by Carol Wyer
Chapter Eighteen
Saturday, 20th January
‘Sorry we can’t drive you and Alex to the Arts Centre on Saturday but we’ve headed to Scotland to check out some new ideas for the singleton club and we won’t be back until Saturday. We’ll stop off at the centre on our way back. It’s going to be a hoot, so make sure you’re both there.’
Eleanor’s cheery message left Chloe perplexed. She’d spent two days building herself up to visit the couple again and subtly ask why William had appeared at the wrestling and now she’d have to wait to find out. She’d told Faith about the incident at Weston Hall and she’d been outraged.
‘What the fuck was he up to?’ Faith says.
‘I don’t know but he was alone. Lilly wasn’t with him and somebody told me Weston Hall is used as a wedding venue. Maybe they’re planning on getting hitched,’ Chloe replies.
‘Nah. Your decree nisi isn’t through yet and the decree absolute will take a few months after that. Besides, it doesn’t explain why he was talking to Eleanor. Maybe he’s hoping to offer some experience for you all to go on.’
‘If he is, it’ll be one I’ll avoid,’ Chloe replied.
‘Wise decision, hun. Time to end this call. I must prepare for a book fair and talk to an unhappy author who wants to jump ship from their current agent and come and join me. I’ll be needing more full-time staff at this rate. Love the new ideas for Oh, Ambassador and can’t wait to read the finished result.’
‘I’m a hell of long way off finishing,’ says Chloe. ‘I’m only on the first draft.’
‘Ah, you’ll belt through it. You’ve got your writing mojo back and a sound plot.’
Chloe is pleased. It matters greatly what Faith thinks about her work and she trusts Faith’s instinct implicitly. She’s enjoying writing the book: the characters are now taking on a life of their own and the subplots are shaping up nicely.
‘If I were you, I’d ask Eleanor what William was doing there and explain your relationship – or lack of it. At least you’ll be in the know and it won’t distract you any more.’
‘I’m not distracted,’ Chloe protests.
‘You are. You’ve popped at least twenty-two Maltesers in your mouth, one after another, since we started this conversation, and I bet you’ve almost finished the bag. You always scoff chocolate when you’re bothered by something.’
Chloe picks up the family-sized bag and peers inside. Only three remain. ‘Crap. That means I can’t have an extra glass of wine with dinner.’
‘You dieting?’
‘Calorie counting and trying not to go over fifteen hundred a day. Wearing that awful Sumo suit reminded me how much weight I had started to put on.’
‘You look lovely. Don’t go mad. I don’t want a skeletal friend. There’s only room for one undernourished skinny in this relationship.’
Chloe beeped her horn and waited for Alex to appear. It took only seconds for him to lock up his house and join her. He leapt into the Kia with ease.
‘This seems odd – just the two of us going to an event.’
‘At least it’s not far away so we won’t get lost. I’m not great at navigation,’ she answered.
‘That’s why Sat-Navs were invented. I’d get lost all the time if it weren’t for mine. I’d hoped to catch you before now for a chat but it’s been mental at the site. Well, you’ve probably noticed with all the row we’re making, and I’ve been up to my eyeballs in meetings with planning committees. You’d think we were attempting to build the Shard, not develop a site.’
‘Is it difficult then?’
‘Nightmarish. Trying to get applications accepted and relevant permissions and then get the electricity board and gas to agree as well – complete headache. I don’t know how dad stuck it for so long.’
‘How is Thomas? I’ve not seen him for ages.’
‘That’s because he’s cleared off to Tenerife with my mum for a few weeks. He doesn’t like the cold weather. Plays havoc with his arthritis. They’re renting a villa there.’
‘Nice.’
‘Alright for some, isn’t it? Still, if he can’t take time off for a while at his age, who can? Ashleigh’s gone back to Bristol so there’s only me in charge.’
‘Lots of responsibility.’
‘I have wide shoulders. I’ll cope,’ he replied, eyes crinkling. ‘What about you? How’s it all going?’
