Echoes of Grace

by Caragh Bell

  ‘Well, not a bridesmaid exactly.’ Laura refused a glass of juice from a hovering waiter. ‘We just need two witnesses: you and Luca.’

  ‘Luca?’ Aurora’s eyes widened.

  ‘Look at you,’ mocked Colin. ‘Who has a thumping crush on my cousin-in-law?’

  Aurora blushed. ‘I do not!’

  ‘Anyway, it will be the four of us in the town hall and then a posh dinner at the hotel. Then, we’re off on safari.’

  ‘Was there a mention of a pre-nup?’ asked Val. ‘Americans love those when there’s money involved.’

  ‘Well, we did have a document drawn up.’ Laura looked uncomfortable. ‘It’s more to protect Luca and Sienna. You know, with Mimi’s legacy.’ She stood up. ‘I’d better join my fiancé for breakfast.’

  ‘Well, congratulations, Laura. We wish you the best.’ Colin waved and the waiter appeared straight away. ‘Another Bloody Mary, young man. Heavy on the Tabasco.’

  Chapter Forty

  Two weeks later, Aurora went for a run in Central Park. The sun was going down over the great trees that lined the walkways and her iPod was on ‘shuffle’ mode. She’d had a gruelling day at the studio. The director wanted all the takes of Lincoln’s speech reshot as he wasn’t happy with the lighting. She had to stand for hours as Brad Munroe, who was playing Abraham Lincoln in the show, delivered his lines over and over again. ‘Day Lewis is a hard act to follow,’ he grumbled, fed up of wearing a top hat.

  Venice seemed like months ago as her life had been a whirlwind since then. She had planned on flying to London before returning to New York. Gloria had emailed saying that Henry had been sick with the flu and was still recovering. Then Harry had called when she was at the airport, telling her that the Scarlett audition had been brought forward and she needed to get back to the States right away. Laura and Christian had flown off together so she had made the journey back alone.

  She had also planned to track down James in London to clear the air. Despite three phone calls and four texts the morning after the wedding, it had taken him almost a week to reply. Even then, his email was short and curt, a minimal message telling her about his new job in Africa and how he and Claire had made an offer on the house they wanted. Since then, he had barely been in touch.

  She stopped at a bench and took a swig of water. The evening was her preferred time to run as the heat of the day had dissipated and the shade of the trees cooled her down. She was anxiously waiting for news on her Scarlett audition, but to date nothing had come through.

  Two days after her return from Italy, she had made her way to Harry’s office where she met with the director, Carey McGrath. She had practised her lines, singling out the scene where Scarlett refuses to be beaten by hunger and poverty. Facing him in Harry’s small office had been nerve-racking. He was the hottest director in town, fresh from an Oscar-nominated film and rave reviews. She was taken aback by his small frame but his blue eyes were friendly and kind and they put her at ease right away.

  Instead of requesting an interpretation of a scene, he had asked her why she would like to play Scarlett O’Hara. Biting her lip, she paused and reflected. What appealed about this Southern Belle?

  ‘Well,’ she began, ‘I admire her strength. I admire how she refused to be beaten and knew how to survive. I like how spoilt she was, even how she manipulated and used people to get her way. Life knocked her down but she got back up again.’ She paused. ‘She had flaws – real human flaws.’

  Carey took notes and smiled encouragingly. ‘Anything else?’

  She smiled. ‘My mother was Irish so I feel a connection to Tara. I love Scarlett’s wild Irish side which had to be tamed under the strict societal rules of Confederate America.’ She flicked back her hair. ‘I’m quite good at the accent also.’

  He nodded, writing furiously. ‘Thank you.’

  That had been nearly two weeks ago. Now, she was waiting and waiting. Harry said he couldn’t call it. Carey was enigmatic to say the least and hadn’t given any indication of his decision. Every time her phone rang, her heart jumped. It was always Laura, William or Ophelia, never Carey McGrath. In the end, she gave up. He would get in touch eventually. She just had to be patient.

  Bertie was sipping champagne when she arrived at the Four Seasons. He was in town for the weekend and had arranged a catch-up lunch. He kissed her on each cheek and smelt of Paco Rabanne.

  ‘Aurora! It has been too long, my sweet.’ His grey hair was slicked back and his manicured nails held a champagne flute from the base. He was dressed as ever in a jacket and cravat.

