Книга - The Riviera
The Riviera
Karen Aldous
The journey is only as good as its end…It’s been a hard journey, but Lizzie Lambert’s life is a Provençal dream come true. Her business is wildly successful, and with her little boy and the love of her life, Cal, she is making a beautiful home on the vineyard for their blended family.But when Cal goes to America to support his son through a teenage crisis, it becomes clear the kid’s not the only one with some growing up to do: Cal’s glamorous ex-wife wants to get her claws in him again. As Cal spends longer and longer away, Lizzie wonders, was it all too good to be true?Escape to Provence with Karen Aldous’ The Riviera, the perfect read for an idyllic summer. ‘A story of relationships, love and the importance of family, a romantic tale that leaves the reader with a glow.’ – Postcard Reviews‘I could have been lost in this book for months on end and I wouldn't have noticed the days slipping by…’ – Becca’s Books‘Light, easy to read and entertaining, perfect for a summer holiday read.’ – Portybelle‘A perfect book for these final summer days, to indulge in with a glass of wine or two.’ – Paris Baker (Amazon Reviewer)‘Escapism with more than a touch of reality…Karen Aldous is an author that you need on “auto order”!’ – Crooks on Books‘A great holiday read – quick, easy and entertaining!’ – Ginger Cat Blog
The journey is only as good as its end…
It’s been a hard journey, but Lizzie Lambert’s life is a Provençal dream come true. Her business is wildly successful, and with her little boy and the love of her life, Cal, she is making a beautiful home on the vineyard for their blended family.
But when Cal goes to America to support his son through a teenage crisis, it becomes clear the kid’s not the only one with some growing up to do: Cal’s glamorous ex-wife wants to get her claws in him again. As Cal spends longer and longer away, Lizzie wonders, was it all too good to be true?
Escape to Provence with Karen Aldous’The Riviera, the perfect read for an idyllic summer.
Also by Karen Aldous (#ulink_120d1341-b7ed-5fce-a6e8-fa2170fd2c95)
The Vineyard
The Chateau
The Riviera
Karen Aldous
Copyright (#ulink_fdd116f1-c5c9-5798-bfab-6f167bbacaea)
HQ
An imprint of HarperCollinsPublishers Ltd.
1 London Bridge Street
London SE1 9GF
First published in Great Britain by HQ in 2015
Copyright © Karen Aldous 2015
Karen Aldous asserts the moral right to be identified as the author of this work.
A catalogue record for this book is available from the British Library.
This novel is entirely a work of fiction. The names, characters and incidents portrayed in it are the work of the author’s imagination. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, events or localities is entirely coincidental.
All rights reserved under International and Pan-American Copyright Conventions. By payment of the required fees, you have been granted the non-exclusive, non-transferable right to access and read the text of this e-book on-screen. No part of this text may be reproduced, transmitted, downloaded, decompiled, reverse engineered, or stored in or introduced into any information storage and retrieval system, in any form or by any means, whether electronic or mechanical, now known or hereinafter invented, without the express written permission of HarperCollins.
E-book Edition © July 2015 ISBN: 9781474036504
Version date: 2018-09-19
KAREN ALDOUS
Inspired by novelists such as Jilly Cooper and Barbara Taylor Bradford, many moons ago, Karen never lost her passion for writing. It always got put on the back burner though with stories and articles fuelling the Aga rather than popped in the mail box. Gaining life experience and confidence has been crucial though, so she feels raising her three children along with being in the property and travel industries have not only brought material for her writing but have allowed her to indulge in her favourite pastimes.
Karen currently lives on the edge of the North Downs in Kent and owns a website design business so is able to use her skills and creativity but she craves nothing other than earning a living from writing romance. Her dream! Her friends call it Karen’s world, and why not? Her teachers always said she had an overactive imagination so it makes sense to put it to good use!
She still gets a kick from travelling and seeking that property bargain but her husband and family, particularly her three grandchildren, continue to steal her affections – along with Bertie, her golden lab. There’s barely enough time to go round, she admits, but their love and support never wavers and without them, and that from fellow writers at ‘The Write Place’ and the RNA, her aspirations may never have flourished!
Special thanks and best wishes to Lucy Gilmour, my Editor, Charlotte Mursell, Clio Cornish, Victoria Oundjian and all the wonderful Team at HQ Digital.
Thank you also to all the beautiful establishments featured in this book - you may not know it but you’ve provided my characters with some truly memorable moments to share with the readers.
To Glyn for your constant love and strength xx
Contents
Cover (#ue0a06388-1218-56b1-817d-c183c8b00863)
Blurb (#u7a9dcabc-a2a1-5254-ade6-62983358e20d)
Book List (#u490cb1c6-ee7b-5c5a-8199-28e4fd36b273)
Title Page (#u06c2c2a5-d9da-530f-9c23-b2695d0f5a56)
Copyright (#ua872c3b4-323f-56a3-b9e7-b2a2f8704529)
Author Bio (#uf5293358-38c0-5f85-a392-cf65cb5b2a35)
Acknowledgement (#ubc702fa0-ff41-586b-a259-7ab2ac564ee1)
Dedication (#u408b0e75-3cf1-5ccb-9ca3-378363378f14)
Chapter 1 (#u931fd12d-fa3d-5c6d-89c5-2ee2aac5dac8)
Chapter 2 (#u4141355b-8007-501e-9c60-a64c6cbea660)
Chapter 3 (#u0d72c849-6dc4-5189-8681-d4b9170f2616)
Chapter 4 (#u3b387a25-3f78-5d55-be5a-39715923f807)
Chapter 5 (#u3712f156-40e3-5797-9a84-01ce9291fbae)
Chapter 6 (#u3d7efa0d-d48a-5033-91ea-495e08375062)
Chapter 7 (#u4eea2f9e-65d4-5f44-b2c0-6270f79f1061)
Chapter 8 (#uf2e14d9a-9fa7-57d1-b763-d626ee1449dd)
Chapter 9 (#u90cd5c2a-cc13-5955-b37d-9bf62eb2cda4)
Chapter 10 (#u187396d0-0d1b-5726-b0c8-902037ee52b3)
Chapter 11 (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter 12 (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter 13 (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter 14 (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter 15 (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter 16 (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter 17 (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter 18 (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter 19 (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter 20 (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter 21 (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter 22 (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter 23 (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter 24 (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter 25 (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter 26 (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter 27 (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter 28 (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter 29 (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter 30 (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter 31 (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter 32 (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter 33 (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter 34 (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter 35 (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter 36 (#litres_trial_promo)
Extract (#litres_trial_promo)
Endpages (#litres_trial_promo)
About the Publisher
Chapter 1 (#ulink_c124ccda-7058-5a82-9f4f-10ce8585fcdf)
Lizzie Lambert rushed from the bedroom tailing Cal McLaren. She had never seen him move so fast.
‘You admitted yourself you thought Kelly was a drama queen,’ Lizzie said.
‘It was you who said she was a drama queen.’ He charged across the living area to his laptop on the dining table and tossed Lizzie an accusing glance.
‘Yes, but you agreed,’ she said glaring at him. He was obviously concerned. This wasn’t the time to begin an argument. They’d not argued in the four months they’d been together. She peered down at her feet on the cool marble floor wishing she had grabbed her slippers.
‘OK, so usually she is,’ Cal conceded hauling out an iron-framed chair. Lizzie squeezed into the one beside him, her eyes roving over his taut body and approving of the pert bum snuggled into his CK briefs. She waited as he opened the laptop and hit the start button. He tapped his fingers on the table as the machine fired up. ‘Come on.’
‘What do you think the email means?’ Lizzie asked, scooping chestnut brown hair back with her fingers and tying it up loosely. Then realised the stupidity of her question.
‘I really don’t know. I want to check on here in case I’ve missed something on my phone screen,’ he told her entering his password and clicking a few times. ‘Oh come on.’ He scratched his head and checked the time. ‘It must be about six o’clock in the evening in Nantucket.’
‘Yes, I should think so,’ Lizzie said pausing to check her own phone. ‘Yes, it’s now ten after midnight.’
Faintly listening, Cal clicked once more at the brief email. ‘Here it is.’
Dad,
Please, please, come and get me. Take me away from this horrible town! I can’t talk about it here but come quick. I can’t stay.
Jack
‘Nothing else,’ he said catching his breath and scrolling his mouse down to check he’d not missed any other emails. ‘That was sent an hour ago. Shit. I’ll ring.’ He then quickly typed ‘On my way. Xxx’ and pressed send.
‘Bloody hell. He sounds desperate,’ Lizzie said gazing at dark-grey sumptuous eyes but observing a panic in them she’d rarely seen. Feeling the urge to hold him close, she covered his free trembling hand with hers, yearning to brush his dark hair with her fingers.
‘Yes, very. I need to go.’ He finished punching the screen on his phone and pushed back his chair, swiping his hand away as he stood. Lizzie’s eyes followed him as he mindlessly began pacing towards the full-length terrace doors and back, phone tight to his ear. She scampered to the kitchen and reached for the kettle. She stopped.
‘Kelly, it’s Cal, can I speak to Jack?’ he asked.
Lizzie remained still gripping the kettle in her hand. Teenagers were such vulnerable creatures. It didn’t make sense. Jack seemed so happy just two months ago when they visited him at the New Year. Cal’s brows, she observed, were joining up. She feared for him as his eyes turned steely hard and his face paled.
Cal signalled to the pen and Lizzie grabbed it at the ready and wrote down the number as he called out.
‘And you’ve no idea why he’s been quiet or hiding away?’ he snarled at Kelly. Lizzie saw his face scowl as his head shook.
Finishing the call, he picked up the bookmark and tapped in the long number. Lizzie followed his figure as he paced almost naked back and forth. Staying silent, she walked over and checked the door to Thierry and Marie-Claire’s rooms the other side of the living room. It was slightly ajar, so she gently pulled it to. Cal’s face was now almost white as he finished and hit the end button with his thumb.
‘Jack and his friend have gone out apparently, and they don’t have a phone. Shit! I don’t like this. I’m booking a flight.’
Lizzie, wanting to comfort him, snuggled up to him as he searched the internet on his phone. His skin felt clammy and his heart was drumming into her ear as it nestled into his chest. His left arm pulled her close as he brushed his lips on her forehead.
Feeling his fear penetrate through her, she said, ‘I can come with you. I’d like to help.’
After a pause, he kissed her forehead once more. ‘I’d love you to, but I think I need some one-to-one time with Jack. Maybe, if and when I get to the bottom of it, you can join us. It wouldn’t be fair on you or Thierry if I’m not around.’
Lizzie’s face dropped as a wave of gloom swept through her. She couldn’t bear the thought of being separated from Cal. Since he’d moved into her apartment after their trip to the States, they hadn’t been apart. It had been nearly two months of utter bliss but she suspected she would react exactly the same if it were Thierry.
Cal scrolled down the screen at his travel options. ‘Jee-sus. OK. I’ll drive to Lyon.’
‘What?’ Lizzie stepped back.’
‘Oh, times, prices, options. Right. I’ve got this one at seven, so I think it best if I get packing now and be on my way,’ Cal said, confirming his booking.
‘Now! Right, well…do you want me to drive you?’
‘Pretty lady, you go back to bed. Give those beautiful green eyes some rest. I’ll have time to park, collect my ticket and, yeah, all good thank you.’ He got to his feet, easing her up beside him. ‘Actually, I’d love a coffee if you don’t mind while I make a start packing. And, the biggest goodbye kiss you can muster,’ he said taking her arm and drawing her into his torso. He slid his fingers through her long chestnut hair as Lizzie allowed his lusty scent to linger in her. ‘I need to go to him. I’ll be back as soon as I can.
‘Yes, oh I understand. Oh, the house. Annatia and Jean-Luc. You’ve booked them in for Friday. It’s only some renovation ideas. Shall I hold them off until you get back?’ Lizzie asked, knowing how excited he was to have now finally got the keys and how much he was looking forward to visiting his very own Provençal house and vineyard. His life-long dream.
‘Well, why don’t you go along and show them around? The keys are still in the envelope, I’ll put them on the hook.’
‘I don’t know the first thing about what your plans are. I’d rather we go together. We’ll postpone it. I’m sure they won’t mind.’ Lizzie kissed him lightly on the lips feeling disappointment hiding behind them.
‘Our plans. Don’t you forget that! Besides, I barely looked at the house. It looked about the right size, but I was focusing on the vineyards.’ As he held her, his seductive eyes bored hungrily into her before his lips pressed harder onto hers, his arms wrapping tightly around her sending whirls of lust through her. Before she knew it, he’d lifted her and placed her on the bed, firmly closing the door behind him.
‘Just remember I love you,’ he told her stroking her now loosened hair.
‘I love you too,’ she told him, finding his lips and savouring every second she could as they made love. She would miss him dreadfully. As Cal pulled away, she held onto a lock of hair. She sighed. ‘You stay safe. I couldn’t bear anything happening to you. I just hope everything goes well with Jack.’
‘I’m sure it will be fine. God, I hope it will. Just for once, I feel he really needs me,’ Cal said jumping up from the bed and sliding into the shower room. ‘I can’t let him down.’
Lizzie nodded. ‘You won’t.’ She padded out to the kitchen and pressed the button on the kettle and shot back for her slippers.
‘So,’ Cal added switching on the shower, ‘why don’t you meet Annatia and Jean-Luc anyway so that they can work on some ideas whilst I’m away? At least you can get the ball rolling.’
‘I just don’t like to feel I’m interfering in your project. And you have only just got the keys. It can wait.’
‘Lizzie, it’s not mine it’s ours,’ Cal shouted from the shower. ‘It will be our home.’
A shard of warmth shot to her heart. Our home, he’d said. Not only was Cal the most amazing man she’d ever met, but he just happened to have bought a sizeable vineyard with a house; a home which could potentially be for their future family. What more could a girl want, she asked herself. To love, be loved and to share, to belong. She could only pray Jack was OK then Cal would be happy and return soon.
‘I can wait,’ she repeated as he appeared wrapping a towel around his naked body. Criminal! ‘Heesh,’ her breath escaped trying to resist. ‘I’d rather we share the occasion.’
‘I’ll leave it up to you,’ he said softly, his eyes beckoning her.
‘Coffee.’ She turned before she stalled him further.
Once Cal was packed, and after a long lingering kiss, Lizzie waved him goodbye from her apartment terrace wiping a stray tear from her cheek. There was no way she could go back to bed right now. Her own heart was still thumping with fear. Whether it was fear for Jack and his crisis, for Cal, having to rush to Nantucket, or fear for herself now alone, she couldn’t be sure. Quite possibly it was all three. Stupid, she told herself. You’ve got Thierry here safely tucked up in bed, a child you’ve had from birth. Cal will probably be a few days at the most and he only sees Jack twice a year.
