‘This is the summer boat. Flynn has winter boats too, fully enclosed, heating… all mod cons. Julia was telling me that they’re planning to run boat tours too, narrated excursions, and apparently a tour of the historical places around here, as well as seeking out the mansions of the rich and famous that line the waterways. But the ones I’m interested in the most are the Christmas booze cruise along the river for the adults, and Santa’s boat ride for the kids.’

‘Flynn’s definitely got it all worked out, hasn’t he? Boats for every season.’

They heard a bang below deck and then the door opened. ‘You!’ exclaimed Ella, recognising Roman, who she’d nearly knocked off his bike earlier that day.

A wide grin spread over Roman’s face. ‘Well, if it isn’t the woman with the dog that steals sausages.’ He shut the door behind him and stepped on to the deck.

Ella got her second proper look at him that day. He had a very elegant look; his Stirling-blue eyes matched the colour of his uniform and he tipped his sailor’s cap towards her. Roman’s eyes flashed instant warmth.

Ella heartily shook his hand and couldn’t help noticing that he was staring at her. ‘Pleased to meet you, again.’

‘Likewise.’ Roman didn’t take his eyes off her.

Ella turned and narrowed her eyes at Callie, who was grinning. ‘When I mentioned Roman, why didn’t you tell me he was the Captain of the boat?’

‘I thought you’d find out soon enough.’

‘And where are you from, with an accent like that?’ asked Roman, leading the way to the front of the boat.

‘Cheshire,’ replied Ella.

‘Wow! You’ve come mighty far for a ride on my vessel.’

Callie burst into fits of laughter. ‘Maybe you need to rephrase that.’

Roman looked completely at ease walking along the deck towards the front of the boat, whereas Ella let out a tiny squeal and grabbed on to the seats at the side of her. Roman looked back in Ella’s direction. ‘Here, let me help you.’ He grabbed her hand and caught her eye. Her whole body tingled at his touch, as she felt her pulse quicken and goose bumps rise to the surface of her skin. He led her to the seats just behind the wheel. ‘It gets a little rocky at times, but thankfully the waters aren’t that choppy today. The weather is in that in-between stage at the minute. Are you okay now?’

Ella sat down on the seat. ‘Yes, thank you.’