  People were staring from around the bar. He was Albert Wells after all.

  ‘You look wonderful,’ she said genuinely. ‘How was the wrap party?’

  ‘Oh, the usual – too much of everything. Dom Perignon flowing, cocaine on every available surface. Ended up as a raging orgy of course.’

  ‘Any scandal?’

  ‘Me?’ He looked shocked. ‘I had a polite flute of bubbly and retired to my bed. My orgy days are over, darling.’ He filled a glass and handed it to her. ‘Let’s toast! To your possible role as Scarlett.’

  ‘It’s looking less possible with every passing day,’ she said gloomily. ‘He could at least let me know so I can get on with my life.’

  ‘Directors are all the same: vainglorious control freaks who play with us like marionettes.’ Bertie regarded her for a moment. ‘It will happen for you, you know. I believe in destiny. If Scarlett doesn’t work out, then it wasn’t meant to be. Never stop believing.’

  ‘I suppose.’

  Soft jazz played in the background and the bar was half full. Bertie regaled her with stories about his latest film shoot and she found herself laughing out loud.

  ‘So, my birthday is fast approaching,’ he said with a dramatic sigh. ‘Age undisclosed, I’m afraid. 2016 has been a dreadful year for my kind, so I’m living each day to the full.’

  ‘I’m still mourning Alan Rickman,’ said Aurora.

  ‘Quite.’ Bertie refilled their glasses. ‘Capital fellow: a wonderful actor and friend.’ He clinked his flute against hers. ‘I have a request but feel free to refuse.’

  ‘Oh?’

  ‘I’m planning on having a huge party to celebrate my fast approaching old age. It will be a James Bond theme, from costumes to shaken not stirred martinis. I was wondering if you would do me the honour of singing? Just the theme tunes from all the films.’

  ‘Me?’ she squeaked.

  ‘Yes, you.’ He smiled affectionately. ‘Who better to belt out Bassey? I would be delighted.’

  Aurora glowed with pleasure. ‘I’d love to! I mean, I’d be thrilled. I’d have to familiarise myself with the music but . . .’

  ‘It’s in three weeks. I’m hiring a yacht next week and cruising around the Riviera. Then back to London for my little soirée. There will be lots of important people there, my darling. I want them to hear your beautiful voice.’

  ‘Oh, Bertie, you’re so good to me.’

  ‘Not at all. It’s you who’s doing me the favour. I’ll pay for your flights, of course. Just send me the details.’

  ‘Well, I’ll be in Antibes for my sister’s wedding the week before so I could just fly back to London afterwards.’ She beamed. ‘I’ve been meaning to spend time with Daddy anyway.’

  ‘Smashing. Now, let’s go and eat something ridiculously overpriced and enjoy ourselves.’

  Two weeks later, Aurora stepped off the plane in France and the heat hit her straight away: that muggy dead heat filled with petrol fumes from the runway. Nice airport was small and she quickly made her way to the main terminal building. Gloria had promised to pick her up as she and Henry had flown out earlier in the week and hired a villa near Juan Les Pins.

  Laura had kept her word – it was just immediate family for a very low-key affair. William had declined his invitation, simply because Ella was due to give birth any day. Laura was disappointed but she had masked it well. It was just unfortunate timing. James and Clai
re had flown out the day before as she had managed to get four days off from the hospital.

  Aurora was the last of the family to arrive. She was just back from L.A. after a four-day stint on a film set. She had trained herself to forget about Carey McGrath. Ophelia had sent her some mindfulness exercises to practise. It was all out of her control and feelings of frustration were futile.

  Sure enough, Gloria was waiting at the front door of the airport, a parking ticket in her right hand. Her skin was golden brown from the French sun and her hair had streaks of white-blonde. She looked relaxed and happy.

  Aurora hugged her tightly. ‘It’s so good to see you!’

  ‘Likewise. We miss you, sweetheart.’

  ‘How’s Laura?’ she asked as they walked outside.

  ‘Oh, she’s been at the spa all day. She booked every appointment available. Luca and Lydia arrived this morning as well, so we’re all meeting for dinner later.’

  They reached a BMW coupé and she pressed the key to open the door. As soon as they were strapped in, she activated the air conditioning.