Stepping back into the living room, she pushed the solid-glass terrace door to. She began to imagine what was going on in Cal’s mind. He’d never had much say in his son’s life and he had to trust that Kelly and her husband Reuben made the right decisions on a daily basis. She couldn’t imagine how Cal must have felt discovering his pregnant girlfriend was marrying someone else. And to think Kelly was trying to pretend it was Reuben’s child. That was just such an evil thing to do. Ironic really, she had always imagined herself cruel for failing to reveal her pregnancy to Thierry’s father about their son, but at least she had good reason. Cal was not a fucked-up druggy like Anton. Hmm, huge difference, she consoled herself.
Having fallen asleep on the sofa, it was Thierry who woke her. First she’d felt the tiny fingers tickling her neck then, as he wasn’t getting the response he expected, he climbed up and jumped onto her torso beginning to bounce. His nanny, Marie-Claire was close behind.
‘Thierry, no.’ Marie-Claire cussed him in her stern French accent and reached out to him.
Lizzie forced her eyes open and swung her body round. ‘It’s OK, Marie-Claire, I’m sure it must be time to get up. Hello, my darling,’ she said hugging Thierry to her chest and then tickling him back. He chuckled, displaying shiny milk teeth.
‘It’s seven-fifteen. I’ll make coffee,’ Marie-Claire said, turning towards the kitchen.
‘Oh lovely, thank you, and, just one. Cal had to catch a flight this morning.’
Thierry’s laughing eyes suddenly frowned. ‘Where’s Cal gone?’
‘He has gone on an aeroplane to see Jack. Do you remember Jack?’
Thierry’s eyes opened wide. ‘Jack, my friend Jack. Can we go and see Jack? And Harry and Bea?’
‘Yes, maybe. His daddy has some important work to do and then he’ll let us know. What do you think would make Jack smile? Would you like to draw Jack a picture to take with us?’
Thierry jumped up with a new burst of energy and waited as Lizzie unfurled slender legs from the sofa and took his hand to lead him to the dining table. After their awful year last year, she prayed that this would just be a minor incident. She felt so blessed right now.
‘Yes, I can draw Sulley and Mike. Jack likes Monsters Inc.,’ he said, climbing up on a chair.
Lizzie giggled knowing how much her son adored the film. ‘Of course he does. I’ll get you some paper to make a start. He’ll want one of each character you know.’
Yawning, Lizzie collected her phone as she uncovered Thierry’s colouring pencils and some fresh A4 sheets from her printer. She saw the text message from Cal. He’d obviously got his flight, and on time.
‘We’ll do just one now because Marie-Claire will have your breakfast ready and be taking you to nursery soon.’
After a quick shower, Lizzie arrived at Beauté Dedans and Sophie, her best friend and business partner, was just unlocking the door.
‘Morning, Soph. Aren’t you supposed to be at school today?’ Lizzie always called it school but Dr Sophie Pitou was not only the cosmetic surgeon at their new beauty clinic, she also lectured and continued research at the University two days a week.
Sophie hurled a shining smile. ‘Yes. I’m running late but I need to collect a few photographs of a client I worked on last week. It seems the procedure I carried out, based on my trials, of course, has caught some industry attention.’
‘What, in a good way?’ Lizzie held the door as Sophie dropped the keys in her bag.
Sophie grinned. ‘Yes. It’s quite exciting. I’ll show you quickly,’ she said racing up the stairs. ‘Won’t be a mo.’
Lizzie switched on the lights and immediately she saw her reflection in Betty, her cleaner’s, highly polished window and mirrors. The familiar freshly used cleaning products wafted to Lizzie’s nostrils as she placed her bag down on the chair behind the reception desk. She quickly checked Lucie’s call list just in case anyone needed contacting but couldn’t see anything particularly urgent.
‘I’ll be in the kitchen,’ she shouted up.
Sophie rushed in behind her as she poured hot water into a cup.
‘I took these in stages and it probably won’t mean much to you, but this was how I Pitou’d her.’
‘Ha! The Pitou method, your own.’ She peered at the photo, frowning. ‘Wow, no, it doesn’t quite make sense, but maybe when you get more time you can explain it.’
‘Anyway,’ Sophie flicked to the latest, ‘this is the photo the client selfie’d yesterday. I showed my professor who has been in touch with his associate in Los Angeles. I think he must have been up half the night. Apparently the guy is really impressed and has asked to see these.’
‘Oh Sophie, brilliant, well done.’
‘Thank you. Anyway, I’d better get going. Are you and Cal around later, a drink or something to eat?’
Lizzie shook her head as she placed the milk back in the fridge. ‘No. Well, I am. Cal’s flown over this morning to see Jack. Jack’s not happy and he’s gone to find out what it’s all about.’
Sophie pulled a face. ‘Ooh, hope it sorts itself out. Teenagers eh! Wouldn’t want to be back there.’
‘No, me neither,’ Lizzie said, leaning on the worktop and observing her friend.
Sophie tucked her photos into her bag and chewed on her lip. ‘Look, I know it’s early days, but I was thinking if I do have to go to the States, hopefully it wouldn’t be for long, but I wondered how you’d feel if I enlisted some help. I mean, I wouldn’t want to leave you high and dry and there’s a few really good people I know. I thought I should be prepared, just to keep everything ticking over.’
‘Proper little girl scout aren’t you? Fine, yes. If you feel they are up to your standard.’
‘Of course. I’m not saying it would come to that but…’
‘Go, you’ll be late.’ Lizzie stepped forward and hugged her friend. ‘Sounds exciting. I hope it goes well.’
‘Good. I’ll speak to Angus today, just prime him.’
‘Angus, a man?’
Chapter 2 (#ulink_6a10b16f-bfe8-5115-893c-2be1148eeb83)
Cal paced anxiously at the back of the boarding hall sipping yet another coffee. The flight to Boston had been long. What hadn’t gone through his head the last few hours? He was dizzy through lack of sleep but that hour he had dozed off had made him feel even worse. Now he’d been waiting another hour he swore he would lose his mind. He just wanted to see his son. Ensure he was safe. The frustration was his phone had lost power and needed charging. In his panic he’d taken it off charge and forgotten to recharge. Finally, the doors opened and he boarded the next flight to Nantucket. Jack would soon be home from school.
He let out a sigh of relief as the taxi turned into Main Street and pulled up outside Jack’s home. Kelly and Reuben owned a traditional New England, grey-shingled house fronted by the obligatory white picket fence and, although built only seven years, it blended well with the seventeenth-century properties lining Main Street. The driver edged to the kerb just missing one of numerous elm trees still naked of any buds.
‘Thanks,’ he said handing the driver a twenty dollar note.
Kelly pulled back the door just as he rang the bell. Immediately panic struck him. The girl he once loved was red-eyed and bare of her usual make-up. She heaved deeply before choking out the words.
‘Jack hasn’t come home, I don’t know where…’ Her voice broke away as she sobbed.
Any blood that was left in his cheeks was now sapped right out. Cal swallowed hard, blinking back tears. ‘Kelly, why didn’t you collect him last night?’
‘I was alone here with the kids. Reuben was still in New York. He’s on a flight home now. But, Jack often walks or cycles back on his own. It’s just along the road.’
‘Christ.’ Cal rubbed his forehead. ‘So where had he been? When was he last seen and where? Have you searched the house, the garage, the garden?’
‘Hell, yeah,’ Kelly snapped rubbing her eyes and nose, then standing back she ushered him in. He followed blindly, waiting for her response. His instinct was to run through the house and rip up every piece of pristine furniture and every door and every wardrobe – anywhere he could to check she hadn’t missed something. ‘Have you checked the loft?’
‘Yeah, attic, summerhouse. Maria’s been here checking too,’ she said wiping a tissue under her nose. ‘Brett says they were at the harbour last night. He said they began walking back about ten. Brett went straight home. He was sure Jack wasn’t in any trouble. I’d waited, well, I thought, no wait until ten-thirty, but when he still wasn’t in, I rang Maria just after. She and Bob came up and from what I gather Bob has been out all night with some of the others. They took the boat out to scour the coast and beaches. No one has reported a boat missing, so it’s, well, who knows? I rang the police, they are looking.’
‘Fuck. I need to put my phone on charge. I need to check my messages and emails.’
Kelly raced to the kitchen and pulled a plug from a drawer. ‘Here.’ She plugged the USB lead into the power socket as Cal handed it over.
As soon as Cal powered it up, he checked every text message, every email and Whatsapp. ‘Nothing new, but read this and tell me anything you know,’ he said opening up his email and showing Kelly the message he’d received from Jack.
She leaned across the work surface and grabbed the phone. ‘Oh my God, I can’t imagine…’
‘Has he argued with you or Reuben?’
‘No.’
‘Any girls he’s got mixed up with?’
‘Not that I know of.’
‘Has he mentioned anyone bullying him at school?’
‘No. No, nothing.’
‘Homework, exams, sports?’
‘If I knew what was bothering him, I’d say. You know what he’s like, he…he does tend to put pressure on himself. I mean, we remind him how important the junior and sophomore years are to his future and,’ Kelly’s lips thinned as her eyes welled again, ‘I’ve confiscated his phone. I needed to reduce his time on social media and playing games instead of concentrating on his studies. Of course, he still has games on his desktop but, it has not gone down well. I suppose it’s possible he could be sulking about that, and be getting stressed over his exams.’
Cal shot his hand across to the phone now back on the surface of the worktop. ‘That is not a boy worried about his exams, Kelly. Something’s wrong.’ He dragged a hand from the back of his neck and kept his gaze momentarily up to the ceiling. ‘I’ll have a good look around here. I take it you’ve checked with the school?’
‘Yes.’ Kelly scrunched her hair and turned for her coat. ‘He’s not there.’
‘I’ll quickly ring Lizzie, let her know I’ve arrived OK.’ Cal could barely hit the keys on the phone his hands were trembling so much. It was reassuring though to hear Lizzie’s voice.
‘So glad you got there OK,’ she said. ‘How is Jack?’
He paused for a second. ‘Look I won’t go into it now, I’ve just arrived and I’m still at Jack’s. Is it OK if I give you a call later?’
‘Yes, of course. I’m missing you already.’
‘Miss and love you too.’ He placed the phone back down leaving it to charge and dashed for the lower ground floor. Of course he missed her already and wanted nothing more than for her to be with him. He still couldn’t believe he’d captured her heart and he was part of her world. Thierry’s too. He didn’t like himself for not telling Lizzie the reality about Jack missing but he didn’t want her worrying too. With any luck they’d find Jack soon anyway. Oh, God, Jack. This was a small island for God’s sake. Please, please be safe. I feel I’ve only just got to know you. Cal searched behind and under sofas and chairs, in cupboards, storage chests, anything he thought a sixteen-year-old could squeeze into. Each floor, including the attic rooms and the eaves, was minutely inspected before he raced for the garden scratching his arms on the bushes, leaving nothing or nowhere to chance.
‘Jack, I’m here,’ he called as he continued into the summerhouse, under it and then into the garage, scrutinising every inch of the garage loft where storage boxes and tools resided. ‘Jack, please come out. I’m here to help,’ he said, wishing this nightmare would end. If there was one thing in his life he could do to ease years of guilt, this would be it. He would be here in his son’s hour of need and prove to him he cared, let him know he’d always cared. Shifting box after box until he was sure he’d scrutinised every corner, a small photo-frame shot out and hit a rafter. Cal reached out and turned it over. His heart lurched as his finger circled the familiar face. The young Jack flashing a full-on milk-teeth smile. His first school photo Cal recalled with fondness but then saddled it with anger at why it was here. His own copy was securely placed in an album he kept close. In fact it was at Lizzie’s apartment whilst his belongings were in storage. Obviously, Kelly had more children and priorities where décor was concerned.
‘Cal,’ Kelly called from the garden. ‘Bob, Brett’s father, is here. Where are you?’
Racing down the steps and jumping the last few, he almost crashed into Kelly entering the open garage door.
‘Ah…here, has he discovered anything?’ Cal urged.
‘No. And he won’t go home and get any sleep. He’s going back to the harbour now while I get Harry and Bea. Do you want to go?’ Kelly led Cal back into the house. Bob closed the cloakroom door and came down the hall towards them into the kitchen.
‘Hi, Bob. Thanks for all your help,’ Cal said taking Bob’s large hand. He recognised the tall stature with receding brown-grey hair. ‘I really appreciate…’
‘Oh man, I can’t imagine what you guys are suffering right now, but I’ve run out of ideas if I’m honest.’ He shrugged, wiping his brow. ‘I think I’ve been around the island twice covering every road, and stopping at every diner or bar. I’ve shown this picture here to half the population and asked them to call the police if they see him. The police are on it too. They have a team out knocking on doors. They questioned Brett this morning. Apart from suggesting we look down the harbour, he’s not saying a thing. I’m not convinced. Boys talk. I’ll try again but I’ve sent him to school.’
‘Really good of you. I’ll stay here in case.’
With a heavy heart, Cal returned to the garage. Time was getting on and fear was gripping his stomach and throat. He covered his face with his hands then rubbed his eyes in both tiredness and despair. He returned to the roof space in the garage and began climbing the steps. Something made him stop. He peered back at the summerhouse. He observed the pitched roof for a moment, noticing a porthole window to the front. He ran to the summerhouse door and inside, in the centre of the ceiling was a small-framed door hatch. His eyes scanned the room for a hook. There was nothing visible. He grabbed a chair and climbed up, pushing in the hatch which released and swung open.
‘Jack. Are you there, Jack?’ He pulled the narrow folded steps down and unfastened the clasp allowing the length of the steps to fall to the floor. He peered up, dust particles flitted through the beam of daylight from the tiny window. He then climbed up. ‘Jack.’
Chapter 3 (#ulink_523e8723-9c99-55f0-9631-e4946c7ca789)
Lizzie was still pondering on the idea. A male cosmetic surgeon. It wasn’t a case of being sexist, she just hadn’t thought about it. And, certainly, some of her clients may prefer to be treated by a man. It could certainly be a bonus to have someone with Sophie’s skills on standby who knew the business, with the busy season coming up in just ten weeks. Lizzie scanned last year’s timetable to ensure she would have plenty of hair and beauty consultants working for the salon to cover the demands of the Cannes Film Festival and the Monaco Grand Prix. She prayed Sophie wouldn’t be jetting off to the States during that time. Not that everyone would be requiring rigorous cosmetic surgery, but the Botox and filler treatments would certainly be in demand.
She sat back and brushed her temple. This was quite phenomenal, she thought to herself, and still early days. Their salon in the Rue d’Antibes had barely been open six months. Maybe it would be a good idea to also have male grooming consultants on board. As excitement bubbled inside her, she wished Sophie was around to talk to, and Cal.
