Page 26 of A Summer House on Arran (Scottish Romances #3)

‘Isn’t this absolutely beautiful?’ said Olivia as she paused and turned round to look at the view behind. ‘It’s just so peaceful.’

They were following Logan up the path through woodland. The only sounds were the trickling burn and the sound of boots thunking over the soft ground. The track started to ascend a bit more steeply as it led them higher into the woods.

‘I know,’ said Kitty. ‘It’s like we’re in the middle of nowhere. It’s so very quiet and calm. The trees are incredible.’ She pointed behind them.

‘Did you know trees talk to each other?’ said Olivia thoughtfully as she thought of a book she had recently read.

‘What do you mean?’ said Kitty.

‘It’s called the wood-wide web.’ Olivia frowned as she tried to recall the exact facts. ‘They communicate through their roots and underground fungi. I guess there’s a lot more science to it than that. But I remember thinking how beautiful it was.’

Kitty nodded in agreement. ‘You wonder what they say to each other and what they have witnessed. They’re so solid and constant.’

‘I know. I do find it all quite fascinating,’ said Olivia. ‘It was one of those books that someone gave me, and it took me ages to pick up and read. I was so glad that I did. I found it quite comforting in a way.’

The women had slowed down slightly as they talked and looked ahead. A gap had formed between them and the rest of the group. Olivia could see Logan had turned to stop. He gave them a wave.

‘I think that’s our cue to get a move on,’ said Kitty with a laugh. ‘Who would have thought we would be the ones slowing everyone down. Come on, let’s up our pace a bit.’

The cool breeze felt lovely as they made their way up the track, the sunshine creating a dappled light on the springy forest floor.

Kitty raised an eyebrow. ‘Are you going to tell me how you know him then?’ She jerked her head towards Logan, who was now a few hundred metres away.

‘I met him the other night in the bar and was really rude.’

‘What, like on a date or something?’ asked Kitty in surprise.

‘No, nothing like that. It was the day you arrived, and I had gone to the pub for some space. Then I left my bag behind. When I went back to get it, he had found it and was standing there. I practically accused him of stealing it. I feel awful,’ she wailed.

Kitty nodded. ‘That would explain why there was a bit of “tension” when we arrived at the car park. I sensed a bit of an exchange of looks.’

Olivia groaned. ‘Was it that obvious?’

‘Not at all,’ she said dismissively. ‘Sometimes I read into things too much. I wondered if you might have had a romantic liaison — and I was trying to figure out how you’d found the time.’

‘Absolutely not,’ blurted Olivia, horrified at the thought. ‘No way.’

‘Oh, okay, I get the message,’ said Kitty, laughing.

‘ Shh , not another word just now,’ said Olivia as they neared the group. ‘Sorry, sorry, we got so absorbed in the scenery and talking that we didn’t realise we had trailed behind.’

Logan took a sip from his water bottle. ‘That’s okay. I just want to make sure we all stick together.’

Olivia sighed. She was going to have to say something and clear the air, otherwise it would be a long few days. But she was not good at saying sorry. She wished she could just send him a subliminal message like the trees did, then they could move on without actually having a conversation.

‘Okay, everyone,’ said Logan. ‘Let’s keep going.

I know it’s warm today, so do keep sipping your water.

I’ve also got some spray in my bag, so let me know if you need it.

Sometimes the cleggs — flies — can be bothersome.

We might be okay, but please shout if you find yourself waving your arms about to get rid of them.

The last thing we want is anyone toppling over. Shall we go?’

There was a chorus of agreement and Logan started walking. ‘Now, remember in the words of Al Green: let’s stay together .’

There were a few ripples of laughter. Kitty winked at Olivia and started humming, then singing random words to the tune. ‘I am out walking. By the waterfall, it’s where I want to be. Let’s stay together . . .’

Olivia shook her head in mock horror. ‘Oh please , now I am starting to regret having encouraged you to keep singing. I can see how this would annoy your son.’

Kitty continued humming a jaunty tune.

Olivia managed to crack a smile as she tried her best to humour Kitty, but as she listened to those words her stomach started to twist. She used to love that song but, unbeknown to Kitty, it had just unearthed a painful memory of Patrick.