‘Oh fine. Writing, dog walking, planning on what to do with the garden when the weather gets better, searching for more furniture for the place. It takes forever to purchase everything you want – new towels, sheets for the spare bed, matching duvets. I get absorbed for hours tracking down the exact colour yellow throw to harmonise with the cushions for the bed.’
He barked a laugh. ‘If only. I’ve got a load of stuff from my mum and sister so none of it matches. It’d be nice to be coordinated. I’m not very good at all at that sort of thing. Dad is. I’ve got an eye for architecture and interior design but not for those final touches that make a place stylish.’
‘What about your last place?’
‘Caravan on a site in Spain. No need for anything other than basics.’
‘And before that?’
He suddenly steered the conversation to a new supermarket being built. ‘That’s going to be a monster of a place. Glad I’m not in charge of that construction.’
They’d arrived on the outskirts of Uttoxeter and found the Arts Centre without any difficulty. There were only two other vehicles in the car park, one of them Fairfax’s Nissan.
‘Looks like we’re the first to arrive,’ said Alex.
‘Sean could be here. He was walking. His bookshop isn’t too far away.’
‘I’ve not visited it. What’s it like?’
‘Lovely. So charming.’
‘I can’t remember when I last read a book. Oh hang on. It was one my mother got signed by the author recently.’
‘No. You read it?’
‘Had to know what the fuss was all about. No wonder you wanted to get away from Appletree. What a bunch!’ he gave a wide grin.
‘I made up most of it,’ she protested.
‘Made up or not, it was very entertaining.’
‘Good. I’m pleased. You haven’t said anything, have you?’
‘No. I still haven’t told anyone.’
‘I told Sean. He tried to give it to me to read.’
Alex burst out laughing. ‘That’s priceless! I’d love to have seen his face when he found out he was giving it to the actual author.’
‘He was a little embarrassed, but I was too, so that helped.’
‘I won’t say a word.’
‘Good. I’m working hard to maintain anonymity.’
Jacqueline’s bike arrived with its usual roar. She pulled up close to the building, some distance from Chloe’s car, and dismounted. As she removed her helmet, Sean jogged up to her. Alex unbuckled his seatbelt and had one hand on the passenger door handle when she stopped him.
‘No. Don’t go yet. Stay here. Pretend we’re engaged in deep conversation.’
‘Ok-ay.’ Alex glanced at her, a furrow appearing between his brows. ‘Any special reason why?’
‘I suspect Sean might be inviting Jacqueline out on a date. He asked me if I thought she’d accept. I think he might be doing it now before everyone turns up.’
Alex peered across.
‘No. Don’t stare at them. Be subtle.’
He grinned. ‘Like you, you mean? Your neck is craned so much, you look like a meerkat on sentry duty.’
She shrank back down in her seat. ‘Funny!’
‘You can use that line in your next book if you want. You’re welcome,’ he added.
She shook her head with a smile. His boyish grin put her at ease.
‘Ah! Judging by the head-nodding and smiles, I’d say she’s said yes. Can we get out now or shall we continue our deep conversation?’
Jacqueline and Sean disappeared through the glass doors.
/> ‘Okay. We’ll go now.’
* * *
Jacqueline, now standing next to Kaisha and Danielle, waved enthusiastically at them both as they entered the room, a large empty space consisting of little more than a wooden floor that reminded Chloe of her school gymnasium. A notice board to the left contained posters and announcements of future events, largely coffee mornings, exercise classes and choir rehearsals. Chloe broke away from Alex who went to join Sean and Tim, and headed towards the women, pleased she didn’t feel the dreaded panic that usually accompanied such moments. She greeted the women and politely asked about their families.
‘I’ve got the weekend off,’ said Danielle. ‘No kids. No housework, no meals and no breaking up arguments. All three are at friends’ houses. First time ever. I don’t want to waste the opportunity. I was just asking if the girls fancied going out somewhere later. Pub maybe. Do you fancy joining us?’ Chloe was taken aback. These women wanted to spend time with her. She nodded, all the while wondering how to get out of it.
‘That would be lovely.’
