by Lotte Moore
“I’m so worried that I can’t help him emotionally, and when the baby comes I’ll need him around more.”
“Have you talked about it together?” asked Beady.
“No, he’s so stressed half the time it’s difficult to get near him.”
“Well, I’ll be there when the baby arrives.”
“Thanks Mum,” said Vivi, hugging her.
Serena and Cheryl returned with Alicia, Georgie, Benjie and Freddie close behind.
“I’m starving. Can I have some crisps, Gran?” asked Alicia.
“Actually no!” Vivi handed them each a banana. “These grow here. Have you seen the bunches of them dangling from those tall trees?”
“Come on, let’s read a story,” called Lang, putting down the newspaper he’d been flicking through.
A few minutes later the children were settled on the sitting room floor as Lang started reading Treasure Island aloud. Even little Benjie became absorbed.
“Shall I hand round drinks, Mum?” asked Jonty from the kitchen.
“Yes, please do.”
“I’ll lay the table,” offered Cheryl. “The flowers were fantastic by the way.”
Half an hour later the whole family were devouring fish pie, followed by fruit salad and ice cream.
“Tomorrow I’m taking everyone on an exciting trip,” Serena announced.
“Where to?” asked Jonty, raising his eyebrows.
“Wait and see,” replied his sister in her usual bossy way.
*
After breakfast, everyone followed Serena to the nearest bus stop, except Vivi, Theo and Jago. As they neared the centre of Funchal, she pointed to the cable car.
“We’re going on the funicular all the way up to see the tropical gardens.”
The children were very excited as they jumped off the bus. Jonty and Cheryl walked on ahead to stand in the queue. They boarded the car whilst it was stationary and held tight as it gripped the cable again and started up the steep mountain. The cabin swayed a lot and Cheryl looked very anxious as Serena pointed at various exotic trees on the way up.
They arrived at a fantastic forest with wonderful tropical flowers. Long steps wove deeply down into the wooded valley and a stream trickled alongside the cobbled paths.
“Go and explore,” called Serena as the kids raced on ahead.
Lang suggested they all meet by the nearby Geological Museum in two hours. He followed the children, holding Benjie by the hand. Jonty and Cheryl were amazed by the variety of the shrubs, trees and flowers and trundled off on their own.
Meanwhile, Vivi had taken Jago to the beach for a paddle. Theo was in a sombre mood, reading on the veranda, and Beady was bustling round the house tidying up the debris.
Theo answered his mobile as soon as it rang. “Hi Sergei, what’s new?” he asked.
“Well the recording date has been arranged. We’ll have three weeks to practice in Moscow, and Murel is already rehearsing the orchestra. Are you having a nice family holiday?”
“Yes, it’s relaxing, but I’m missing you, of course.” At that moment Beady slid back a glass door and appeared on the veranda. “Anyway, I’d better go. Bye!” said Theo abruptly.
“Oh, sorry. I didn’t realise you were on the phone.” Beady grimaced. “Would you like a coffee?”
“Yes, please, that would be lovely,” Theo replied, hoping Beady hadn’t heard anything.
A few minutes later Beady put the coffee down. “I am so sorry that your mother died Theo. You haven’t any other close relatives in Russia, have you?”
“No, only a distant cousin.”
“Now you’ll be able to stay at home with Vivi and the children more,” suggested Beady.
“Yes, I hope so, but it does depend on my work. I have a big recording session coming up soon after we return. I haven’t told Vivi yet,” said Theo quietly. “Sergei only arranged it recently and has just told me the dates.”
“You seem to rely on him for everything. Poor Vivi will be upset to hear you’re going away again so soon, especially so late in her pregnancy. She’s worried about you,” said Beady anxiously.
“If the work takes me to Moscow, I have to go.”
“But you never used to be away so much,” Beady persisted.
“I know, I know, but I can’t help it,” Theo whispered.
“Can’t help what?” Beady frowned.
Vivi walked in with Jago carrying a bucket cutting their conversation dead.
