Virgin Midwife, Playboy Doctor. Margaret McDonagh

      ‘As a woman. Chloe…’ She sighed, her smile reflecting both affection and a hint of exasperation. ‘I know you don’t think of yourself that way, but you are a woman. A beautiful woman. And Oliver has noticed.’

      ‘He can’t have!’

      Laughing again but kindly, Kate finished her lemonade. ‘Oliver reminds me of my late husband, James, when he was that age. The whole sexy surfer image and the warm charm, but with that underlying kindness and honesty.’

      ‘But what am I going to do?’ Chloe fretted, with increasing alarm.

      ‘It’s a new experience for you, I know, but why not try it?’ Surprisingly calm in comparison to her own raging emotions, Kate’s voice was gentle with understanding. ‘Spend time with Oliver. Get to know him. You might find you enjoy being with him.’

      With the heavy weight of her past preying on her mind, holding her in chains, Chloe stared at her friend, speechless with shock. How could Kate even suggest such a thing?

      ‘Oh, Chloe, my love!’ Chuckling, Kate set down her empty glass. ‘You should see your face!’ Sobering, the older woman reached out and took her hand. ‘I know a little about your past, but maybe this is the perfect time for you to finally put it behind you. I hate to see you missing out on such a big part of life. Outward images can be deceptive. There’s so much more to Oliver. Don’t judge him on rumour. He could be the perfect man to teach you to be a woman in the fullest sense of the word—the real woman you are inside—if only you would let him.’