‘Bonjour, Lizzie.’ Josephine, her Manager, poked her head round the door.
Lizzie looked up with a start. ‘Oh, Josephine. How are you? Sorry, I was miles away.’
‘Yes, good. A bit tired. I was out watching a band last night, so still a little hung over.’
‘Oh, good sign. Sounds like you had a good time. How are things downstairs? I’ve had my head stuck in these,’ she said pointing to the spreadsheets on the screen.
‘Yes, all running OK. Madame Joubert is down there if you want to say hello.’
Lizzie smiled. ‘Oh thanks, I will. Oh, and before you disappear, tell me what you think of this?’
Lizzie explained to Josephine her idea of introducing a male grooming section.
‘Absolutely great.’
‘It would mean extra work so I thought Lucie could get more involved in assisting you. She’s good at working with the schedules.’
Josephine nodded.
Lizzie’s mobile rang. ‘Excuse me a minute,’ she said, her eyes brightening as she spoke. ‘Cal.’ Josephine made for the door.
Barely thirty seconds later, Lizzie slipped the phone back down onto her desk. Pulling a face, she leaned her elbow on the arm of her chair, sliding her fingers through her hair and picturing his worried face shadowed by dark unruly hair. She could only conclude it was difficult for him to talk. The conversation was very brief.
Finding it hard to imagine he was now thousands of miles away, already she yearned to be next to him and hold him. Tell him things would be fine. She never doubted Cal wouldn’t cope but she wanted to be there for him and it was suddenly strange that he wouldn’t be at the apartment tonight. The main thing was, she consoled herself, was he’d arrived safely and he was with Jack. He would soon have his son back on track, that much she was sure. Cal seemed to know how to deal with any situation. Now the question was, should she mention anything to Rose, his grandmother? She didn’t want to have her panicking and worrying about her grandson. Although, she pondered the thought, Jack may have confided something relevant. Lizzie rang down to reception.
Cal’s mother’s face was glowing after her facial fifteen minutes later.
‘Rose, so lovely to see you. You are looking lovely,’ she told her honestly. Lizzie had always thought she had great skin for her years and Cal had obviously inherited the eyes and her naturally oozing charisma. She kissed her lightly on the cheeks.
‘You too, sweetie, and thank you again for that lovely dinner last week. I’ve been meaning to call Cal actually.’
‘Oh, I enjoyed your company. I’m sure he won’t mind me telling you, he flew over to see Jack this morning.’
Lizzie witnessed immediate concern in Rose’s eyes.
‘Oh heavens, something is up,’ Rose said, her hand reaching for her chest.
‘He’s just gone to make sure Jack is OK.’
‘He didn’t say.’
Lizzie gently clasped Rose’s arm. ‘No, it was rather last minute as Jack was upset and asked Cal for help.’
‘Hmm, I wonder if it’s anything to do with that girl?’
Lizzie’s eyes widened. Jack had obviously confided in his grandmother and she didn’t feel right asking her.
‘Cal didn’t know exactly.’
‘Well, youngsters have so many things they worry about and, unlike Kelly who seeks an Oscar every time she has an issue, Jack is the total opposite. He internalises everything and probably thinks way too deeply about the ins and outs of everything. He’s so like Cal. We were talking about his exams. Now, Jack doesn’t struggle but worries. “What if I don’t get the grades, Gran, what if I don’t get to this college or that”, and he did mentioned a girl being nasty but you know what youngsters are like, friends one minute and…oh perhaps I should have been a little more sympathetic.’
‘Rose. You’re there for him, obviously. You can’t know what’s going on in his head all the time.’
‘No, but I should have rung Cal sooner.’
‘Well, Cal’s there now and I’m sure he’ll get to the bottom of it all,’ Lizzie said, adding a light reassuring squeeze to her arm. ‘I’m going to speak to him soon if you’d like me to mention it.’
‘Oh, I should ring him,’ Rose said clasping her forehead.
Lizzie straightened her back to unleash the tension building in her spine. She was treading on delicate ground and wondered if she’d done the right thing. Now Rose was feeling dreadful and blaming herself.
Rose put her other hand on Lizzie’s. ‘Sweetheart, it makes sense if you are speaking to him soon to mention it. You’ll get to speak to him before me I guess. I have a dental appointment so I won’t be home for at least…yes, would you tell him?’
‘I’ll try him in a while and don’t worry, he will understand.’
‘You are a treasure. Thank you, Lizzie. It’s lovely that you are concerned. I’m sure Cal realises what a gem he has in you,’ Rose said, hugging her. ‘I should be on my way.’
‘Lovely to see you. I’ll ring you later and let you know how Jack is.’
‘Well, pop in with Thierry later if you’re not too busy.’
‘I’d love to.’
A sense of relief swept over Lizzie as she watched Rose manoeuvre carefully out the door. The first time she’d really ever met Rose properly was when Rose had fallen over outside the salon. She’d run out to her when she’d twisted her ankle. She’d only known her as Madame Joubert, a client. Then to learn, after a later visit to her Villefranche villa, she was in fact Cal’s mother, was quite a shock. It soon materialised she’d remarried and hence Lizzie had not recognised the name nor made the connection. Getting to know Rose and speaking to her had certainly helped seal her trust in Cal. And seeing how much Cal respected her was comforting; she’d never imagined trusting a man ever again, so she would be forever thankful for that fateful meeting.
She waved Rose off and climbed the stairs back to her office. The swirl of that sweet memory climbed with her. The image of Cal stood on Rose’s balcony late October and then that moment when she gave every part of herself evoked such shameless emotion.
Itching to relay the information to Cal, she rang his mobile. It went to voicemail.
Damn. Should she leave a voicemail?
Half an hour later she tried again.
‘Hi, Lizzie,’ Kelly’s voice bellowed. ‘Cal was here a while ago but I can’t find him. I’ll give a shout and have him call you.’
‘Yes, can you tell him it’s important please?’ Lizzie said then took a gasp questioning whether she should just mention it to Kelly. She was Jack’s mother after all. ‘Thank you Kelly, bye.’
Deciding she would let Cal make that decision, she hung up. She and Cal, she considered, were very close in their still-brief relationship but she didn’t feel ready to get too involved in his domestic set up with Kelly. There was a fine line and she feared she would be crossing it. Cal was obviously with Jack now and they would probably be working things through.
Feeling like a loved-up teenager, she took out a photo of herself, Cal, Thierry and Jack posing together on Jack’s sixteenth birthday the day after the New Year’s party. Reuben had taken it with the camera Cal had bought her for Christmas. It portrayed a happy family and she loved it. Cal looked utterly sexy, his dark locks falling loosely almost over his eyes, and his gorgeous smile as always showed off teeth to die for. Kneeling down, one arm was wrapped over Jack’s shoulder, Jack looking tall with lively eyes, so evidently his son, whilst his other arm was clasped around her waist as she knelt beside him. Thierry leaning between both their knees and flaunting a mischievous smile.
She then pulled out the photo behind it. She smiled to herself and had to admit, she and Cal did make a handsome couple. That’s what people told them at Sophie and Charles’s engagement before Christmas. And, since that photo, she had fallen even deeper in love with him. She adored everything, his eyes, his smile, his gorgeously toned body, plus he was an attentive lover. God she’d never had so much pleasure. And he was so considerate and caring in many other ways. Thierry was crazy about him too. The fact that he often cooked him pizza quite possibly helped, but Cal always talked and played on Thierry’s three-year-old level which was so endearing to watch. As she peered at Cal she remembered him squeezing her waist in that photo too, making her squeal with delight and her loins ache for him. The final photo was of the four of them, Cal was mockingly down on one knee along with Charles who had genuinely proposed to Sophie for the camera again on the night of their engagement. Sophie’s rock of a diamond sparkled from her left hand which was resting lightly on her décolletage. All four of them brimming with joyous laughter.
Lizzie placed each photo down on the desk and smiled. It wouldn’t be long before Sophie and Charles were man and wife. They had designs on a wedding in the summer and Charles, in his usual unassuming manner, announced he would surprise his bride with something special. Sophie had been delighted, if not a little apprehensive. Lizzie considered it a lovely romantic gesture she was sure her friend would love. Sophie only had to worry about her dress, flowers and her bridesmaids, although the first person she requested was Thierry as her page boy. Cal, as best man however, was sworn to secrecy and he’d been as good as his word.
It was just after five-thirty as she was walking back to her apartment when Lizzie checked her mobile. Still nothing back from Cal.
Chapter 4 (#ulink_7d7c655e-4b6f-5c52-a780-286d2becd186)
‘Dad.’
‘Jack…yes.’ Cal’s voice sang from his heart as it swelled and a huge sigh blew from his airways.
Reaching the latch entrance, he reached up to a cord and switched on a ceiling lamp. He heard a sudden scuttling sound. ‘Jack.’ He stretched his neck to seek his son.
‘Yeah. I’m here but don’t make me go in or go to school tomorrow. Dad, I’m staying here or you take me to England. I hate it here, Dad.’
Cal climbed the four remaining steps slowly, gauging a fear in Jack’s plea he’d never witnessed before. As he turned to follow the voice, his eyes met the scrunched frame tugging at a dark-blue sleeping bag. The roof space was small and shallow. Jack’s deep-hazel eyes bulged, confirming Cal’s suspicion.
‘How long have you been here?’ Cal asked, now attempting to crawl into the cramped space.
‘I got cold down…I was down at the marina but I got back here just before it got light. Mom will make me go to school. Dad, don’t tell Mom where I am.’
‘Your mom is beside herself with worry. You need to explain, Jack.’
‘She won’t listen, she’ll send me to school.’
‘There are a lot of people out there searching for you so they need to know you are safe.’
Cal just wanted to stay and talk but he had to let Kelly know and the guys who had spent the entire night out in the bitter cold with no sleep. God knows, they needed a rest.
Cal took a deep breath. ‘OK. I’ll do a deal. You promise to stay here and I promise I won’t let her up. I’m going to tell your mom you’re OK because she needs to tell everyone to stop searching. I’ll be right back, alone, I promise. Is that a deal?’
Jack slid back down into the sleeping bag. ‘Not Mom? No I said.’
Cal shook his head. ‘Your mom will be relieved you’re here. I’m telling her, not because you have to go to school but to stop the panic and the search. There are a lot of people worried about you, Jack. I’m just going to tell them that we will talk alone. Just you and me. I’m going to make that clear.’ He paused, searching for Jack’s approval. Jack continued to look down, fiddling with the sleeping-bag zip. ‘Is that clear, Jack? Do you trust me?’
‘Will you be staying here, Dad? I want you to stay. Mom will send me to school.’
‘I’m going nowhere, son, until I’m happy you’re happy.’
After several seconds, scared eyes peered up. ‘I trust you, Dad, but Mom will start fussing and bossing…’
‘Jack, do you trust me?’
Cal watched as his son lay still, contemplating, his eyes flitting back and forth to the zip and back to him. He could only imagine what was going on in Jack’s mind. He knew Kelly was controlling and just loved to tell her friends about every detail of her daily dramas. Was this what his son was afraid of? Did she inadvertently humiliate him? He was sure he wouldn’t have appreciated it himself at sixteen. One thing was certain and that was, this boy was intent on hiding or running away. What was it his son couldn’t face?
‘I want to go away, Dad. I want to be with you but not here. I want to go to England.’
‘I understand you’re struggling, Jack. We can talk about this. Give me five minutes and…’
Both their heads turned as Kelly shouted from the back door. Cal glanced at his child.
‘Five minutes and I’ll be back. Trust me?’ Cal raised his hand for a high-five.
Jack grimaced and raised a hand to his father. ‘Don’t bring her here, please.’
‘I promise.’ Cal scratched the back of his head. Torn between trying to keep his son calm and needing to let Kelly know her son was safe, Cal couldn’t make false promises.
‘Trust me. Five minutes.’
He scrambled back down the steps and across the neat-lawned garden. For a house worth several million dollars, the garden was relatively small, only a hundred foot long by, Cal guessed, eighty foot wide. The summerhouse was at the end of it and away from the house. It made sense he would take refuge somewhere close. He wondered if Jack had been planning this for some time. It wasn’t the most obvious place to have a sleeping bag to hand. He was sure the space would have been checked the previous evening. He stepped into the back lobby.
‘Oh Cal, there you are. Still nothing to report but Lizzie rang you,’ Kelly said as Cal entered the kitchen lobby.
He headed straight for the unit where his phone was charging in the kitchen and waited for Kelly to follow. At once, he saw Bob, Brett’s father leaning on the island and Harry raiding the fridge and Bea throwing her coat onto the back of a dining chair.
Kelly then spun back grabbing her hair in frustration. ‘Nothing at the harbour. Bob, you should go home and get some sleep. Cal can…’
Trying to maintain a calm mood, Cal interrupted softly. ‘Look, it’s OK. Well, the good news is that I’ve found Jack and physically, he’s fine but…’ He threw up a hand as Kelly’s eyes and mouth shot wide whilst her body almost bounced in the air ‘Yes, I know you’re all excited and everything, but he has asked for privacy. And I respect that. And, Kelly, I’m asking you do too. Give him a little time. He has asked to speak to me alone, and again, I respect his wishes and hope you will too. The important thing is he is safe. He was in the summerhouse loft. He hasn’t said where he was yet but…’
‘Aww I just want to see him and hug him,’ Kelly’s eyes pleaded, ‘to tell him how much I love him. That’s odd. We checked the summerhouse and the garage.’
‘He said he got there before light.’
Bob and Kelly glanced at each other. Then Bob nodded with relief spread across his face. ‘Great news. Relieved for you all. I’ll go tell Maria and the guys.’ He wrapped his arms first around Kelly then Cal.
‘Bob, I can’t thank you enough,’ Cal told him as he picked up his phone. ‘So, Kelly, I’m going back to him now, so wait for my instruction please. Actually, I’ll take a couple of cans of drink and a few snacks if you have them. I don’t suppose he’s had anything to eat.’
‘Can’t he come in and talk?’ Kelly insisted, siding up to her son Harry and clutching the refrigerator door then browsing among food items. ‘You could both go to his room.’
‘If and when he’s ready.’
‘Can I go see him?’ Harry interrupted.
‘No, Harry. You’ll have to wait. Cal, has he said why he’s hiding out?’ Kelly said gathering an armful of drinks and packets.
‘Let’s take it a step at a time shall we? Keep Harry and Bea in here. Have you got a bag for those?’
Kelly grouped the items together and then pulled out a plastic bag from a drawer handing it to Cal. She then scoured a further cupboard snatching huge bags of snacks.
‘Take these too. I really don’t know what he’s making such a fuss about. He’s bright, confident, has friends. What the hell is he worried about?’
