‘And that’s saying something,’ said Kitty with a grin. ‘Ellen practically does this for a living back home.’
Kirsty gave her a quizzical look.
‘She works in a care home, she’s renowned for being the queen of cards.’
Kirsty and Amy chuckled.
When everyone had eaten all they could manage of sausages and burgers and salad and buns, Olivia tapped her spoon against her glass, which made a tinkling sound.
‘Speech,’ said James. ‘Everyone gather round.’
The group moved closer to Olivia, who had walked over to stand next to Kitty. ‘I just want to say a big thank you for welcoming us both this summer. The past six weeks have felt like six months. But in a good way,’ Olivia added hurriedly, to peals of laughter. ‘You have all embraced us with your warmth and friendship. I will always be grateful for that, and want to thank each and every one of you for making this summer so special. Not least because of the success of Hop and Scotch last night. That was a real team effort.’
‘Hear, hear!’ said Edie, raising her glass.
‘Cheers,’ said Granny Margaret. ‘This has been some weekend, eh? Olivia, just wait till you come to Glasgow. You’ve not seen anything yet.’ There was a ripple of laughter.
Olivia gulped. ‘That sounds ominous.’
‘Och, don’t worry, love. You’ll have a great time.’
Kitty looked at the smiling faces around her. ‘I just want to echo what Olivia said. Thank you all. It has been the best summer, and I can highly recommend a summer house share.’
Just then Kirsty caught her attention. ‘Dad’s got something for you,’ she said.
Alex moved forward with a package for her. When she opened it, she gasped with pleasure. ‘Did you do this, Alex?’
‘Yes, dear.’
It was a watercolour of the bay in Brodick. ‘It’s perfect. I will always treasure it and think about the great times we had in class.’
He beamed with pleasure. ‘I wanted to give you something to remember Arran.’
She felt her voice crack with emotion. ‘I will never forget any of this, or any of you. And don’t worry. I’ll be back before you know it.’
* * *
It was after nine when everyone finally left, including Logan, who had an early start the next morning. He hugged Olivia tightly. ‘Until the next time,’ he said.
‘You bet. You’re not getting rid of me that fast.’
He drew Kitty to him and hugged and kissed her. ‘Until we meet again,’ he said with a laugh.
‘Indeed. I will see you in Perth at the weekend.’ They were meeting at his sister’s for lunch, then having a night in Dunkeld before she drove back to Rosemarkie.
‘That’s us offski too, girls. Thank you for a lovely day and for a brilliant weekend,’ said Bella. ‘Liv, we’ll see you in Glasgow soon. Be ready to paint the town red.’
Kitty glanced at Olivia, who looked fairly petrified.
‘Bye for now,’ they chorused as they disappeared down the path. ‘Logan, are you coming with us or not?’
Logan also looked mildly terrified. He looked at Kitty and shrugged. ‘Wish me luck.’ He kissed Kitty one last time and then walked after the trio.
Ellen nudged her. ‘You have got it bad,’ she said, grinning. Her eyes were bright, and it was great seeing her looking so relaxed. A weekend away had clearly done her the world of good.
‘I do. I’m not going to lie,’ said Kitty, her heart swelling.
‘This has to be the best summer I’ve ever had,’ admitted Olivia, who sat down on one of the patio chairs and closed her eyes.
