The Greek Villa: A beautiful and utterly addictive summer holiday rom com

Chapter 9

I call Josh immediately and tell him my news.

‘So, you did it then? Congratulations, I can’t wait to see it,’ he says enthusiastically.

‘Do you mean that? I’m heading over there for a long weekend with Evie next week. I mean, it’s going to take a lot of hard work, but when it’s done you must book a flight and come over. It might take a while to sort out a guest room though.’ I realise I am babbling away ten to the dozen and imagine him smiling at the other end of the phone.

‘It all sounds very exciting. I know how much you love Greece. Really, I’m happy for you. In Roda too, all those happy holiday memories from our childhood, as you said. I can’t wait to come over and see it.’

‘Thanks, Josh. You sound upbeat,’ I tell him, and he reveals he has just sold a top of the range BMW, so is in for a nice bit of commission.

‘Brilliant! Funny how money comes to you when you already have some,’ I say, thinking of our inheritance. ‘Ninety grand though? Who the hell has that kind of money to spend on a car?’ I’m aghast.

‘Erm, you,’ he reminds me. ‘It’s just that you chose to buy a house instead.’

‘Oh, yeah.’ I laugh. ‘And you.’

‘True enough, although I will probably spend mine sorting my life out,’ he says. ‘Oh, and I took your advice. I bought an easel and a top of the range painting set earlier. I’m going to the South Downs to paint on Sunday. George is having a day with Zoe’s parents.’

‘That sounds lovely.’

I don’t ask him why he and Zoe aren’t spending the day together.

We wrap up the call, then I remember Evie calling me earlier and return her call. She asks me if I fancy a trip into town tomorrow as she needs a few bits and pieces for our weekend away.

‘I wore my sandals out with all that walking we did last time, so need some new ones. Oh, and a new bikini. There won’t be much walking this time, I hope. I’m looking forward to a rest.’

‘I did tell you to pack your trainers last time,’ I remind her.

‘I know, but they are so unflattering.’

‘So are pig’s feet from walking around in fancy sandals.’

‘Oi, I don’t have pig’s feet.’ She laughs. ‘Although I take your point. I’ll buy some trainers. I think I saw some sparkly ones in a sale at Kurt Geiger.’

‘Anyway, there won’t be much walking this time, just a bit of sunbathing and shopping,’ I reassure her. ‘We’ll have an evening drink on the terrace of the apartment. Oh, there’s a great little taverna not far away that we must try too.’

Last time Evie came out we headed to the main street in Roda, shopping and eating at pretty restaurants overlooking the sea. It will be nice to explore the area around my new home again and I almost blurt that out before I stop myself.

‘Can’t wait.’

‘Me neither. See you tomorrow. Eleven o’clock sharp outside Flannels.’

It’s going to be a struggle keeping things from Evie, as we share everything, and I know I will be bursting to say something as soon as I see her.

A feeling of apprehension washes over me for a split second as I wonder whether I really have done the right thing. As Josh had reminded me, what do I know about builders, not to mention Greek law? I am going to be relying on my friend Thea to set me on the right path, which I am sure she will, so maybe there is no need to worry about that side of things. Other people buy houses abroad, don’t they? It’s all about having a positive attitude.

Besides, I’ve done it now, the house is mine and if I can’t do this type of thing while I’m young and with an unexpected inheritance, when can I do it, right?

I place the phone down and think about the people I really hope will agree that I have made a great decision as I try and get a little more work done.

After dinner, I close my laptop and make the short drive to my parents’ house to break the news.

Not before I take one more look at the house on the computer with more than a little bit of pride.