‘I’m sure it’s just a phase. A teenage blip.’
‘Tell him, whatever it is, I’m here for him.’
With a bulging bag of food and drinks in his hand, Cal returned to the garden and into the summerhouse and climbed back up the steps. He knew Kelly’s heart was in the right place, he just wasn’t sure if she, or he for that matter, could penetrate and unfurl Jack’s inner world. His naval training had prepared him for many situations, including dealing with younger officers’ emotions. This, however, was different. He was emotionally attached himself. It wasn’t easy witnessing your own child in a dark place.
Crawling back into the loft space felt claustrophobic but he kept his head low and blew out a grateful sigh seeing Jack still wrapped in the sleeping bag.
‘Well, I may have taken a little longer but I’ve brought us some goodies. Here.’ He placed the bag down beside Jack and watched as his son’s hand scrambled inside it.
‘Cool, I’m starving.’ Jack’s voice croaked with a little more gusto as he opened a bag of crisps and scooped a handful into his mouth. He then took a can and pulled the ring.
‘Yes, your mom thought you might be. She was really worried. She cares a lot. She says she loves you and wants to hug you.’
Jack shrugged his shoulders. ‘Huh, doesn’t sound like her.’
Keeping a watchful eye on Jack, Cal took a can of cold Cola from the bag too. He pulled the ring and sipped quietly.
‘So, tell me why you don’t want to stay here.’
Jack dropped an empty bag into his lap and pulled the ring on another can of Cola.
‘I just can’t. And don’t ask me why. I don’t want to talk about it.’
‘How can I help you if I don’t know what it is you need help with?’
Finishing his second drink, Jack put down the can and gripped his hands together as he turned, slunk down and rested on both elbows.
‘You wouldn’t understand, Dad.’
Feeling the urge to straighten his back, Cal remained still and silent, just biting at his lip as Jack’s thick-lashed eyes shifted from the can to his. He swallowed hard as his chest tightened. He couldn’t recall a time when Jack had been this quiet. Usually he was bursting with energy and news with so much to tell him. Just weeks ago at the New Year party, and his birthday the day after, Jack was eager to relay his progress at school, his plans with his friends to set up a band; to be lead guitar and write his own songs. Now he appeared drained, gaunt even. Jack had clearly lost his mojo, his lust for life. Cal’s heart wept before jarring. Finally he stretched out his legs and leant on his arm facing his son.
‘Jack, let me in, tell me how I can help?’
Jack thought for a moment then raised his lashes. ‘Can I come back to England with you?’
Cal tipped his head, confused. ‘I’m not living in England any more. I’m in the south of France.’
‘Oh.’ Jack frowned. ‘You said you had found the land but I didn’t realise you moved already.’
‘Well, I moved in with Lizzie when we got back from here in January. I thought I’d told you. Well, perhaps we spoke generally at New Year, so maybe you were playing with Harry at the time. Anyway…’
‘My friend Robbie is going to live there and go to college there. He said I could stay with him.’
Cal felt a chill gush through him. ‘You’re just sixteen. That’s too young to be in London alone,’ he told him, aware his son still had a lot of growing pains to go through before he had any chance of independence.
‘I’ll be with Robbie. He’s two years older than me so I won’t be alone.’
‘Jack, I need to understand what it is you’re running away from before we can even begin to think about what you are going to do after your SATS. I’m here and happy to help whatever it is. And, I’m not here to judge. Whatever it is, it’s OK. Do you understand?’
Grinding his teeth, Jack peered up, examining his father’s face.
‘I promise I’m not a monster. I’m listening. I want to help. The sooner you get whatever it is off your chest, the sooner you can move on with your life. That will be your escape, no running off to London. We will work through your problem, nobody else’s. Yours. I’m your dad and it matters to me. Jack, I love you, and I care. Understood?’
Cal raised his arm and a flat palm for a high-five. Jack slapped it, breaking a nervous smile.
‘Good, I’m glad that’s understood. So is it just your problem or is there someone else involved?’
As frustrating as it was, Cal oozed out patience. He shifted his aching arm, lifting his body up to lean on the other arm. He didn’t want to suggest going into the house for fear of Jack blocking him out again. Jack wriggled about too though suggesting he was becoming more comfortable.
Jack cleared his throat. ‘Can I just ask you, would you come to London and live there if I lived there?’
‘Not up for discussion. You are running away from something here.’
Jack peered down biting his lip. ‘No, it’s what I really want. I’ve thought about it and it’s definitely where I think my future is.’
‘So finish your SATS here and then we’ll talk about London.’
‘Dad. I really want to go now. I can finish them in London. I can go to an international school.’
Cal reached out and lifted his son’s chin. He searched his eyes for a moment. ‘Jack, explain to me why now is so important? What has happened?’
Chapter 5 (#ulink_7704a891-d130-5fa4-9cae-1e821cf1f3fd)
‘Hi, Annatia,’ Lizzie said, ‘sorry I didn’t get back to you earlier. I was hoping to speak to Cal. He’s had to rush over to his son in the States so, I’m still not sure if he’ll be back for Friday to show you around the house. I may have to cancel.’
‘Oh, I hope it’s nothing serious,’ Annatia, their friend and interior design expert, asked with genuine concern in her voice.
‘Hopefully not. A teenage episode. I’m waiting to hear.’
‘Ouch, tough age. Send him our regards. Well, if you want to go alone, I’m still available. Have you got keys?’
Lizzie agonised for a few seconds. She would love to see it. Cal had shown her a few photographs and, although it appeared somewhat dilapidated, she couldn’t wait to see it and what could be done there. He’d even offered to drive her up but she insisted she would wait until all the legal work was completed and he officially got the keys. In truth, she wanted to share the moment with Cal. It was his after all.
‘I think the best thing is for me to speak with him. I don’t think he’ll be back before Friday and, in all honesty, Annatia, I wouldn’t want any decisions made without him there. He talks about the vines and his plans as I’m sure Jes knows but, he doesn’t know much about the building. I’ll try him again. I don’t want you wasting your time.’
‘That’s fine, honey. Let me know when you can. I’m sure he’ll get in touch with Jes anyway. I think he has some rootstock on order.’
‘Thank you, Annatia.’
Lizzie was now close to her apartment and as she put her phone in her bag, searched for her keys.
Thierry ran to her as soon as she stepped inside the door. ‘Hello, Mummy.’ He grabbed at her trousers. ‘I did swim today, Mummy.’
Lizzie immediately bent down and squeezed him in her arms and kissed him.
‘Hello, darling. Wow, well done. You are a clever boy.’
‘I swimmed like this.’ Thierry threw himself to the floor and began to wave his arms and legs. ‘And I not have my armbands on, Mummy.’
Marie-Claire popped her head out from the kitchen area wearing a large grin. ‘Bonsoir, Lizzie.’
Lizzie’s face burst into laughter as she straightened up to watch her son demonstrate. She glanced up briefly. ‘Bonsoir, Marie-Claire. How amazing. He’s really swimming?’
‘Yes, just two strokes but he swam on his own. No armbands.’
‘Thierry, I’m so proud of you. Good boy.’ Lizzie knelt down again and stroked his hair as he continued stretching out his arms.
‘Will you come swimming, Mummy?’
‘I’m sure I can manage an hour, darling.’ She glanced back at Marie-Claire. ‘When will you go again?’
‘We can go late morning tomorrow. Eleven-thirty or twelve, before his playschool at two.’
‘Yes, sounds perfect. I can’t wait. You can show Mummy tomorrow.’
‘Then can we go to the park?’ Thierry asked getting up and sliding up to his mother.
‘Well, you’ll want some lunch before playschool so we won’t have time.’
‘Thierry, your dinner is ready,’ Marie-Claire announced.
‘Come on, clever boy, let’s go wash your hands,’ Lizzie said clasping his hand and leading him to the cloakroom.
After dinner and puzzles, Lizzie followed her usual bedtime routine and read to Thierry after his bath. She insisted she would bath him as Marie-Claire was going out with her new boyfriend, Patric. It was the first time Lizzie had known her to have a proper boyfriend and after the trauma with Anton last year, she was thankful Thierry’s nanny was seemingly unaffected and now happy. Patric was twenty and just a year older than Marie-Claire. His family lived locally too, just a few miles along the coast in Antibes where they also had an automobile business. Lizzie had only met him briefly twice, but he seemed a really nice lad and they were well suited; they both loved sport and music. It was just after eleven-thirty when Marie-Claire returned and had just made a coffee in the kitchen. Lizzie was on the sofa reading.
‘Lizzie, your phone is ringing.’ Marie-Claire picked up Lizzie’s phone from the worktop where it was charging.
‘Oh quick. Can you answer it? It might be Cal.’ Lizzie swung her legs off the sofa and leaped towards the kitchen.
‘Yes, it is Cal.’
Swopping roles, she took the phone whilst Marie-Claire took over the sofa.
Her heart warmed just hearing his voice echo down the phone. Marie-Claire whispered ‘Goodnight’ and pattered off to her room.
‘Lizzie. Hi. So sorry. I’ve been with, sorry, I’m with Jack. Just popped to the men’s room. How are you?’
‘Fine. Missing you of course and hope all is well with Jack?’
‘It’s slow, but making progress. I think!’
‘Well, I won’t keep you, I wanted to mention something. Two things as I don’t suppose you’ll be back for Friday to look around the house. And, I’d really prefer you were with us, so I’ll ask Jean-Luc and Annatia if they wouldn’t mind holding off until you get back. Is that OK?’
‘Yes. Absolutely, whatever you prefer. This may take a few more days,’ he said.
After the initial sinking, Lizzie warmed as she imagined the smile in his voice. ‘And, I’m not interfering. It’s just that your mother was in the salon earlier, and obviously I told her you’d flown out to Jack because he was upset. She mentioned Jack saying something to her about a girl being nasty to him. I thought it may be relevant. That’s all. She didn’t know any more.’
‘Oh shhh-it. I should have rung her. Did she get panicky?’
‘Concerned. I didn’t dramatise if that’s what you’re wondering.’
‘Mmm, OK. Thanks. It may be significant. I’d better get back. I’ll call you tomorrow.’ He paused. ‘I love you, Lizzie and, give Thierry a big hug from me.’
Lizzie would have preferred to sit and talk longer but Cal sounded occupied. Jack, it seemed, was still volatile. If only she could be there to help.
‘Cal, will it help if I came over? Business is manageable. Just a few days,’ she blurted. It wasn’t really the right time but she didn’t know how long she’d have to wait to speak to him again.
‘Give me the weekend and…actually, no. Having Thierry around might be just the tonic for Jack. I’ll sort somewhere for us to stay. I don’t really want to stay here. Maybe Jack could come and stay with us. Yes, why not? There’s no rush. Maybe early next week.’
‘I’ll sort out some travel for Tuesday or Wednesday and let you know. I’ll text you details. I’ll take Thierry back on the ferry this time. It will be more of an adventure for him.’
‘Great. All being well, I’ll come over to Boston and meet you.’
After saying their goodbyes, Lizzie’s heart wrenched as she picked up her coffee. He’d been gone just twenty-four hours but she really needed to hold him and snuggle into his chest. But then elation muscled in. It seemed a long way off, but she would be with him in less than a week and suddenly she wanted to dance. To see him and touch him, just to be there for him and support him was making her heart sing. Glancing momentarily at Thierry’s toys, she only hoped Jack would be in a better place emotionally.
She understood so well the traumas of being a teenager. God, she’d had her share. Having to suddenly face grown up problems she didn’t really understand or know how to deal with. Believing she was adult enough to make choices and decisions which she just wasn’t emotionally equipped to deal with. It was a very lonely place.
Sipping her drink which was now luke-warm, she recalled the torment and humiliation she’d suffered when her first love, Hugo, two-timed her during their relationship in her first year at university. It was excruciatingly painful. She’d imagined every student was sniggering and talking about her behind her back. She’d dreaded facing people for fear of ridicule. She couldn’t even trust her friends. She swore they must have hidden the truth from her or worse, lied to cover up. It was so embarrassing. How could she ever have trusted them again? And she couldn’t ever imagine trusting a man again, not after Hugo. She’d just wanted to curl up and die.
Instead, she’d hit on an alternative. Her defence mechanism was to flee. Just seven months into uni, she had taken flight to free herself from people she could no longer trust. Fortunately for Cal, Jack hadn’t run. He’d cried for help and Cal had acted immediately. He’d listened. That’s what a parent should do. Unlike her mother who was always quick to judge. Or so she imagined at the time. Nonetheless, she’d run, not just from Hugo, her friends and uni, but from her family. Her mother and grandfather. She didn’t even have the sense to tell someone; well, she’d posted a note to her mother from England before landing in France. She’d believed her mother would have been angry and shamed. Angry because she’d always said Hugo was no good and shamed because her daughter had failed her. Her promise of being a vet fell at the first hurdle. And then there was Anton. She downed the last mouthful from her mug.
She’d been so glitzed with Anton’s glamour when she’d arrived in Cannes. Thought herself so madly in love. Such a charmer and then, whoosh, she’d discovered yet another cheat. The worst playboy in Cannes in fact. And, unfortunately, a drugged-up control freak who could never have been a father to Thierry. Well thankfully, that was all in the past. Now, as a mother, it was impossible to conceive the notion that her child would disappear and not get in touch for five years. How did she never realise her own mother’s heartache? Thanks to Cal, in the last twelve months she’d grown up faster than ever, just by taking time to get to know her mother and find an amazing man she could trust.
‘Fuck,’ she burst out, crashing back to the moment. Cal at Kelly’s!
By ten o’clock the following morning at the office, Lizzie had looked up the flights. Most flew via London, so she rang her mother so she could make a visit on her return then booked her and Thierry’s flights to Boston. She was just reading through a few CVs Josephine had forwarded for the new male grooming section when a whoosh of energy flew into her room.
‘Good morning, Lizzie. I’ve some great news.’ A contagious smile spread across Sophie’s face. ‘I am going to Los Angeles on the eighth of April to meet Professor Eckhart and demonstrate my new procedure. They’ll also get the substance rigorously tested as fast as they can. Would you like to come with me?’
‘Oh wow, exciting!
‘It’s brilliant isn’t it? If it all tests OK, we’re going to patent it in as much of the world as we can.’
Lizzie jumped up and threw her arms around her friend. ‘You are amazing. I’m sure it will test fine. Ha! I know you too well – you’ll not have gone this far without checking everything a million times.’
‘Well, not quite that many but, yes, you know me well – due diligence is my middle name.’ Sophie pulled a face and then resumed her huge smile.
Lizzie felt rather gutted. She’d have loved to be there with Sophie and supporting her. This really wasn’t very good timing, just as she was about to tell her her own plans.
‘I’d love to come with you but I’ve just booked a trip to join Cal in Nantucket. I’m flying out to Boston on Tuesday for a week.’
