Passport to Happiness

Tilly looks at me in shock. ‘With Jools? Gosh, no way. He’d do my absolute head—’

I cut her off, slightly irritated. ‘Obviously I didn’t mean Jools, I know he’s definitely not your type. Spencer, I mean.’

‘Oh Spence.’ She suddenly looks at me curiously. ‘Why? Are you interested in him?’

I feel heat creep into my face. For some reason I’m suddenly embarrassed, as if I’ve been caught doing something I shouldn’t.

‘Oh my gosh, you like him, don’t you!’ She’s smiling broadly at me and shaking her head in disbelief. ‘I just can’t believe that of all the people I’ve introduced you to, he’s the one you’re interested in. Mr cauliflower ear.’ She laughs and throws her head back. ‘How funny.’

Crossing my arms across my chest, I smile at her jest. ‘Well, I’m pleased you think it’s funny. So, have you or not?’

She splutters dramatically. ‘Bleurgh, Spence? Of course not! He’s like a baby brother. He’s also a bit pathetic. You might as well date a wet sponge.’

‘Don’t be so mean. He came across as really manly to me. And I assume he plays rugby so surely that means he’s a bit rough and ready.’

‘Yeah rough and ready for a soft play centre.’ She finds herself hilarious and I have to wait until she finishes laughing to continue. ‘In seriousness, he’s a good guy. He wouldn’t do anything to hurt you. Just may be a bit too dull for you, in my opinion. But feel free to go ahead. I got the impression he liked you, so I doubt you’ll have to wait long for him to seek you out. You are fresh meat on this island.’

‘OK, that’s good to know.’ Unable to hide my delight, I feel the beginnings of a smile playing on my lips. I may have made a vow to concentrate on myself but there’s no harm in having a crush, especially on someone that Tilly says is a good guy. I’m perfectly aware that love isn’t the answer to my ultimate happiness right now, it’s more about personal fulfilment. Even if someone does happen to appear, I’m no longer foolish enough to let it distract me from the main thing I came here for; creating a new life and finding that passion I’ve been missing.