  ‘It’s been so hot,’ said Gloria, fanning her face. ‘Your father has spent most of his time indoors.’

  ‘How’s Daddy?’

  ‘He’s much better. It was just a nasty cold. Odd time of year to have it, I’ll grant you that, but that’s how it goes.’ She indicated out onto the road. ‘I suspect he picked it up on that flight to Singapore last month.’

  ‘Any news from Will?’

  ‘Nothing yet. Her due date is tomorrow so it’s intense.’ Gloria sighed. ‘I’m just not ready to be a granny.’

  ‘A glamorous granny,’ corrected Aurora, smiling. ‘You look fantastic.’

  Soon they were on the motorway. Gloria stayed at a steady pace as cars efficiently overtook her. The roads were smooth and in perfect condition so the car ate up the miles.

  ‘How’s James?’ Aurora asked casually, fiddling with a bracelet on her wrist.

  ‘Oh, he’s fine. He and Claire went on a boat trip today so he could take some photos. She cut her hair again. It’s back to the short bob. I’m not sure it’s the best look for her.’

  ‘Any news on their wedding?’

  ‘No, nothing. It’s odd really. It feels like they’ve been engaged for years.’ She indicated out onto the fast lane to overtake a lorry. ‘She’s adamant that they buy this semi-detached place near her parents’ house. He’s not too keen. I guess they’re saving all their pennies for that.’

  Aurora said nothing. She just stared out the window at the passing hills dotted with houses. She still couldn’t imagine James in a semi-detached house in suburbia. It didn’t fit.

  The Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, the luxury hotel Laura and Christian had chosen for their wedding, was situated on the shoreline of the famous Côte d’Azur. It was a large majestic building at the end of a long driveway with an oceanside pool and lush green gardens. It was the hotel Christian had brought Laura to for their very first weekend away together. Gloria pulled up outside the main door and helped Aurora with her bag.

  ‘Go and check in, sweetheart. They’re expecting you. The pool is lovely so take a dip and relax. Henry and I will be over later.’ She opened her car door. ‘We’re leaving the villa at Juan Les Pins today so it’s hectic. They expect you to clean it and strip the beds.’

  ‘Daddy is cleaning?’

  ‘Probably not. He was working on the second act of his new play when I left.’

  ‘What time will you be back?’

  The BMW roared to life. ‘Around five. We’re staying here for three more nights before we return home. Laura mentioned drinks at the bar at six so we’ll see you there. Bye, darling.’ She drove off, past the palm trees blowing in the ocean breeze.

  Taking Gloria’s advice, Aurora checked in and went straight to the pool. She saw Luca first. He was by the pool in small black shorts, his torso brown from the sun. Lydia, who had paler skin, was under an umbrella in a green bikini. Sienna, gloriously chubby, was playing in the sun in a frilly pink swimsuit.

  ‘Hi!’ Aurora called, walking towards them.

  Lydia smiled and waved. ‘Hello! We’ve been waiting for you to arrive. How was your flight?’

  ‘Oh, you know, the usual. Children screaming and no overhead locker space.’ She sat down on the lounger next to Lydia’s, removing her black see-through chiffon wrap to reveal a gold bikini. Her long brown hair was wound up into a messy bun and her eyes were concealed behind large Prada shades. ‘How was your honeymoon?’

  ‘Sweet,’ drawled Luca, ‘but I guess that’s why they call it honey, right?’ He turned around and dived into the water, his muscles rippling as he swam off down the length of the pool. Lydia squirted some sun cream on her belly and rubbed it in. Her diamond ring sparkled in the afternoon sun.

  ‘I love your engagement ring,’ said Aurora enviously, gazing at the large solitaire diamond set in white gold.

  Lydia held up her hand and squinted. ‘The diamond’s a bit big for me, but it belonged to Mimi so Luca likes when I wear it.’

  ‘Laura’s diamond is bigger,’ said Aurora. ‘She absolutely adores it.’

  ‘That’s Laura all over.’ Lydia giggled. ‘No surprise there.’

  Luca flipped backwards and did another lap, his strong arms making powerful strokes in the clear water.

  ‘How’s Luca about tomorrow?’ asked Aurora. ‘It must be strange for him.’

  Lydia shrugged. ‘He’s not over the moon, but he’s adjusting. He never expected his parents to stay together, but I think he finds Laura’s age a bit weird.’