Sophie’s smile dropped. ‘Oh, I was hoping…not to worry.’
A deflated breath escaped Lizzie before she had an idea. ‘Why don’t you ask Charles? You’ve both been working hard. You could make it a holiday.’
Sophie pursed her lips. ‘Hmm! If only I could prise him away from his desk! What are the chances of that?’
‘Oh, I’m sure you could sell it better. There’s bound to be sailing in Los Angeles.’
‘Ha! Brilliant. Good point.’ Sophie slipped her hands to her waist creating a pondering stance. ‘Mmm, yes. I’ll have a look. Oh, and Angus is going to come along on Saturday morning if that’s OK with you. I’m sure you’ll love him but be sure to tell me if you’re not convinced. He’s certainly a talented cosmetic and plastic surgeon.’
‘I look forward to meeting him. I hope you can convince Charles too. It would alleviate my guilt.’
‘Why guilt? Don’t be. It would have been nice.’
Lizzie checked the time on her phone. She would have to leave soon to meet Thierry and Marie-Claire.
‘It would, but we’ll research the sailing when I get back. I’m just going to meet Marie-Claire and watch Thierry swim. I’ll be back in an hour or so.’
‘Aww, really? He loves the water doesn’t he? What a shame I have a treatment, I’d have come with you.’
Lizzie rushed along to Avenue de Benefiat to the pool where Marie-Claire and Thierry waited.
After changing, Thierry couldn’t wait to show off his new skill and he jumped up and down as he waited for the girls to get changed and deposit their clothes in the locker. Once they reached the water, Lizzie was surprised when Thierry just jumped in without warning. At once she followed in panic but Thierry’s small body popped back up and he immediately began splashing his arms and legs and swimming halfway across the pool.
‘Wow,’ Marie-Claire screamed with delight. ‘He really wants to show you.’
Lizzie caught his tired wet torso as he puffed and spluttered water from his mouth and nose. She knelt down, standing him against her thighs.
‘Well done, Thierry. I’ve got you but…’ She turned to his nanny now behind her. ‘Jesus, I can hardly breathe. He just went and I could hardly keep up with him. You’ll have to keep a really close eye on him. Phew. I wasn’t expecting that.’ She pinched his nose and wiped the mucus with her hand.
‘Yes, he is fearless. And, of course, I watch him close. With my life.’
Thierry began jumping up and down, ready to go again. Lizzie allowed him to jump and splash as she swirled him around. He laughed and giggled.
‘I want to swim again, Mummy.’
As Lizzie nodded, out of the corner of her eye she spotted a familiar figure being led by an older woman. It was Anton, Thierry’s father. The woman was instructing him to move his legs to walk in the water. Lizzie swallowed hard. It was difficult to believe he was still going through some basic rehabilitation. Her concern now however was to get out of the water and out of his sight. The last thing she wanted was for Marie-Claire to see him. And Thierry. She didn’t know if his father’s face and the attempt to abduct him still haunted his mind. She was sure it would still spook Marie-Claire. She knew she’d created a lot of damage soon after she’d struck him over the head with the champagne bottle six months ago. Seeing him now could bring another trauma on.
‘Marie-Claire, I’m so sorry. I feel extremely dizzy. Could we please go back to the changing room? Take Thierry please and turn and I’ll hold your shoulder in case I slip.’
‘Lizzie, oh yes, yes, of course.’ She took the boy in her arms and gripped his arms around her shoulder.
‘More swimming. I want to do more swimming, Mummy,’ Thierry protested, attracting more attention than Lizzie would have hoped.
‘Just ignore him, Marie-Claire. We’ll calm him down once we’re out,’ Lizzie told her as they climbed the pool steps and passed a parked wheelchair. She just prayed Anton wouldn’t spot them. ‘I’m right behind you and I’m OK. I’ll hold your shoulder. Keep walking.’
Marie-Claire did as she was told and did her best to control the wriggling, wailing Thierry as she led Lizzie through to the changing room.
Lizzie continued her faking performance for as long as necessary as they changed and made their way out of the building, which seemed cruel to Marie-Claire trying to console the teary Thierry and, once clear of the building, sped up her pace as they walked back to her apartment.
‘Oh, so sorry. I feel a little better now though. I’m really sorry, Thierry darling. We’ll go again another day. Mummy felt very sick and you wouldn’t like Mummy to be sick in the pool would you?’
When Lizzie got back to the office, she dashed to the cloakroom to tidy her hair and face. The mirror confirmed her inner state. She took out her make-up bag and rubbed in some moisturiser before adding her usual light foundation and blusher to her cheeks. After brushing her hair, she waltzed with some relief to Sophie’s consulting room. As she stepped into the doorway, she stopped as a tall male figure stood by her friend’s desk.
‘Oh, I’ll come back later, Soph.’
Sophie jumped up and called out, ‘No. Lizzie, come back. Your timing is good actually. Come in and meet Angus.’
Lizzie gripped the doorframe for a few seconds. ‘Angus. Oh, you’re Sophie’s colleague, er, associate?’ She peered directly at the tall figure holding out a hand and glaring at her with bright, cornflower-blue eyes and golden hair. ‘Very nice to meet you.’ She shook his hand.
‘Yes, well, we both lecture at the same college part-time. I was also practising in Belgium before I decided I needed a change so until I sort out where I want to put down roots, I’m at your disposal, ladies.’
Lizzie was immediately captivated by his Scottish accent. ‘Well, I’ve heard good things about you from Sophie whom I trust with my life.’
He threw out a warm smile which dimpled the sides of his mouth and a few laughter lines creased his eyes. Lizzie guessed he was close to his mid-thirties, a similar age to Cal and, she considered, good looking as well as, on first impression, charming.
‘Why don’t we sit down? My next client is not for twenty minutes,’ Sophie said pulling over another chair for them both and sitting back at her desk.
Angus pinched up his trousers at his knees before he sat. ‘I’m only too pleased to help out. The money, of course, always comes in handy. Actually, I was shopping and couldn’t resist popping in. It caught my eye, and Sophie just gave me a quick tour. It’s quite a set up you have here. Very impressive in fact. Sophie says you set up a few years ago in the beauty industry?’
Lizzie relayed some history of her buying the business about four years ago when Thierry was born and how luck and support from her best friend had secured her future.
‘That’s admirable. Shrewd too.’
‘More of a necessity really,’ she told him, trying to hide her blush. ‘Tell me more about what you’ve done?’ she asked, crossing her legs.
Both she and Sophie listened as he clarified his original Edinburgh accent and revealed his study background from Glasgow University to Europe, to America, Canada, Australia and back to Europe. Sophie had heard it all before, it seemed, but Lizzie was impressed that he’d done so much work reconstructing breast cancer patients as well as working in many cosmetic clinics with various procedures and support staff.
‘Well, we’re strictly day cases but you will have assistants,’ Lizzie said, comfortable that he sounded more than capable. ‘So feel free to come back Saturday with any further questions or to get more familiar with the place and the staff.’
Sophie smiled. ‘Good idea. The staff and consultants here are fantastic. And you’ll love Josephine, the Manager who you met. Oh but now I’m repeating myself.’
Angus chuckled. ‘That’s great, I love the enthusiasm.’
‘You’ll love Betty the cleaner too. She’s such a sweetie. And we may even have some male groomers by April too. A little expansion programme we’re doing.’
‘Yes. It’s pretty much an all-female institution at the moment,’ Sophie added.
As soon as Angus left reception, Sophie asked, ‘Well?’
Lizzie smiled. ‘Good choice, Sophie. He seems to have loads of experience. Very presentable, charming, so I’ll take your word he can do the job. It will be interesting to see how our clients respond. Eye candy for the ladies.’
Sophie’s arm wrapped over Lizzie’s shoulder. ‘I knew you would like him. Excellent.’
‘Yes, he’s very nice. Is he married?’
Chapter 6 (#ulink_74a7268a-b778-53fc-abc6-940f21cae8a3)
After settling back in the tiny loft, Cal’s breathing quickened as his son peered up to him. Was Jack assessing his trust? He could wait. As hard as it was not to speak, he wanted the boy’s version. What he’d learned from Lizzie was just hearsay as far as he was concerned. He wanted the facts. The nuts and bolts of the grief Jack had built inside him. He wanted him to deconstruct it piece by piece to him and replace it by building trust. Jack had spent his life wrapped in cotton wool. He’d never wanted for anything, nor anyone as far as he was aware. He’d had family and friends within a close community to watch out for him and provide for every need. He was a bright, athletic boy who was more than capable at anything he put his mind to. What the hell was troubling him? Cal scratched his head.
Jack licked his lips repeatedly, his eyes now peering down to a wooden rafter.
‘It’s difficult, Dad. You wouldn’t understand.’
‘I want to listen and understand. That’s why I’m here,’ Cal said, wishing he was in a position to wrap his arm around him and hold his son to make him feel safe. ‘It’s just between you and me. No one else will know. Trust me.’
‘It’s embarrassing though. I don’t know if I can explain.’
‘It’s me you’re talking to.’
Jack shifted his body forward and took a deep breath. ‘Well, it started with this girl Jessica Lawrence. She’s fourteen. She kept hanging around me for ages with her sister Samantha who is my grade. It started as a bit of fun, we’d tease her a bit but when we went to a party just before Christmas she brought along her friend Chloe. Her friend was nothing like her, you know, Dad, she was really hot, much more mature and I really liked her. I still like her.’
Cal nodded. ‘And then?’ he prompted with inner relief his son was opening up.
Jack licked his lips again and let out a sigh. ‘Well, obviously I knew this Jessica was on my case. Oh God, she’d bugged me all the time ringing me and texting me and, wherever I went, she was there. It was a joke. I even told her to get a life. It stopped being funny. She was annoying but I couldn’t get rid of her.
‘Anyway, I thought I’m never gonna get rid of her. I even told her sister to tell her to back off which back-fired. She accused me of being a tease. I couldn’t believe it. Anyway, I tried to ignore them. Then, after the New Year, I got Chloe’s number, bit the bullet and rang her. She could only say no. But, I couldn’t believe it. She said yes. I told her though not to tell her friend yet and she agreed. So we dated a few times but then, I still don’t know how this Jessica found out. But that’s what I mean, this is such a small town, maybe someone saw us out. I don’t know but this Jessica went ballistic when she found out. I mean, it’s not like I was dating her but she started giving me all sorts of shit. Calling me names and texting vicious messages. Then she started giving Chloe crap, calling her names and turning everyone against her.’ Jack held his head in his hands and blinked away the moisture filling his eyes. He then swallowed. ‘I mean, she was really nasty, the names and…Chloe didn’t deserve it and neither did I.’
Cal reached out and rubbed his shoulder.
‘Well, then she…she put a post on Facebook, on her sister’s but it was her. It said I’d tried to molest her and I gave her an STD. Dad, it was horrible! All the posts and comments after it were…like saying I was sick and a user. Dad, I didn’t do anything. I don’t know how someone could make something up like that. I wouldn’t touch that! Dad. It wasn’t true but now I’m the villain. Robbie knows it’s not true and some of my mates but Dad, some, there’s a group of seniors – they called me a pervert the other day.’ Jack lips quivered. ‘I…I just want to kill myself. I can’t face being here. I tell you it’s worse than a nightmare. It’s real. I think the post was removed, but I can’t walk down the street. Everyone thinks I’m some sort of monster. Girls walk the other side of the street. Chloe has ignored me. I don’t want to be here, Dad.’
Seeing his son’s eyes fill, Cal grabbed his son’s other shoulder and pulled him closer so that their heads met.
‘Oh Jack,’ he managed with a constricted throat. ‘No wonder you’re upset. That’s really tough, mate.’ He gripped Jack’s shoulders as they shook, swallowing hard with every muscle to contain his own emotion.
Although his heart ached for his son, he considered it best to stop talking and let Jack spill out his pain. This was serious stuff for one so young. Anger fired inside him burning his chest. Stupid, silly girl. She has no idea. He doubted talking to her would improve things. No, he told himself. There’s no point. Jack was thankfully OK. And he could talk about it. He’d confided. That was a massive step, albeit just the first. He may take a while to regain his strength and dignity but he was sure they could do this.
After several minutes Cal wiped his son’s tears with his thumb then reached into his pocket.
‘It’s a bit screwed up but you can use it. It’s clean,’ he said passing the boy a tissue.
Jack took it from his hand and broke into a smile. ‘Ha, like me really.’ He blew his nose.
‘Yep. You’ve done nothing wrong so you’ve nothing to worry about. You’re dealing with a child here who hasn’t learnt the basics. Kids are like that. And it’s what growing up is all about. It isn’t pleasant, far from it, but you will get knocks in life. Most folk are nice but occasionally nasty ones come along and surprise you. You’ve heard the phrase “I’ve seen another side to him”? Well there’s the proof.’
Jack raised his eyes and nodded. ‘I could have accepted it if she’d just slapped me or punched me but no, she made it, like, public! And what the fuck did I do?’
‘Dent her pride, shatter her dream. She was hurt. Her friend betrayed her. She’d perceived it as a personal attack and wanted to get even.’
‘But why would she be so malicious?’
‘Who knows? She’s immature and doesn’t know any better I suspect. And I’ll tell you something, it will blow over sooner than you think.’
‘No it won’t. The whole school knows about it now.’
‘People are too busy worrying about their own lives, believe me. OK, so you may get a group of silly girls with nothing better to do but tease but…’
‘Dad, seniors…they’re not…’
‘Those seniors will be off to college. You won’t see them.’
‘I’m talking about now. I’ve still got a couple of months before my SATs. I can’t go back. You don’t see it do you?’
‘Jack.’ Cal closed his eyes, momentarily numbed at his powerlessness to take away his son’s wound. ‘I do. I really do. I want you to understand that for you it feels and sounds a hundred times worse than it does for anyone you know. In your mind it’s a monster – but to everyone else, it’s a mouse. You might be the butt of the jokes for a few days, weeks maybe, but like you say, you’ve done nothing wrong so why would you hide? What message does that give?’
‘These kids can be pretty sick, Dad. And it’s not you that would be facing them every day. You could probably do it because you’re older.’ He shook his head and shuffled backward. ‘I can’t.’
Cal tried to sit up and not without bashing his head. ‘Ouch,’ he grumbled rubbing it.
Jack pulled a face and guffawed.
‘Well, good to see your sense of humour hasn’t dissolved,’ Cal grinned. ‘OK. I think we should go and find some space in the house.’
‘Oh God, Dad. Mom will want to know what’s going on.’
‘I’ll tell her we want to come in and go straight to the first-floor snug. Naturally she’s concerned so I’ll tell her you only want to talk with me for now. I imagine your pop is back by now too.’