“Look at my baby crab, Daddy.” He plonked the bucket onto Theo’s lap.
“He just loves the beach. You must come with us tomorrow,” said Vivi.
A few hours later, Serena arrived back with everyone else, Lang carrying Benjie on his back. They all flopped onto the sofas.
“It was a magical place,” said Jonty.
“I took lots of photos, Mum. The stalagmites were amazing and there were so many beautiful crystals in the Geological Museum,” said Serena.
For the rest of the week, the family spent each day on the beach. Georgie loved her concert outing with Theo and was fascinated to see guitars in the orchestra.
“It’s brilliant going out with you, Daddy. I do wish you didn’t go away so much.”
“I have to go where the concerts are, darling,” he replied, hugging her. “I hope you’ll play in a concert one day.”
“Me too,” she replied.
*
On their last evening, Beady and Jonty set up some fireworks on the veranda. All round the town huge rockets were exploding. The children were very excited, except for the two little boys who hid indoors, scared of the noise.
Beady opened a bottle of Champagne for everyone.
“Well, this is goodbye to the Madeira house. Cheers to my new Chiswick one,” she said with a huge grin.
“It’s been such a relaxing holiday,” said Cheryl. “Thank you so much, Beady.”
“Even Serena has got out of the fast lane for once,” commented Lang.
“Mummy’s been here all day long,” piped up Freddie.
Theo said little, his thoughts already in Moscow.
*
The next morning, they all waved goodbye to Beady and the children were in tears.
“Now, don’t you work too hard, Serena. Remember your family,” said Beady sternly.
“Yes Mum, don’t fuss,” Serena replied annoyed.
“It’s a mother’s job, darling! And you too, Vivi, take care of your dear self.”
“I will, Mum.”
“Oh, and don’t forget I’m coming back out to help with the removal, Ma,” said Jonty, kissing her on the forehead. ‘This was a much-needed break.”
Chapter One
Chiswick
Back in London, Maggie welcomed them all home. “I did miss you,” she said.
“Thanks,” mumbled Theo, who was already wondering how to tell Vivi he would be going to Moscow again. He waited until they were alone at supper and Vivi responded as he predicted.
“Must you really go off again?” Vivi said tearfully.
“This is a most important contract. I’ll have to practice all day and all evening. Murel will conduct and we’ll do the actual recording in about a month,” he said quietly.
“When are you ever going to stay with us longer? And be a proper father to your children? And a husband to me for longer than a few days at a time? You see more of Sergei than you do of us. Have you forgotten that I’m pregnant? I’m due in a few weeks. Just get out, Theo.”
As soon as he left the room, Vivi remained in a heap. Her whole being saddened by the news, especially after such a happy holiday together. Their early years of marriage had been so peaceful. It seemed the more successful he became, the more he went away. She walked slowly upstairs to the empty bedroom. Theo remained in the study, anxious at how upset Vivi was, but also wretched and emotional about his own situation.
Chapter Two
London
Serena left Aylesbury refreshed and full of energy. From Maryle
bone Station she rushed off to Princes Gate where slow progress had been made with refurbishing the stateroom during her absence. She decided to recruit one more assistant to speed up the sewing involved and was keen to move on to the next project down in Wiltshire.
She entered her office to find Gems was talking on two phones at once.
“Oh, Serena, I’m so glad to see you, there are so many queries to answer. Did you have a good time in Madeira? You look lovely and brown.”
“Yes, it was great to spend time with the kids.”
“Well, it’s been non-stop here while you’ve been gone. The Wiltshire people are keen for you to start. Then the Qatar Embassy is asking when you’ll return to do the upper floors,” said Gems.
“I’m in for a hectic few months I think,” said Serena. “Get me Oleg Paranosky in Wiltshire. I’d better meet him again tomorrow and find out more about his project.”
Chapter Three
Oving
Lang felt rather alone. His wife had fled to the office, the children had been collected by Jonty, and Maggie had gone shopping with Benjie. He was walking through the orchard when he spotted a man with a shotgun tucked under his arm strolling towards a nearby van.