‘Great. We’ll sort it out after this event. Here come the others.’
As Danielle left to say hello to Neats and Rob, Jacqueline grabbed Chloe gently by the arm and whispered, ‘Sean’s invited me out. I’m going back to his bookshop after this event to find out where we’re going. It’s a surprise. How exciting! I love men who can surprise me.’ Her face suddenly changed. ‘Oh! I think I know what we’re going to be doing today.’ Chloe followed her gaze. Two authentic-looking tribesmen wearing traditional Maori costume and make-up had walked into the centre, followed by Eleanor and Fairfax.
‘Hi, everyone. This is Nico and Tane, tribesmen from New Zealand. They’ve obtained special permission from their tribal elders to teach the Haka to groups at team-building events and have come here today to pass on their knowledge. Fairfax is going to be joining in on this one to make up equal numbers and we have two new members of our club coming along too, so it’ll be a great way for you all to break the ice. Nico, over to you.’
She stepped away leaving the floor open for the tribesmen. Nico, squat, wide and ferocious-looking with his war paint gave a warm smile that transformed his face. ‘Hello. You’ve probably all seen the Haka performed on television. Traditionally it was used as a war dance for the indigenous Maori people of New Zealand, and then more recently for the New Zealand All Blacks rugby team. It’s become increasingly well-known thanks to prestigious events such as the Invictus Games. It is our privilege to tell you about it and teach you about this powerful dance. Let’s demonstrate what we mean.’
He and Tane suddenly launched into the war dance with such energy, the floor of the building trembled with each footfall. Chloe watched, mesmerised by their coordination and passion. As they came to the end of their dance and acknowledged the applause, she turned to Alex whose eyebrows had lifted in approval.
‘Impressive,’ he whispered.
‘This’ll be a laugh. I can’t wait to see Sean and Rob perform this,’ said Jacqueline, on the other side of Chloe.
‘First, we’re going to teach you the words and learn the dance then, we’ll show you how to apply the traditional war paint we call “moko”, and then it’ll be your turn.’
Eleanor spoke up ‘And, we’re going to record your performance for our website!’
‘We’ll divide the group into two so both Nico and I can go through the words and movements with you and you’ll meet up at the end to perform together. Have you any questions?’
Nobody spoke. Nico had stunned them all into silence. Then with a sudden movement, he slapped his meaty thighs gave another ear-splitting grin and said, ‘How about we go straight down the middle? I’ll take everyone standing on the left and Tane, you take everyone on the right and the two people, hovering by the door. Too late guys. You can’t escape now.’
Eleanor turned around quickly. ‘Hello! Welcome. Everyone, meet our two new members. There’s Michelle on the left and William on the right.’
Michelle, a short, dumpy woman in her fifties waved furiously. ‘Hi.’ The man beside her gave a smile and lifted his hand in greeting. Chloe’s insides turned liquid. How could he? Why was he doing this? And where was Lilly? She had no time to actually ask him the questions. Nico was rounding up his group: Chloe, Alex, Jacqueline, Sean, Rob and Neats, and directing them to the far side of the room.
Alex took in her concerned look. ‘Don’t give him a second thought.’
She swallowed hard. Her voice was unsteady and weak. ‘But why is he here?’
‘It doesn’t matter. What matters is that you’re here and we’re going to do this dance together. Besides, I can’t do this on my own.’
‘Neither can I. Forget him for now. You’re part of our team, Chloe,’ said Sean.
His words echoed in her head. She couldn’t up and leave. It would draw far too much attention to herself and besides, she liked being with these people. Nico looking ferocious, took up his position in front of them. ‘We’re going to learn the war dance with which you might be familiar, often performed at rugby matches, called Ka Mate Ka Mate. You’re going to perform it like proper warriors.’ He gave a stern nod. His entire aura commanded respect, and Chloe didn’t feel as she usually did when meeting strangers. She would draw from his strength and become a warrior. She wasn’t going to let William ruin this for her.
* * *
‘Oh, my goodness! Who’d have thought it would be this much fun?’ said Jacqueline.