Jack clenched his teeth and leant back with a protesting sigh. ‘Aww Dad, do we have to go in?’
‘No, but wouldn’t you rather be comfortable? And we’ve almost got through all these snacks.’
‘I don’t care if I starve to death at the moment and I don’t care if I don’t see my family again. Dad. They’re not to know.’
‘Sooner or later they will know. Someone is bound to say something to your mom. Wouldn’t you prefer she hear it from you rather than a distorted version from someone else?’
Jack, again, dropped his head in his hands.
Cal began to wish he had a magic wand because his boy looked like he could do with one right now. It was possible they would be here for some time.
Chapter 7 (#ulink_b2bba0d4-29f1-5bf8-8823-d9d53085358a)
‘Well Jack, I must say, you have impressed me. OK, so you’re still worried, but you’re to be congratulated for the way you’ve handled this.’
‘What do you mean? I don’t think I’m handling it at all.’
Cal, trying to ignore the cold gnawing into his bones, crawled back on his elbows. He was tiring and he had to keep his son interested. He thought for a moment.
‘You’ve gone through a hard time and not overreacted, number one. You made a decision to return home, admittedly not indoors, but you made sure you didn’t put yourself in danger – admirable. And, in the last two hours, you’ve not only put your total trust in me but you’ve spoken about the problem, calmly. In my eyes, and my experience, that’s impressive so, another high-five!’
Jack’s lips curled upwards as he slapped his father’s palm and then he pouted his lips proudly. ‘Yes. I suppose I have.’
Brushing Jack’s hair affectionately Cal said. ‘So, tell me, what are your options?’
‘Well, I think we should go in and discuss it because you must be freezing.’
Pausing for a few seconds to look to his son for confirmation, Cal wiped his brow.
‘Great idea. Follow me.’ Cal’s muscles grumbled at his command. ‘Well, once I can reactivate these bones.’ Cal unfolded his chilled body.
Jack jumped up. ‘Ah, come on, I’ll help you. I know you’re my dad but I didn’t think you were that old. Pops, I can understand, he’s old. Not you.’
‘Ahem. I wasn’t in a sleeping bag and it’s bloody cold,’ Cal said, wriggling himself slowly backwards.
Jack scooted nimbly around him and guided his father’s legs to a step. ‘There, wait until you’re balanced.’
Gradually Cal felt the blood shimmy to his feet. ‘Thank God,’ he said beginning the descent. He jumped the last step and held the ladder firm to steady his wobbly legs.
‘Hold on,’ Jack barked, securing his trousers. ‘You go and keep mom from the lobby and hall. Tell her we’re going to hang out in the snug and I’ll wait outside and sneak past. Don’t let her come out, please?’
‘Cool. Ready.’
Cal couldn’t believe what just happened. He was convinced they’d be there all night. He peered up to the house. As expected, Kelly was at the kitchen door ready to pounce. He operated his legs in motion and marched in to her and led her inside the kitchen. She took some convincing to stay. She had Reuben bathing the children just so she could hover in case Jack came in, she’d told him. He wasn’t exactly comfortable but he stressed he’d promised Jack that was the deal and couldn’t risk him turning back. She finally relented when Cal assured her that her son was in good humour but wasn’t ready to face being questioned. She even insisted they have a warm meal she’d prepared. He did wonder if his vocation would have been easier in the diplomatic corps.
Feeling progress was at last being made, and getting a whiff of fresh herbs, he thought of Lizzie. How he wished she was here. He could really do with a warm hug and a good night’s sleep with her in his arms. His night was not over yet however and as he took a mug of coffee and a mug of chocolate from the glistening counter, he told Kelly to close the door behind him.
‘Just call if he wants to speak to me,’ she said. ‘I promise not to ask him anything. I just want to give him a hug, tell him.’
‘I will.’
After he gave the nod to Jack, he followed him up the stairs and into the snug. They were soon wrapped in soft fluffy throws and fast asleep.
Lizzie hadn’t been able to sleep much without Cal snuggled up beside her. She’d spent her nights wisely however and looked up and planned all of her and Thierry’s travel arrangements. The thought of travelling such a long distance alone with her son was a bit daunting. When they flew at New Year, Cal was amazing at keeping Thierry busy so she just hoped she had enough to keep him occupied for what would amount to about fourteen hours. She had hoped she could entice him with the prospect of a ferry ride at the other end. He would really look forward to that but the short flight to Nantucket was much quicker, and easier. She would have to find a boat ride during their stay. Seeing Cal again would be the carrot if he became irritable. She’d decided she wouldn’t mention that they would see Cal until he’d had a sleep on the flight otherwise he would get overexcited the whole journey. She just hoped her plan worked.
With just a few hours to go before setting off for their flight, Lizzie picked up her Kindle again. She read the first paragraph but her mind was still wandering back to Cal. How blessed was she to have him? It was still crazy to think back to last summer, Thierry’s third birthday. The day she’d found out Cal wasn’t her mother’s lover. After months of being convinced they were a couple, it had come as a real shock. A lovely shock though. Cal and she could admit how much they were attracted to one another. How she recalled being blown away by the fact. She’d made a real fool of herself tripping over and dropping things, not to mention almost dropping the beautiful Thomas Tank birthday cake. Then the night they’d first made love at his cottage. It was what dreams were made of. They were both so hungry for each other, and yet it was such a naturally sensual experience. Stop. Stop – you’ll drive yourself mad.
With very little sleep, Lizzie popped into the office first thing. Sophie was already working with a client. It was becoming quite normal for early and late appointments for Botox and filler treatments. Even lunchtimes. Lizzie just hoped her friend wouldn’t burn out. As the client left, Lizzie slipped in.
‘Don’t you ever sleep?’ she jested.
Sophie turned in surprise. ‘Oh, hi Lizzie. I don’t mind. Charles is working virtually twenty hours a day so I might as well be here.’
‘I don’t know why he doesn’t just move in with you.’
‘Well, that was the plan, but quite when he actually gets around to it, I’ve no idea. I’m hoping Easter when I get back from the US. I expect I will end up organising it.’
‘Have you completed on it yet?’
‘Two weeks then it’s officially mine. Exciting! I’ll get a few bits sorted. I need to speak to Jean-Luc. Anyway, aren’t you supposed to be going to the airport?’
‘Yes, just popped in to say bye. I’ve brought these in for Josephine too. She’s interviewing a couple of guys tomorrow. One I saw yesterday was good.’
‘Oh brilliant. Well you don’t want to worry about that now.’
‘Did you speak to Charles about going with you to America?’
‘Briefly. He’s preoccupied. I will though – now I’m armed with all that info you found.’
‘Good. Well, don’t burn yourself out while I’m away,’ Lizzie said hugging her friend. ‘And I’ll see you when I get back. Ring me if you need anything.’
Lizzie skipped back to her apartment. This time tomorrow she would be with Cal.
The brief stop-over wait was tedious but once on their flight to Boston, Lizzie was beamingly chuffed with herself for her forward planning. Thierry was a little treasure; colouring, doing miniature puzzles and playing games on his Leapfrog tablet. She did have to rein him in a bit when he began taking photographs of other passengers though. One lady sleeping with her mouth wide open would not have appreciated it! Once he’d tired himself out, Thierry slept. She had to wake him but that was easy. All she did was tell him that Cal would be meeting them.
After the long wait at security and two full packs of sweets consumed, they finally reached the arrivals lounge. Thierry was sat on the loaded luggage trolley as Lizzie wheeled it out when suddenly, Cal jumped out from the crowd.
‘Whoa!!’ Her heart leaped! ‘Cal.’
‘Cal,’ Thierry echoed instinctively, his arms reaching up to him. ‘It’s Cal, Mummy.’
Cal reached out for Thierry and swept him up, simultaneously grabbing Lizzie to his chest, sending her legs clinging to his knees.
‘Yes it’s Cal. I’ve missed you two, so much.’ He squeezed them both while kisses fired between them like bullets.
‘Oh, you won’t believe how much we’ve both been pining for you.’ As soon as she said it, she winced inside. Did she sound too needy? It was probably just a bit too much information.
‘Oh that’s music to my ears. It’s great to feel loved. Am I brave enough to confess my pining too? Why not? I can’t pretend otherwise.’ Cal kissed her on the nose and whispered. ‘I’ll put that right later.’
Lizzie, at once felt a surge of anticipation rush through her. Her cheeks blushed as he placed her back on terra firma, her knees buckling. ‘Ha, ha. Anyway. So happy to see you. And glad to be getting out of here.’
Swopping Thierry into the other arm and squeezing him, he said, ‘And, little man, you look great, buddy! Let’s go and find our next plane. You will love it!’
‘I can swim, Cal.’
‘You can?’
‘I swimmed in the pool wiv Mummy a long long way!’
‘That’s great news, T, well done. We’ll stick to the aeroplane for this crossing though.’
‘Not another aeroplane!’ Thierry sighed, dragging his feet.
Cal glanced at Lizzie and they mirrored each other with an empathetic smile.
‘Last one, buddy. You want to come and stay with me don’t you?’ Cal asked. ‘We have been very lucky. Jack’s mom and Pops have very kindly let us stay at their beach house. What do you think about that?’
‘Is it on the beach?’ Thierry asked as they reached the departure gate.
‘It certainly is. We can go every morning to the beach and we can paddle or ride bikes, and guess who is staying with us?’
Thierry looked up to him with searching eyes and a hesitant smile. ‘Mummy.’
‘Yes, of course, Mummy. Who else?’
‘Who else?’ Thierry repeated. ‘Is Jack going to stay with us?’
‘Yes! That’s right.’
Thierry began bouncing again at the news and then as they boarded the lighter aircraft fired more questions. It was another twenty minutes and they were in the air again before he settled with his tablet and Lizzie could finally get a word in.
‘So, how are things with Jack?’
Cal grimaced and lifted his eyebrows. ‘Well – and this is in confidence – Mum was right. There was some grief with a girl and it has seriously knocked him back. He has spoken to me about it, but he’s not ready to face school or any social normality. Rightly or wrongly, I’m trying to persuade him to go back to school and just complete his SATs but…’ He shook his head. ‘He doesn’t agree.’
He continued telling Lizzie the story so far. Giving her an account of the last six days since he’d arrived. It was hard to believe that since the first day, little progress had been made with Jack psychologically. His son was still adamant he couldn’t face going to school. Cal had visited the school Principal and between them they discussed some possible solutions, The short-term being a homebound instruction and some counselling. His only option to transfer schools was Martha’s Vineyard. There wasn’t another high school on the island. Jack agreed to the schooling but not the counselling and neither he nor Kelly felt they should push him until he was ready.
Lizzie reached across the narrow aisle and took his hand. ‘That’s really tough. It’s going to be a waiting game by the sound of it.’
‘Yes. That’s all I can do for now. Obviously, try to keep him upbeat and try to shift this idea he has of living in London out of his head. He’s too young and, to be honest, running away isn’t the answer. I don’t know. I’m not sure that it’s my selfishness or his best interest. I don’t want to return to London. Not now I’ve just got my life together.’ He squeezed her hand. ‘And, things have just come together for me. Well, for us, but I’d do it if I had to.’
Lizzie swallowed hard as her mouth numbed. ‘Needs must,’ she said, hoping it wouldn’t come to such drastic measures. ‘I’m sure we’d work something out.’
‘We’ll wait and see. Maybe in a week or two he’ll feel differently.’
Thierry chatted incessantly as they completed their journey to Nantucket Island and in the car as Cal drove down the long dark track to the beach house. Lizzie could see the lights from the dwelling getting closer and with it a mix of relief and anticipation warmed her. It stood alone out on the marshy dunes overlooking the now black sky. As they neared the entrance a face appeared at a window on one side of the house. It was Jack and then another; Kelly.
‘Jack’s looking out for you, Thierry,’ Cal said. ‘Can you see Jack?’
Lizzie’s mouth engaged before her brain. ‘Oh, is Kelly staying too?’
Cal smirked. ‘No. She’s just stayed with Jack whilst I flew over. I would have brought him but he wanted to stay put.’
‘Oh, right. Yes.’ Lizzie sat back tightening her lips.
Cal pulled up next to Kelly’s parked car.
‘I’ll get the bags if you want to get Thierry,’ he said.
Kelly opened the door as Cal stacked the bags on the wooden deck. Lizzie led Thierry to the door where Kelly stepped out and embraced her.
‘Hi, guys, Lizzie,’ she said kissing her cheek and Thierry. ‘Well look at you. My, you’ve grown even more handsome than before.’ She leant down and kissed his forehead.
‘Say hello to Kelly, Thierry. You remember Jack’s Mummy?’
‘See Jack in the house?’ Thierry asked.
‘Thierry, say hello. Where are your manners?’ Lizzie insisted.
Thierry pointed his chin up to Kelly. ‘Hello.’ He pulled a cheeky grin with mischief pouring from his eyes.
Lizzie’s eyes closed as she made a disapproving face, her head nodding from side to side.
Kelly laughed. ‘Oh, I can see you’re gonna be a real charmer with the girls, young Thierry. He knows how to woo the ladies, Mommy.’
‘Oh, no, anything but follow in his father’s footsteps. How are you, Kelly?’
Kelly stepped back with her hands on her hips and swept back her now blonder hair.
‘Over the worst, I hope. Jack’s looking forward to seeing Thierry. Take him straight in, Jack is in the lounge. I’ll help Cal with the bags and then I’m sure you’ll want a drink.’
Thierry ran to Jack as soon as he spotted him and Lizzie was so pleased to see Jack’s face light up and his arms stretch out ready to catch him.
‘Hey, bro. Good to see you,’ Jack said lifting him straight onto his lap.
It was such a sweet moment and Lizzie became quite choked. Cal’s son was so good with him. And the term ‘bro’ was pretty endearing too. She watched for a moment as Thierry introduced Jack to his figure, Raphael Turtle.
‘Well, while Cal’s taking your bags upstairs, what would you like to drink?’
Lizzie turned to face Kelly behind her. ‘Oh a coffee would be lovely.’
‘How do you like it?’
‘Oh just white, no sugar please.’
‘Pop your coats in the hall,’ Kelly said as she dashed off to the kitchen.
Lizzie, feeling rather like a spare part with Thierry’s attention diverted and Kelly rushing around after her, did as she was told and then went to join her in the kitchen.
‘It’s a beautiful place. It’s yours and Reuben’s I understand?’
‘Yes, we moved here when we first came to Nan. Great for the beach but I was too far from civilisation. Jack and Reuben loved it here but Main Street is far more practical for me and school each day. It’s only six miles but, no we rent it out most of the year now.’
‘Don’t you use it in the summer?’
Kelly tucked a mug under the coffee machine and, throwing in a capsule, hit the switch. ‘We have done on the odd occasion it’s not let. It earns too good an income and we can cycle out with the kids now. Yes, there are bikes here and a child seat. Toys, beach boards, balls, fishing gear – anything you can think of really. Help yourself.’
