Callie nodded. ‘We’ll catch you later then.’

‘You sure will,’ he replied, catching Ella’s eye, and immediately her stomach gave a tiny flip.

‘At least my motion sickness has subsided.’

‘Sometimes it’s mind over matter,’ reassured Roman, stepping back on board.

As Ella began to walk down the jetty, she was sure she could feel him still watching her. Taking in the view all around, she hovered and watched the waterfall trickle down the side of the mountain. ‘This place is so romantic.’

‘Maybe you should be booking a romantic meal with Roman,’ Callie came straight to the point and lightly nudged Ella’s elbow. ‘It might do you good to go and have some fun…’

‘I couldn’t afford to go out on a date. Every penny I earn goes towards those credit card bills.’

‘There are dates that don’t cost money – walking along the river, picnics in Primrose Park… You could even sail out to the coast. Flynn has a selection of boats.’

‘I’ve only just met the guy and, judging by my track record…’

‘I get that,’ replied Callie, linking her arm through Ella’s. ‘But I’d say, the way he was looking at you, he’s already smitten. Mark my words.’

Ella was flattered, she really was. Roman was definitely her type – more her type than Alex had ever been, in fact. ‘Never say never. Dolores predicted I would meet someone when I least expect it. And he wasn’t wearing a wedding ring,’ she added.

Callie’s eyes widened. ‘So you noticed that.’

They carried on walking towards the entrance of the restaurant.

‘Just wait until you see inside.’ Callie pushed open the door to the restaurant and Ella stepped through. ‘What do you think?’ Callie asked.

The inside of the building was just as breath-taking as the outside, with its shimmering central dining bar and signature large windows overlooking the bay. There was beautiful oak panelling and striking art hanging on the walls that gave it a warm and luxurious feel. The fifteen tables were spaced to allow a sense of privacy, and in the corner of the dining area stood an ebony baby grand piano. Each and every table was laid with a crisp white linen, cutlery and the finest crystal glasses. Ella was lost for words at its beauty.

‘Come on, I’ll take you through to the kitchen and introduce you to Gianni, the chef.’ Callie led Ella through the dining area, which was mercifully quiet, unlike the kitchen, which was a hive of activity.

At the far end of the room Ella noticed four waiters gathered around a table.

‘This is the daily briefing – it happens before every shift. Gianni hammers out the finer points from the menu,’ whispered Callie, as they stood at the back of the room and observed.