“What are you doing on my land?” Lang called out.
The man turned to look at him then started running, tripped and dropped his gun, before finally reaching the van and droving off at speed. Lang went into the house and immediately phoned Jonty who suggested he didn’t touch the gun.
“Let the police deal with it.”
“I thought the countryside was a safe place,” mumbled Lang anxiously.
“Don’t let the children or Maggie know about it,” suggested Jonty. “Did you get the number plate?”
“Sorry, no,” Lang said shakily. “I didn’t even think—”
“I’ll be over in a bit.”
Lang was relieved to see Maggie and Benjie appear with a car full of shopping.
“Hello, Mr Lang. Benjie’s been such a good boy helping me today that I bought him a small football. He wanted a toy gun, but I said the ball was safer,” she said.
Jonty arrived quickly and they went to inspect the shotgun.
“I presume you’ve already called the police?” said Jonty. Lang shook his head, still in shock. “Let’s give them a call and explain to Maggie what happened. Come and have lunch with me and we’ll bring Benjie. Gosh Lang, you’re shaking.”
“It was all just very sudden,” Lang said quietly.
They headed back to the house and Jonty took Maggie aside to explain the situation. She gasped and ran to the window. When she saw the gun on the floor she clutched her chest.
“I’ll call the police right now,” Maggie said, picking up her phone.
Cheryl was surprised to see them all. Jonty quietly took her aside and repeated the story in more detail. She helped ease the atmosphere and kept the conversation light and jovial while they waited for the police to call back.
“Hello, Daddy,” exclaimed Alicia, “I didn’t know we’d see you so soon!”
“The girls have been so helpful,” said Cheryl. “They’ve led some of the children round the paddock and helped with their tack. Alicia is very good with saddle soap!”
“Wasn’t it relaxing in Madeira? Mum really loved having us all. I think she’ll miss her social life out there,” said Jonty. “Oh please, she’ll be too busy helping with Vivi’s baby; loving being a hands on granny at last,” said Cheryl. “Serena’s got a very opulent new client, some Russian guy who has a mansion in St Petersburg, a flat in New York and an estate in Wiltshire,” said Lang. “She’s going to refurbish all his four-poster beds. We won’t see her for dust.”
“That’s a funny thing to say about Mummy,” exclaimed Alicia.
“It’s just a jokey Daddy phrase,” reassured Cheryl. “The gymkhana is Saturday week. Will you bring them, Lang?”
“Let’s see if we can get Mummy in the Parents Race,” added Alicia.
Chapter Four
Chiswick
Theo was packing a small brown case when Georgie rushed in and sat on it.
“I won’t let you go away, Daddy!”
Theo sighed. “Come on Georgie, help me pack. Don’t make it difficult for Daddy.”
Georgie peered at him. “Why are you so serious?”
“Go and start your piano practice and I’ll come and play a duet with you in a few minutes.”
“Okay, but let’s play some fun music for a change.” Georgie stomped out of the room.
Jago ran naked through the bedroom with Bella chasing after him. “Come on, Jago, it’s your bath time,” she called.
I’m going to miss the family chaos, Theo mused, as he walked into the drawing room where Georgie was playing a jazzy tune. They both liked Scott Joplin and she laughed when Theo made mistakes on purpose.
Vivi walked in smiling and plonked Jago on Theo’s lap. “He’s had a bath and wants to join in the fun. I wish I could, too,” she said, sinking into the sofa.
Theo’s mobile buzzed in his jacket pocket, but he paid no attention, knowing it would be Sergei with arrangements for the following day. He was well aware of Vivi’s feelings and knew his departure would cause more upset, but couldn’t prevent his visit to Moscow, and Sergei.
*
Apprehension and sadness hung over the whole family. Theo was eager to go quickly, but his taxi was late so everyone hung about in the hall, with Jago trying to roll his tractor down the banisters. The phone rang.
“It’s for you, Miss Vivi,” said Bella.
“Hello? Oh Mum, how lovely to hear you. We’re just seeing Theo off; can I ring you back?” said Vivi quietly.