‘Thank you. It’s very kind of you to let us use it.’
‘Haw, no problem.’ Kelly lowered her voice and passed Lizzie her coffee. ‘It’ll be good for Jack. Hopefully it will distract his mind and little Thierry will give him something different to focus on.’
‘Such a shame it’s too cold for swimming. Thierry’s just taken his first strokes.’
‘Well, there are wet suits, but the community pool will be better suited. It’s close to town.’
Lizzie nodded, placing her hot coffee on the worktop.
Kelly beamed pearly-white teeth. ‘Cal, coffee’s here. Just how you like it, and I’ve made some of your favourite bites. They’re in the fridge, I’ll get them out,’ she told him as he sauntered in.
Lizzie caught Kelly’s eyes fixed on Cal like she was seeking approval.
‘Thanks. Presumably smoked salmon bagels. Will Thierry eat…?’
‘Oh, I’ve made the boys ham and cheese,’ Kelly cut in. ‘So, I’ll be off. Just ring if you need anything. Bye. I’ll go say goodnight to the boys.’ She pecked them both, Lizzie on the cheek and Cal, Lizzie noted, on his lips.
Lizzie clasped her fingers around her coffee mug, gripping it tight. ‘Bye and thanks, Kelly.’ She forced a smile and followed Kelly with her eyes as Cal’s ex unhooked her coat in the hall and dashed through to say goodbye to Jack and Thierry.
She focused her attention back on Cal munching away at the beautifully prepared food.
‘You’d better eat something,’ Cal said with flirty eyes. ‘You’ll be needing the energy.’
Lizzie felt heat race to her cheeks.
‘Ahem, I haven’t gone yet!’ Kelly mused, zipping up her coat. ‘Enjoy your, erm, sleep.’
Chapter 8 (#ulink_48c431d1-699c-5cde-b334-ab1dac628564)
‘Alone at last,’ Cal said sliding over and cupping Lizzie’s chin, gently brushing back the warm chestnut hair from one side of her face. ‘Your face gets more and more beautiful. I’m so glad you’re here.’ he pressed his lips to hers. Lizzie immediately caught his familiar breath and melted straight into his kiss.
‘Bye, you lovebirds,’ Kelly called as she dashed out the front door.
‘And,’ Lizzie cleared her throat as she squeezed his waist, ‘Just our two little treasures to wrap up first.’
Cal clutched her tighter. ‘Only if I let you go. God, you not only look gorgeous, you smell even more delicious than a warm apple pie. And that is the best smell in the world.’
‘Do you know, as soon as you grabbed me at the airport, your body scent hit my nostrils. It must be your pheromones. Strong pheromones at that. I don’t think I’m going to be able to control myself, she confessed watching his pupils enlarge. His hunger was evident, making her weaker by the millisecond. This man really was the most desirable being on earth, she thought. How on earth Kelly left him for Reuben, she’d never understand. And she wondered if Kelly did now regret it. When she’d met Reuben a few months ago he looked much older than she imagined. Luckily for her though, Cal was hers and that was all that mattered.
‘Oh dear, two uncontrollable adults. It will be a problem for me too. I don’t know how I’m going to keep my hands off you either this week, if I keep inhaling you Truly Scrumptious!’
‘I remember that name.’
‘Yes, that’s what you should have been called.’
‘And you can be Caractacus Potts. He was handsome, clever and a lovely father to boot.’
‘OK. I won’t disagree with you there. Let’s go and play Mummies and Daddies.’
A snigger shook inside her. Bonkers, the pair of them but she was loving bonkers more and more. It was definitely keeping her tired body awake. Sliding out of his arms, she strolled into the living room almost hurtling over the boys playing cars on the floor.
‘Well, little man, five more minutes and we’ll get you changed for bed,’ she told Thierry. ‘Is it OK to go up and see his room?’
‘Crikey, yes. Come. I’ll show you,’ Cal said.
Cal led her upstairs and into a beautifully furnished twin bedroom. Typically New England or Swedish, Lizzie was never one to distinguish the two styles very well, but the white-painted walls and floorboards rugged out and softly furnished with tasteful neutral bedding and grey-washed picture frames, made the finish quite stunning.
‘Very nice. I hope Reuben and Kelly will let us pay for our stay.’
‘You can offer but I doubt it. We’ll buy Kelly a little something.’
She pulled the curtains on both windows and took away a pile of pillows and cushions, just leaving him one. Yes, Thierry will be quite comfortable she was sure. She opened his bag and pulled out a pair of his pyjamas and a fleecy onesie to keep him snug. With it came out his spare comforter, a shabby-looking, soft-bodied Mickey Mouse.
‘I recognise that,’ Cal said wrapping his arms around her waist from behind and breathing close to her ear. ‘That was with him in his push-chair the very first day I met him in Aix.’ She turned, brushing his lips with her cheek and instantly captured his next breath with hers.
‘Not long now.’ He brushed his fingers gently down her face and then took the toy from her hand and placed it on Thierry’s bed. ‘I’m sure Jack will go to his room as soon as Thierry does. He’s got a new game console I thought may come in handy.’
Lizzie pinched his bum. ‘Always that step ahead, aren’t you?’
When Lizzie woke the following day, she panicked realising where she was and no Cal beside her. Last night’s reunion had been so amazing. It had been worth every mile she’d travelled to see him but she rubbed her eyes and looked around for her phone, she had no idea of the time. The curtains blacked the room out. The phone was still in her bag and as she tapped it awake, her heart lurched. It was gone eleven.
‘Jesus, Thierry.’ She grabbed her clothes from the floor and dashed to his room. Nothing but an empty bed, and the curtains already pulled back. She scrambled into her jeans and top, unable to avoid looking out the window. The view of the sea was fantastic but this was not the time. She ran down the stairs in search of her son.
‘Oh thank God, there you are. Why didn’t someone wake me?’ she said as she raced into the kitchen.
‘Mummy,’ Thierry squealed as she reached the dining table and planted a kiss on his cheek, observing his concentration on one of his puzzles.
‘Good morning, sweet pea. Whoa, so sorry. Mummy woke up very late.’
Cal’s eyes brightened and he stood and greeted her with a quick kiss. ‘Truly, I did call you after I showered up but you must have been exhausted. There was no stirring whatsoever. I kept a check on Thierry until he woke about nine-thirty. He’s been quietly engrossed in the puzzles for the last half hour.’
Smiling sleepily, she then forced her puffy eyes to widen. ‘Thank you. I can’t believe the time.’
Kelly got to her feet. ‘Well, it’s still morning, albeit closer to lunch. What can I get you to eat, honey? I got a turkey club, bacon and avocado, pulled pork and slaw, lobster with mayo or melted butter?’
Lizzie scratched her head. ‘Oh phew, just a coffee for the moment, thanks. In fact, you sit down, I’ll get it.’
‘Nonsense, hon! I’ll get it. I’ll take one in for Jack’s tutor too. You won’t want another coffee yet will you, Cal? I know it’s been playing havoc with your digestion.’
Lizzie shot Cal a frown. Since when, she wondered.
Cal shrugged with a surprised look on his face. ‘As Jack doesn’t have a class tomorrow, shall we tour the island or, we can go to Martha’s Vineyard?’
‘Entirely up to you. It would be nice to have a walk along the beach today. What time does Jack finish?’
‘He’ll finish at twelve and can do his homework when we come back,’ Kelly said.
‘Won’t you be picking Harry and Bea up? We can find our way around, especially as Jack will be with us.’
‘No it’s fine. I doubt a walk out here will take more than a couple of hours.’
Lizzie scratched an invisible mark on her eyelid as she glared at Cal. Alarm mounted on his face.
‘Kelly. I haven’t seen Lizzie for a whole week. Would you mind if we took the boys alone?’
Her hand shot up as her jaw slumped. ‘Yeah, right. Of course,’ Kelly said shooting her eyes in Lizzie’s direction.
The glare of indignation was palpable on Lizzie’s cheeks and sudden guilt almost led her to protest. It was probably best Cal should tell her now otherwise they may not get privacy all week. She could see the hurt in the woman’s eyes however and knew Kelly had made such an effort to make them all feel so welcome and comfortable. Lizzie soon found the perfect distraction. She glided over to the double doors leading out to the deck.
‘The views here are spectacular. Of course, arriving in the dark last night, I wasn’t prepared for all this.’ Her hand reached out in front of her. ‘The ocean on your doorstep and a huge sandy beach, it’s simply gorgeous.’
‘We are so blessed, yes,’ said Kelly slipping up beside her. ‘The surf here is great, and the sand, just so soft on the feet. And you wait until this evening. You will find it hard to beat the sunsets we have here. And I mean here. Right out on deck. It’s pretty romantic.’
‘Oh, I can’t wait. I’m a real sucker for a romantic sunset. Isn’t that right, Cal?’
Cal popped her a glance and a nod as he perched next to Thierry.
‘Well, that’s not all, the harbour and marina are not far away. You’ll enjoy it here, I guarantee it. There’s not too many people around this time of year either, hence the house being available.’
‘Yes, I was saying to Cal last night. I hope you will accept a payment from us, or me at least?’
Kelly flicked her long hair back. ‘Oh, honey, no, I couldn’t. I’m only too pleased that Jack has his father here, and Thierry. It’s an ideal distraction. I’m hoping,’ Kelly leant towards Lizzie hushing her voice, ‘Jack will go to the pool with Thierry. It will be a step forward, well, in respect of, you know, being in a public place with the possibility of bumping into people. It could increase his confidence couldn’t it?’
‘Oh, absolutely,’ Lizzie agreed. ‘I wouldn’t mention it to Thierry unless Jack is comfortable with it though. He’ll not let go once he gets wind of something.’
Kelly twisted her mouth, fixing her eyes on the vast blue of the sky and ocean. ‘Yes, I’m gonna see how Jack gets on in the next few days. Anyway, you must have something to eat before you go for your walk,’ she insisted.
Lizzie smiled as she turned to Cal. ‘Yes. Good thinking. Oh, what was the choice?’
The walk was everything Kelly had promised, glorious. A chilly breeze swept over the sand but it was great to feel the wind in her hair and the sun on her skin. Lizzie removed her shoes and let her feet sink into the soft sand on the shore as the waves bashed away repeatedly and mesmerisingly. Walking hand in hand with a barefoot Cal, his jeans rolled up, was refreshingly liberating, and dead romantic. Lizzie imagined she could almost be on a film set advertising the perfect getaway. And the boys, running and splashing on the edge of the water with their trousers also rolled up, was so endearing to watch. However British it appeared! Jack was obviously adept at keeping his younger siblings amused and was just so relaxed with her son. He had a particular knack for inventing games so Thierry was really chuckling away and having fun.
As Cal lightly squeezed her hand, she sought his eyes, watching his tousled hair rush and tumble in the breeze.
‘It’s beautiful isn’t it?’
‘Fabulous,’ she agreed.
‘I can’t believe we’ve been stuck in Jack’s room all week when we could have enjoyed all this.’
‘Probably not so romantic with Jack, but yes. If he’s come this far, maybe he will venture out more now.’ Lizzie’s twirled her arm around capturing the breeze.
‘Yes, perhaps we’re being over-protective. Oh God, who knows? How are you supposed to know what the best thing is for your child?’ Cal kicked the sand with his bare foot. ‘It’s difficult as hell. Unfortunately, I’ve not been around on a daily basis like a real parent. Mind you, neither has Reuben. I wouldn’t have thought either of us know him as well as Kelly.’
‘You can’t, surely. I’m sure my mum thought she was doing the right thing, but I construed it as overbearing and domineering.’ Lizzie peered round again at the boys. ‘I hope our relationship is much closer so we are more involved in each other’s lives and the children’s. I don’t want to be one of those mothers to just tell my son what he should do, but rather, guide.
‘Mmm. I do wonder if Kelly tries to overpower him. The way he tried to avoid her when I first arrived makes me think he’s clamouring for some peace, or space.’
Lizzie wanted to shout Hell yes that woman is controlling! There were so many similarities to her own mother. Even the last twelve or so hours Lizzie had felt constricted. Kelly was practically running the beach house as a guest house rather than letting it. As much as she appreciated her welcoming them, she didn’t expect her to be here with them all day today and do every activity with them. Then, Lizzie feared she was being a little harsh. It was Kelly’s son who was going through the trauma, and the reason why they were here. Maybe it was just her way of feeling useful in a crisis.
‘I suppose it’s hard to get a balance sometimes, and possibly it depends on the child and the dynamics of the relationship. I don’t think many teenagers talk to their parents about their problems. I know I didn’t,’ Lizzie laughed, ‘as you know.’
‘No. I didn’t share much with my parents, although Mum was, and is, a good listener. She would never have forced me to do anything I wasn’t happy doing.’ Cal flicked a mass of thick tresses from his face.
‘And, I suppose, what’s happened with Jack is extreme. Kelly didn’t have any idea and even if she did, what could she have done different?’
‘We can only do our best.’ Cal took her arm and twisted her round to face him, embracing her, knocking her off balance then, grabbing her waist, found her lips. Lizzie responded like a magnet instantly succumbing to its force. Blood rushed to her loins. It was so good to be wrapped again in his arms and kiss those lips. She truly felt she belonged to him and this blissful state was the crescendo of a long and beautiful symphony she could play time and time again. She and Cal and their little family. Quite possibly making more little additions to their family. She wished she could picture them all in their new home.
As if reading her thoughts as they prised themselves apart, Cal slipped his hand back into hers and said, ‘Maybe one day, when we make that old wreck of a house liveable, Jack can come and live with us.’
She glistened a smile knowing how much that would mean to him. Although, as a mother, she doubted he realised how much Kelly would abhor that idea. She would have to face it though if Jack was making plans. It could be a reality soon. She shuddered at the thought of Thierry leaving her one day.
Chapter 9 (#ulink_bdbac094-83ce-5d82-9a8f-ec508116e000)
By nine thirty the following day, they were at the car ready to leave to tour the island. Jack was holding Thierry’s turtle figure and climbing in as Lizzie secured Thierry in his seat. Cal was loading the back with coats and wellies. Kelly pulled up beside them and, appearing rather more made-up than yesterday, pulled out several grocery bags.
‘Good morning. Have you found the map? It’s behind Reuben’s chair.’
Cal nodded. ‘Yep.’
‘Good. I’ve brought you some fresh bread and milk, and I’ll prepare your dinner. I thought you’d enjoy a homemade chicken and ham pie.’
‘That’s very thoughtful, thank you,’ Cal told her. ‘I’m not sure what time we’ll be back though.’
‘Thank you, Kelly,’ Lizzie echoed.
