“Yes.” She stacked them up. “I haven’t made up my mind exactly where yet. It will depend on what’s available but I’m leaving here tomorrow so my first job is to book somewhere else to stay. It’s lovely here but I need to find something a bit cheaper, especially if I’m going to be out for most of the day on tours.”

“Bookings are at a premium this time of year.”

“So I’ve discovered. I wanted to take a Dampier Peninsula tour. I’m keen to visit the pearl farm at Cygnet Bay too, but everything’s booked out for the next week and I’m not sure how much longer I’ll be staying.”

He nodded, then dropped his gaze back to the table where he twisted the water glass in his hand. She had time to take in the close crop of his dark hair and the neatly trimmed dark shadow of stubble across his jaw.

He glanced up, caught her studying him. “There’s more to the peninsula than pearls.”

She reached for her wine, took a sip. “Do you take tours there?”

“Sometimes, but it’s also home for me.” He paused as if he was pondering his next words. “I’m heading home tomorrow.”

“Home.” Natalie thought about the detailed map she’d studied of the peninsula. It was a large expanse. “Which part do you come from?”

“It’s a small community up the top of the peninsula.” He paused again. “If you want to see the real peninsula I could give you a ride.”

“To Cygnet Bay?”

“No, my country. My people are Bard.”

Natalie shifted in her seat. Was Gabe another Bazz? She hadn’t got that feeling about him.

“It’s a special place. Much better than here. Although the accommodation’s not as luxurious.”

“Are there pearls?”

He shook his head. “No need for pearls. Not far to Cygnet Bay though if you really want them.”

“Oh…no…I…” Natalie shook her head. “I was just curious what people did there.”

“Chill, mainly. That’s why I don’t stay for too long.” His face split in a wide grin. “There’s just the beach and kilometres of nothing. Too boring for me.”

Natalie thought about the pictures she’d seen of the peninsula. Lots of white sand, turquoise water and red dirt.

“Anyway, the offer’s there.” He stood, took a worn card from his wallet and put it on top of her brochures. “That’s my number. Call me if you want to come. I’m checking out of here at nine in the morning, going to the supermarket. If you’re coming with me you’ll need to get some supplies too. There’re shops but they’re basic and expensive.”

He thrust out his hand. She shook it.

“Nice to meet you, Natalie. Thanks for putting out the fire.” Once more he grinned. “Good night.”