Georgie was in floods of tears when Theo eventually left. Bella gathered up both children and suggested the local swimming pool. She hastily took them out, leaving her tearful employer alone.
After a busy morning with three clients, Vivi went down to the kitchen to prepare lunch. The house was unbelievably quiet. The baby kicked and she stroked her tummy.
“I can’t wait to meet you,” she said softly.
Chapter Five
Moscow
Sergei embraced Theo as he came through the arrival gates.
“It’s good to see you, Maestro,” he said. “But you look stressed and tired.”
“I am,” Theo replied.
Chatting non-stop, Sergei drove him to Baba’s house where he’d brought produce and some of his favourite chicken soup, which was laid out ready in the kitchen.
“It feels strange to be without Baba. I miss her,” Theo said sadly.
“Come now, let’s talk about work to take your mind off it,” suggested Sergei, who proceeded to describe the week’s busy schedule. “Murel is determined to make this a memorable recording. Come on Theo… where’s your enthusiasm?” Sergei urged.
“It’ll return once I’m with the orchestra. What time do I start in the morning?”
“8.30.”
“Well in that case I think I’ll go to bed soon,” he said. “Thanks for organising everything as usual.”
“Will you be alright alone here?” Sergei asked concerned.
“Yes, it’s fine. Goodnight, dear Sergei.”
They hugged and Theo waved as the car drove off.
*
Theo awoke wondering where he was, forgetting he was in Baba’s house. It had an empty feeling without her. He dressed himself hurriedly, drank a quick cup of coffee and rushed off to the rehearsal.
A resounding welcome greeted him as he walked in.
“At last you’ve returned.” Murel gave him a brief hug.
Theo felt it was like coming home. He worked tirelessly with the orchestra, perfecting each movement for the next four hours.
Sergei took him out to lunch. “How was it sleeping in your Baba’s house without her?” he asked.
“A bit strange, but I might get used to it. Anyway, it’s great to be back with the orchestra.”
“Yes, I’m sure it is. Will
you have supper at my place tonight?” asked Sergei. “I’ve bought some of your favourite fish.”
“Well, that would be nice. I’ve never been to your apartment before. Shall I come over straight after the rehearsal?” Theo suggested. Just then his mobile rang. “Hello darling, how are you? Yes, I’ve settled in and the orchestra gave me a great welcome. How are things at home?”
“We’re all missing you so much, but Georgie especially wants to talk to you now, I’ll put her on…”
“Hello Daddy,” said Georgie, “I want to ask you something special. I do love you, and I know you love us and the piano. Which do you like best?”
Theo felt a lump in his throat and was stunned. “I love you all best, my darling girl,” he replied, tears stabbing his eyes. “I tell you what, will you compose a tune for me? A laughing tune, and I’ll compose one too.”
“Oh, that’s a great idea, I’ll start mine now.” Georgie put the phone down.
That evening, a cosy supper accompanied by a generous amount of vodka calmed Theo’s fraught emotions in Sergei’s apartment.
“You’re an excellent cook,” Theo said and Sergei blushed. They chatted contentedly until it got late, and Theo yawned. “I think I’ll go to bed. Thanks for this. I’ll see you in the morning.”
“Don’t go yet,” Sergei said, putting an arm round Theo, as he went to stand.
The Maestro pulled away. “I must.” He walked out of the room, towards the front door. “I’m going to walk home. I just have a lot to think about.”
*
The week was musically fulfilling in every way. During rehearsals, Murel was tough yet inspiring. Theo and Sergei spent most evenings together. Sometimes the Maestro’s moods prevented Sergei getting near him.
At the end of the second week, Theo suggested they went to Baba’s dacha since it was going to be sold.
“It’ll be our last weekend here,” he said as they arrived.
Relaxing in each other’s company on Sunday, Sergei suddenly put Theo on the spot. “Do we have a future together or not? We walk round each other like two tentative bears, hardly touching. Where are you, dear Maestro? With me or your wife? Can’t you decide?”