  ‘Gloria finds that odd as well.’ Aurora stretched out on the lounger and opened the belt of her wrap. ‘I, however, think it’s wonderful. They’re lucky to have found love.’

  ‘Absolutely.’

  Sienna poked her mother’s leg. ‘Pool?’ she said, pointing to the water.

  Lydia groaned. ‘It’s Daddy’s turn. Look, he’s swimming over there. Mama needs some down time.’

  ‘Pool,’ repeated Sienna. ‘Mama, pool.’

  ‘Ah, Sienna. Back off and plague your dad, will you?’ Lydia put her head back and closed her eyes. ‘I want to relax.’

  ‘Mama!’

  ‘Oh fine.’ She got to her feet. ‘Just for a few minutes.’ She took her daughter’s hand and led her over to the steps leading into the water.

  In the pool, Sienna splashed Lydia immediately. Lydia pretend-screamed.

  ‘Mama! Mama!’ laughed the little girl.

  Luca swam up beside them and grabbed Sienna.

  ‘Dada! No!’ He whirled her around and around in the water, making her shriek.

  Then, sitting Sienna on the edge of the pool, he caught Lydia around the waist and ducked her under the water. Sienna clapped her hands in delight.

  Lydia resurfaced, spluttering. ‘You’re dead!’ she said, shaking her fist at Luca.

  Luca laughed and pulled Sienna back into his arms.

  Aurora watched them. The pool brought back memories: memories she didn’t want to deal with. Not now. Not when she had to meet him and act like nothing happened. She had never felt more confused in her life.

  After a long hot shower, Aurora gave herself a good talking to. There was no need to feel awkward. They had both been drinking and it was all a bit hazy now. Nothing happened. She would just go down to the bar and act like she always did.

  She looked at her reflection in the mirror. She had chosen a white dress with a fitted waist and a full skirt. It had short sleeves and a plunging neckline. Simple strappy sandals and a touch of make-up and she was ready. She decided to leave her hair free – it flowed down her back, slightly wavy from the shower. She sprayed some perfume on and, picking up her room key, walked out the door.

  The family were seated at a table on an outside balcony, looking out over the blue sea. White parasols lined the railing but they had all been taken down as the evening sun was milder. She scanned the group and was relieved to see that James wasn’t there.


  Henry saw her first. ‘My darling!’

  She was instantly struck by how old he looked. Being sick had rendered him thin and wan. He had obviously been avoiding the sun as his skin was lined and pale.

  ‘Daddy!’ She hugged him tightly. ‘I’m so sorry it’s been so long. Work has been so busy.’ She breathed in his familiar smell.

  ‘Not to worry,’ he said into her hair. ‘I’m delighted that it’s all happening for you.’

  Laura was in a short blue dress and high black heels. Her diamond solitaire dominated her small hand and her blonde hair was slicked back. The day at the spa had worked wonders: she looked relaxed and groomed. Christian was by her side, wearing a white shirt that was open at the neck.

  ‘There’s champagne on the table if you want,’ he said in his American twang.

  Aurora smiled and nodded.

  ‘Isn’t this place just heavenly?’ said Laura. ‘I could stay here forever.’

  Luca was playing ‘Horsey Horsey’ with Sienna who kept saying ‘Again, again, Dada!’

  Claire waved. ‘Hi, Aurora,’ she said.

  ‘Hi, Claire. Did you enjoy your boat trip?’

  ‘Oh, it was terribly overpriced.’ She made a face. ‘Daddy warned me about this part of the world. They’re out to rook you from the moment you arrive.’

  ‘Lucky you’re not paying for most of it,’ Luca drawled, deciding that he didn’t really like this new addition to the party.

  Lydia poked him in the leg and glared at him. ‘So,’ she said, changing the subject. ‘Thank you for having us.’

  Christian shrugged. ‘Hey, it’s just a dinner. There won’t be dancing and speeches.’

  ‘Hallelujah,’ said Luca.

  ‘We just wanted something small and meaningful.’ Laura took Christian’s hand. ‘This is the happiest time of our lives.’

  Gloria held up her glass. ‘Best of luck, darling!’

  ‘Best of luck!’ they all chorused.

  ‘It’s a pity Will isn’t here,’ said Aurora sipping her drink. ‘Any news on Ella?’