Neats agreed. ‘I think I’ve strained my tongue.’ She stuck it out. ‘Yes, definitely feel strained.’
Jacqueline continued. ‘I was convinced the words were “cuppa tea, cuppa tea Nora”. That’s what they always sounded like to me. Now I know differently.’
Rob had been getting his make-up applied and suddenly looked quite the part with magnificent black swirled markings on his face. Neats checked him out. ‘You look great,’ she told him. He stuck out his tongue and snarled.
‘Wow! And scary!’
‘It’s much like getting made up for panto,’ he replied, peering at the finished result in her compact mirror. ‘Although it makes a change from looking like Widow Twanky or an ugly sister.’
Sean and Alex were going through the words and moves together, slowly, ensuring they were in synchrony. Chloe was the last in the group to be made up. An hour of chanting, thigh slapping, face pulling and dance movements that made them laugh at each other had eased any tension they might have felt at first. Nico had been an incredible instructor, patient and fun at the same time. She’d not had any opportunity to look at the other group to see how they were progressing, although judging by their loud chants, they were enjoying it just as much. Now she had time to, however, she resisted the urge to seek out William.
Nico daubed gently on her cheeks. ‘I won’t do it heavily,’ he said. ‘It should come off with ordinary wipes. We provide packets for use after the performance, so you don’t have to go home looking like this.’ His voice was calming.
‘Do you miss New Zealand?’ she asked.
‘Very much. I miss my family. Tane and I are both returning to New Zealand in March. We’ve been here six months and that’s too long to be apart from friends and family, and I have a five-year-old son. I want to return to him, be his father again.’
He continued with light touches, his eyes like dark conkers checking her over, ensuring he did his job perfectly. Like the war dance, it was important to him. Chloe picked up on it.
‘This war dance, it’s very special to the Maori people, isn’t it?’
‘Yes. It is not a joke to us. We take huge pride in it and although we recognise the commercial value in teaching it to people at events such as this, we still want people to respect it and us. We hoped to raise people’s awareness about the Maori tribes by bringing the Haka to the western world. In a way, we are hoping to educate and entertain. There, you now look like the brave warrior you are within.’ He stood back to admire his handiwork.
/>
His words filled her with confidence. They echoed Nanny Olive’s message to her. ‘Thank you.’ There was a sense of wanting to perform the dance properly for him and for Tane, the way they would want it recreated, to do their efforts justice, a feeling that she expected the other singletons shared with her. Nico clapped his hands and folded his arms across his wide chest. Tane mirrored his stance with equal solemnity.
‘You have done well today and we both have been impressed by your commitment. It’s now time for the performance when both halves will come together. Please get into position at the front of the room.’
A sudden seriousness fell across the room. Even Fairfax who usually treated everything flippantly looked fierce and intense. Chloe resumed her spot between Jacqueline and Neats. Alex, Rob and Sean were in front of them. Opposite were Tim, William and Fairfax and behind them, Eleanor, Danielle and Michelle.
Both groups began the war dance with facial gestures – bulging eyes and tongues displayed from opened mouths – before beginning the stamping, swaying and chanting that was the war dance. Chloe was grateful Fairfax had been placed in her direct line of sight. He was completely immersed in the moment and as he rolled huge eyes and made gestures at them, none of it felt silly. They were clapping rhythmically and chanting in time. They were working as one – a tribe. A rush of elation swept over her. She’d never been part of anything like this before, and she became more vocal and went through the movements to the sound of the beat. It was rigorous and fun and when it was over, they cheered each other.
* * *
‘Better than a gym workout,’ said Neats as she removed the markings from her face with a wipe.
‘I thought I might leave my makeup on. It’d go down well in the pub. I wonder if it’ll last long enough so I can scare my kids,’ Danielle said.
Jacqueline joined them in the toilets. ‘Just spotted Fairfax performing a private Haka for Eleanor outside. Gave a whole new meaning to private dancer. Who’s got the facial wipes? I need to take this off and reapply my usual war paint. I’m going back with Sean to discuss a suitable date. What a hoot that was.’
