Love Islands: Red-Hot Sunsets. Jane Porter

rapid Italian to the consultant, the concerned lines on his face quickly smoothing over in reaction to whatever was being said on the other end.

      ‘All’s gone according to plan,’ he said. ‘But, had she not reached the hospital when she did, then it would have been quite a different story. Now, why don’t you wait here while I have a word with some of her family? I won’t be long. I’ll also arrange for your clothes and possessions to be transported to the villa.’ He looked at her, head tilted to one side, then he patted his pocket. ‘You can call your parents, if you like,’ he said gruffly. ‘I’ve been checking your phone, and I see that they’ve taken you at your word and not texted, but I expect they’d like to hear from you.’

      He handed over the phone and her eyes shone, because more than anything else this demonstrated that he finally trusted her, and she found that that meant a great deal to her.

      ‘What can I say to them?’ she asked, riding high on the fact that she was no longer under suspicion. A barrier between them had been crossed and that felt good in the wake of what they had shared.

      ‘Use your discretion,’ Lucas told her drily. ‘But it might be as well not to mention too many names, not that I think anything can go wrong with the deal at this stage. It’s a hair’s breadth away from being signed.’ He stood up, leaving her with her mobile phone, and it felt like the greatest honour bestowed on her possible. ‘I’ll see you shortly and then we’ll be on our way.’