‘Oh, no problem. You guys have a good day.’ Kelly dropped her bags and walked across to Jack. ‘How’s my boy this morning?’
‘Yes. All good, Mom. See you later then.’
‘Well, give your mom a squeeze.’ Kelly leant in and hugged Jack. ‘I love you, sweetheart. Have fun.’
Lizzie noted Jack shrug awkwardly as his mother shut the car door. Typical sixteen-year-old boy, she grinned to herself.
After a few hours of stopping off at beaches and lighthouses, they made a stop for lunch before heading for the whaling museum. Thierry couldn’t wait to see the giant skeleton of the sperm whale Jack had told him all about.
Whilst Thierry waited for his chicken nuggets and chips Lizzie pulled out some of his other figures from his small Superman rucksack. He began chatting to Jack about his super-heroes as he pulled out a Spider-Man, Superman and The Hulk.
‘They’re running,’ he motioned Superman to Jack.
Jack explained how many of them would run or fly to help people and save them. ‘They’re nice guys like my dad.’
‘Is Cal a super-hero?’ Thierry asked.
‘Yes, he’s my hero,’ Jack laughed.
‘Is my mummy a super-hero?’
‘Yes, she’s your super-hero. Wonder Woman maybe.’
‘Is your mummy Wonder Woman?’
‘No. She’s…’ Jack was suddenly aware that the adult ears and eyes were present. ‘Sometimes.’
‘Does your mummy fly?’
Lizzie started, aware her son was now embarrassing Jack. ‘Tell Jack how many super-heroes you have, Thierry? Count them. Ready, one, two…’
‘Three, four, five and Ironman. Mummy, where’s Ironman?’
‘In the bag, poppet, but look, here comes your lunch.’
After lunch Lizzie took Thierry out to the cloakroom.
Jack turned to his father. ‘He’s a really bright kid. Fun to be around. A shame they’re not staying longer.’
‘Yes,’ Cal smiled. ‘I’m glad you like each other.’
Leaning further in Jack said, ‘I can come to Europe. Dad, I’ll see more of you if I’m in London. I was talking to Robbie yesterday.’
Cal’s eyes narrowed. ‘I think we will have to sit down with your mom and work out a plan. My gut’s telling me it’s too soon for you to go to London.’
‘But Dad, I can stay with Robbie. Well, Robbie goes to LSE in the fall but his dad has already purchased an apartment.’
‘My point exactly. Robbie probably doesn’t even know for sure if he has a place at the LSE. He can’t know that yet. And besides, he’s put all the work in already to get his grades. This is the place we need to start at. Your mom and I will happily sit down with you so you can plan a path that’s right for you. If you’re still planning to be an architect, you’ve got to select the right courses and the best university colleges for you. Not Robbie. The best might be here or somewhere else in the UK.’
‘But I want to go to London. And soon. You know, I can finish the SATs there.’
‘Like I said before, get your SATs completed here and then we can help you decide.’
‘But, I don’t want to stay here… I need you here, Dad. I feel so much stronger with you here, I don’t want you to go. Not now. You’re a proper dad. Pops is rarely…’Jack paused. Thierry suddenly interrupted, rushing up to him holding up the action hero Spider-Man to his face. ‘Can we at least stay at the beach house when they go?’
Cal looked up as Lizzie snatched his heart just simply gliding back into her chair. He had the three people he loved and cared about right here before him, and it all appeared so perfect. What were Jack’s chances of securing his grades if he went to Europe? Jack certainly looked brighter and chirpier than last week but was it really all resting on him? Was he key here in determining his son’s emotive state and future? Was this really what fatherhood was all about? Making sacrifices? How would Lizzie react if he told her his son needed him more than her for at least the next few months? Would she accept it? Although he couldn’t bear the thought of being so far apart from her, Jack would have to take precedence. And he couldn’t expect Lizzie to stay here, May was her busiest month. It was tough on his new venture too, but, he told himself, he could hopefully weather some of that with Jes’s help. This however, would need some delicate handling.
He was ushered back to the table with Lizzie’s hand waving in his eyes. ‘Hello. Are we going to see this whale?’
‘Yes, let’s go,’ Cal said zipping up his jacket. ‘Ready, guys?’
She buttoned up Thierry’s coat and took his hand. Then Thierry snatched it away and ran to Jack.
‘Hold Jack’s hand,’ he said sidling up to him and reaching up his tiny hand.
Lizzie reached for Cal’s. ‘You’ll have to do then.’
Hooking a strong arm around her shoulder, Cal placed a light kiss on her lips ‘It looks like we’re both surplus to his needs with Jack around.’
‘Isn’t it great they get along?’
‘It’s just perfect. I wish we could all be together, permanently.’ He squeezed her.
Cal watched her breath escape and her mouth curl at the ends.
Squeezing his waist, she whispered, ‘Couldn’t you bring him home? A week or so over Easter.’
‘I’ll speak to Kelly.’
As they entered the old candle factory where the Whaling Museum was now housed, Thierry was immediately hooked by the skeletal displays of the gigantic sperm whales. He listened and asked questions as Jack led him round the museum. He was barely aware he was followed by Cal and Lizzie.
‘Oh, I think we may have a problem getting him back on the plane,’ Lizzie sighed.
Cal tightened his grip on her hand. ‘I’m sure he’ll be fine once he knows he’s going to see his gran on the way.’
‘I hope so. He’ll be leaving you and Jack. I hope he doesn’t get too upset. He’s really becoming attached.’ Lizzie twisted her mouth and blew a small sigh. ‘This is one of the reasons I was afraid to get involved with anyone. Oh God, this sounds selfish. I don’t mean it’s anyone’s fault and I know it’s only temporary. I just worry he will get hurt…’
Cal took a deep breath.
‘Lizzie, I’m not going to hurt him or you. I’ll do all I can to get back in a few weeks. I promise. We’ll tell Thierry the truth. That Jack has to stay here for a while with his tutor. He knows the tutor and has met him. I’m sure he’ll understand. He’s sharp. And he must know he’s loved.’
He tried to read her eyes. The green hues were stronger than ever today. She tucked her hair behind her ear which unsettled him. How was he to convince her that he would never mess with their lives?
Returning to the beach house, the aroma of Kelly’s chicken pie wafted under Lizzie’s nose as she climbed out of the car. A delicious homely smell full of love and comfort, yet Kelly playing wife and mother to them all, her man, her child, wasn’t lifting her mood. And she yearned to be alone with Cal.
Kelly appeared at the door, her long hair tied back but, her make-up freshly touched up.
‘Hi, you guys. Did you have a good day?’ she asked heading straight for Jack and holding out her arms, embracing her son. ‘Has this little man worn you out?’ she then said turning her attention to Thierry.
Jack grinned. ‘He’ll tell you all about the whales and the bones, that’s for sure.’
‘Oh, great. Come. I’ll get you all a drink. I hope you’ve all worked up an appetite too. I’ve baked an awesomely large pie. I hope you like it?’
Cal shot a glance at Lizzie. ‘Sounds amazing but we didn’t have lunch until late. A few hours yet perhaps.’
‘It does smell lovely though,’ Lizzie assured her, watching Kelly’s face twitch.
‘I’ll keep it on low for now. I’m sure it won’t spoil,’ she said heading for the kitchen.
Once in the house, Lizzie settled down on the floor at the coffee table with Thierry taking out his pad and pens from his bag. She drew him some whales and fishes which he tried to copy. Cal sat across from them on the sofa resting his socked feet on the footstool, and burrowing his head against a cushion. He winked at her as he watched them both and within minutes, Lizzie smiled as his eyes began to drop. She guessed all the fresh air had tired him out. And he’d had a tiring week.
Thierry then snuggled up to her and, stroking his hair, Lizzie’s eyes sank wearily into a contented slumber.
Just moments later, Kelly breezed in carrying a tray piled with pastries. ‘I thought I’d bake some of your favourites, Cal. I just know you won’t be able to resist one of these bad boys; cinnamon whirls with fresh cream.’
At once, eyes pinged on Kelly.
‘I’d love one but I’m saving my appetite for chicken pie. After dinner perhaps,’ Cal told her as his eyelids rolled back shut.
Lizzie managed a smile. ‘I think the fresh air has knocked us all out.’ And her lids fell under the weight of tiredness.
Chapter 10 (#ulink_ba7fdbd0-3526-50ba-ba14-5da84addb60c)
By the time they boarded the ferry, Lizzie was quite relieved to be out of Kelly’s lair. And if she was honest, her mind struggled with the thought of Cal being cooped up with her there. Beneath she was reeling at the thought of them spending so much time together, and in such close proximity. It wasn’t as if Jack was there all the time. And, she reminded herself, they were in love once. In fact, she was sure Kelly still found him attractive, or was it possible seeing him for who he really was for the first time had rekindled it? When Reuben had returned at the weekend, she’d noticed a contempt in their relationship, they didn’t strike her as a couple in love. Her only comfort was that Cal would be returning in less than two weeks and bringing Jack along. At least, eventually, Kelly had agreed it would be good for Jack.
Thierry, as she imagined, loved the ferry crossing from Nantucket back to the mainland. It was the longer option and, if she’d realised they were going to visit Martha’s Vineyard during their stay, she personally would have preferred the plane. Still, it meant Thierry could spend a little more time with Cal. He travelled with them all the way to Boston where they finally had to leave him and face the journey back to London, and then on to her mother’s in Kent.
As the door flew open Lizzie’s eyes sprang out. Her mother sparkled. Her hair, still in a sumptuous bob, her radiant skin, her wide smile, her trim figure. She was obviously taking good care of herself. Spotting Thierry, her mouth widened further.
‘My darlings, you flew all the way across that big ocean just to see me.’ Caroline took the bunch of white tulips from Thierry’s outstretched hand, bent down as she squealed throwing her arms around her grandson. ‘Thank you. Wow, what a difference a few months make. Lizzie, he’s lost his toddler look. You look so grown up, Thierry,’ she said hugging him so tight the he was staggering to balance. She unfurled her arms, steadying him and kissing him.
‘Grandma,’ he grinned and smacked her on the cheek with his lips. ‘I saw Jack and the whale skeletons. And Superman come and Iron Man and Spider-Man.’
‘Oh darling, how lovely, and lovely to see you again. Here let me take off your coat,’ she said as Thierry was shuffling it off his shoulders. ‘You’ve clearly had a wonderful time. And you, Lizzie darling.’
Lizzie stepped inside the door, glad to be in from the cool air, and embraced her mother. The next thing she noticed was fresh white paint gleaming from the walls and several large arty photographs of the house and vines.
‘Great to see you too. You’re looking extremely well,’ she told her mother as they exchanged kisses. ‘I just love what you’ve done to this hall too! Presumably these are Michael’s?’
‘Well, most are but he let me loose with one of his SLRs. One with a big zoom, and this was one of the results,’ she said pointing to a picture of a crowd of white crocuses. ‘I’m quite proud of that.’
‘It’s stunning, Mum.’
‘And this, a wide-angled view of the house which I then zoomed in and just loved it so, it’s up there.’
‘Latent talents, huh. It does look amazing.’
‘Well, the camera was on auto, and, we like them. And this one of Michael in the vines. I just wished we’d taken one when all the pickers were here. I’ll make a point of getting some more at the harvest. Anyway, I expect you are both tired.’
‘Pretty much, but we did get the night flight so we’ve both had sleep. Thierry was so good, there and back.’
Thierry ran into the living room and straight through to the conservatory.
‘Bike, Grandma.’
‘Yes, darling, just be careful.’ Caroline followed him pulling his little trike from the corner.
‘Oh, car.’ He pointed to a little red sit and ride vehicle.
‘Yes. Grandma bought it for you to play in.’ Caroline trotted over and opened the car door, showing him the set of keys in the ignition. ‘Here, get in and just push with your feet.’
‘Oh, Mum,’ Lizzie said following them out to the spacious conservatory observing the new stock of toys her mother now had. ‘These are fabulous.’
‘Darling, I just found these in charity shops. They’ve hardly been used.’
‘Oh thank you. Well, he’ll keep himself amused for hours with that lot.’
‘Yes, I hope so. I want him to enjoy his time here. He’ll be bored to tears in no time otherwise. There’s some little puzzles and books there too.’ Caroline waved her finger at a neatly-stacked unit. Thierry was already riding up and down in the car having placed all his superheroes in the seat beside him. ‘Aww bless. Time for a nice cup of tea.’
Caroline wiped a tear from her eye and led Lizzie to the large kitchen where Lizzie immediately felt the warmth from the Aga. She settled herself down in a cushioned chair at the oak table, closest to the radiating heat, and updated Caroline on Cal and Jack’s progress.
‘I’m sure Cal will get him through it,’ Caroline smiled fetching mugs of hot tea. ‘I really miss having him around, such a lovely lad.’
‘I hope so, yes. But he’s not exactly a lad now, Mum.’ Lizzie glanced at the back door where she very first clapped eyes on the tall muscular stranger, Cal, just ten months ago. Definitely all man, she confided to herself. Her body tingled at the memory. ‘Anyway, where’s Michael?’
‘Oh, he’s out spraying the vines. He loves it. He’s playing catch up. He was away on fashion week shoots Milan, then Paris, so he’s been busy. Still is but he’s out there when it’s dry.’
‘That’s a beautiful picture of you up there by the way. That looks like a very glamorous dress, where are you?’
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- Жанр: Современная зарубежная литература, Современные любовные романы
- Язык: Книги на английском языке
- Объём: 340 стр. 5 иллюстраций
- ISBN: 9781474036504
- Дата выхода книги: 18 мая 2019
- Версия: 📚 Электронная книга
The journey is only as good as its end…It’s been a hard journey, but Lizzie Lambert’s life is a Provençal dream come true. Her business is wildly successful, and with her little boy and the love of her life, Cal, she is making a beautiful home on the vineyard for their blended family.But when Cal goes to America to support his son through a teenage crisis, it becomes clear the kid’s not the only one with some growing up to do: Cal’s glamorous ex-wife wants to get her claws in him again. As Cal spends longer and longer away, Lizzie wonders, was it all too good to be true?Escape to Provence with Karen Aldous’ The Riviera, the perfect read for an idyllic summer. ‘A story of relationships, love and the importance of family, a romantic tale that leaves the reader with a glow.’ – Postcard Reviews‘I could have been lost in this book for months on end and I wouldn't have noticed the days slipping by…’ – Becca’s Books‘Light, easy to read and entertaining, perfect for a summer holiday read.’ – Portybelle‘A perfect book for these final summer days, to indulge in with a glass of wine or two.’ – Paris Baker (Amazon Reviewer)‘Escapism with more than a touch of reality…Karen Aldous is an author that you need on “auto order”!’ – Crooks on Books‘A great holiday read – quick, easy and entertaining!’ – Ginger Cat Blog
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