months, initially. And I really am not looking for love at the minute.’

‘Very wise,’ agreed Dolores. ‘Make time for you, but sometimes love smacks you in the face, right out of the blue.’

Dolores put the cup down and reached over and took both of Ella’s hands. She squeezed them tightly. ‘You’ve been through the mill.’

‘I have,’ agreed Ella, and briefly she shared with Dolores what had happened between her and Alex.

‘Time is a good healer, and you are in the right place.’ Dolores smiled at Ella with such warmth. ‘And McCartney and I will look after you.’ Dolores looked towards McCartney with adoration.

‘Thank you, Dolores. Once I’m distracted with work and I work out a way to pay off all the debts…’

‘And you will, dear. You’re a bright girl who has had a difficult time. This cup shows comfort and peace in your future. You will find happiness. I think you are going to be just fine, Ella.’

‘That’s just what I needed to hear. But in the meantime, I think I’ll put my heart on hold.’

‘Look after you, and the rest will come in time… And there’s one more thing. See that shape there?’

Ella leant forward to take a look.