Sea JEWELS

On a break from the city, Polly hadn't expected to find treasure

- Barbara Kilpatrick

You've always wanted to visit a Scottish island, Polly. Now's your chance.

'What do you mean?'

'Use my holiday cottage. It's available for the next few weeks,' Jen said. 'You need to recharge your batteries, escape from the city.'

'That would be amazing!' I hugged Jen tightly. 'A break would be so good after the last few months.' I felt my spirits lifting. 'I think a week should be enough.'

As the ferry pulled into the harbour, I heard the cry of seagulls above and the smell of fresh sea air and seaweed filled my nostrils. For a moment I simply stood and breathed it all in, my shoulders relaxing. 'Thanks, Jen,' I thought.

A neat row of fishermen's cottages lined the harbour, their red pan-tiled roofs contrasting with the whitewashed walls. I headed along the front looking for Jen's cottage. At the end of the row I saw nothing except a boatyard. Just as I was about to retrace my steps a man came out of the yard.

'You look lost. Can I help?' I noticed his sea-green eyes and kind smile. 'I'm looking for Sea View Cottage. I thought it was near here, I said, feeling a little flustered.

'Just round the next bay – it's not very far. Are you here on holiday?'