by Karen Aldous
‘This is a lovely spot,’ Evie said unleashing her bag from her shoulder and dropping it to the ground before throwing out the rolled-up mat. As she settled down, she took in the splendour of the lake and the surrounding mountains. ‘You’re welcome to join us.’
‘Ten minutes if I’m not intruding.’
‘No. Like I said before, I enjoy your company, and we have our friend Riquet in common, I think he has a lot to answer for. It seems we’re as both fascinated by his work as he was.’
‘Yes, I expect you know this lake was built to accommodate the canal.’
‘Yes, and I’m beginning to sound like an anorak but again, it was the women who showed him how to guide the flow of the water to benefit the canal.’
Ben chuckled, his soft mauve lips pulling her like magnets. ‘You really have embraced this project. Your timing was fantastic.’ I think you were sent to me, you know. Like some guardian angel.’
‘I do wonder.’
‘You also remind me of my eldest sister, and I’m totally indebted to her by the way. She went totally out of her way to find out about dealing with dyslexia, she telephoned clinics and experts, didn’t give up until she discovered a technique – Davis it was – but she was the one who spent every day with me teaching me to recognise a group of letters visually. Yes, I found it bloody hard work, long and painstaking, but she was so unwavering and persistent. Like you. And if I hadn’t had all that input, I would never have grown the confidence. Once I could read and write better, the coherence in my stories was amazing. I didn’t even care that the kids ridiculed me. An inner confidence took hold of me.’
‘That’s an impressive and fabulous story in itself. What an amazing sister, she sounds wonderful.’ Evie gazed momentarily at her own sister, realising how much she was learning from her already. ‘But you don’t know what my work contains yet, you haven’t read it.’
‘I’ve had a quick look,’ he smirked. ‘Well a relatively quick look, and your explanations were inspiring. You have a great talent for digging out a story. I’m surprised you don’t travel more with your husband, sorry partner. It would allow you to explore so many places.’
‘Yes we’re partners,’ she said, tightening her lips and sliding her eyes back to the lake. ‘It wouldn’t be fair on a child this young. S… My partner is in and out of cities in a day. It wouldn’t be so bad staying a few months at a time. If we didn’t have Charlotte, yes. I’d have loved to have been a travel journalist selecting what cities I visited and wrote about. That was always a dream. I had a top magazine editor once tell me I was talented and showed much promise.’
As he peered into her eyes, she was sure he was reading her regrets.
‘I’m sure it’s not too late, you’re still very young and you must follow your dream.’
‘You’ve made me see that.’
‘Good, I’m over the moon, but you must get so lonely?’
That was a poignant question. She stared down into her lap, recollecting wasted months and years of self-pity. How had she allowed her self-esteem to sink so low? ‘Very. That’s why you offering me this project is bringing me out of it.’ She clasped her hands together while looking up to the sky and back to his eyes. ‘It’s just up my street. I mean, I’m glad my sanctuary was the library and thank goodness for books, but you gave me back my belief.’
As she turned to his enquiring eyes, he lifted them. ‘I’m overwhelmed. I didn’t realise the powers within me. Honoured. I’ll be benefitting too.’
‘Let’s hope so,’ she smiled.
With locked eyes burrowing into a hypnotic yearning, she watched as he swallowed, and licked her lips as his parted, seducing her. So ripe to kiss. That magnetic force pulling, enticing her forward. Their bodies both careering towards each other, getting closer.
Evie jarred and whisked her head towards the lake. So close.
‘I’d better get going on this recce.’ Ben jumped up. ‘Don’t forget, let me know if you change your mind about tomorrow.’
No, no, come back she wanted to scream. She loved his company and for someone so focused on his work, he had such a caring personality. He appreciated what he had, unlike Seb. Ben had no idea of the good power he possessed. No idea at all. But, thank God he resisted, because she knew that the moment she allowed his lips to hers, fire would ignite and that would be fatal. She couldn’t allow herself to fall for someone so single-minded again, however captivating. And it wasn’t just about what was between her and Ben, but also her and Seb. It only took one foolish slip and both Ben and Seb’s reputations could be in tatters. No, she couldn’t flatter herself it was over her, only that it would be because of her. She could create havoc to both their careers if she was reckless and selfish.
Evie kicked off her flip-flops and joined Charlotte and Cally in the water. Each woman took hold of one of Charlotte’s hands, and the toddler giggled and squealed as cold water spattered her soft skin, and demanded more swaying and splashing. Evie shared in the fun and laughter, grateful that her tension was lifting and embracing the change in the mood. And, as they headed back to the rug and she sat down, drying and wrapping her daughter in a towel, it allowed her to soak in the marvel of the lake and its landscape. Something she hadn’t really absorbed whilst distracted by Ben. It was hard to believe this beautiful scene was largely man-made. These peasants were true geniuses – creating channels, dykes, installing locks the right shape, plus a water spout she was keen to find.
The lake was cradled so empathetically by the mountains and so beautifully engineered. A wondrous work of art. That was what was so magical about the peasant women’s work, it worked with the landscape and the natural environment, whereas Riquet and his engineers had tried to use traditional construction methods which weren’t advanced enough to bring about the solutions.
For now, she could immerse herself just watching Charlotte and Cally’s laughter and sheer enjoyment.
‘Phew, I’m exhausted,’ Cally laughed holding out her hand to Charlotte. ‘Let’s go and play in the sand. Where’s your bucket and spade?’
‘Sit and rest. She’ll wear you out.’
Cally frowned. ‘No way. It’s great, she’s great. I haven’t had such a good time in ages.’
Evie pushed back her hair as she let go of Charlotte, heartily pleased her sister was having fun. She spotted the bucket and spade by the lake, ‘Ah, look, they’re over there, back at the shore. Let’s have a race back.’
Cally eased Charlotte back on her feet. ‘Let’s go get your bucket. Charlotte, run. Ready, steady, go.’ They dashed to the shore and then back to the rug, Charlotte winning all the way.
‘I won,’ Charlotte cheered, clapping her hands in the air.
‘Hurray,’ Cally cheered. ‘Yes, you beat us. Well done.’
Charlotte tottered to her bucket and spade. ‘Cally, dig.’
‘Right, sun cream, then you can dig with Auntie Cally. If that’s ok with Auntie Cally. I think you may have worn her out.’
‘I really enjoyed that, even though I’m beat,’ Cally said. ‘I don’t know how you cope with her all day long. You are fun and a martyr Evie Grant. Oh, and secretive. Who was the hottie?’
They turned back to their belongings. Evie laughed. ‘That was Ben. I should have introduced you to him but he had to go. He may be back, sorry.’
Cally collapsed on the rug and hugged her niece. ‘Not at all. I was having so much fun. He’s the film guy, right?’
Evie blushed. ‘Correct.’
‘Looked pretty intimate from where I was standing.’
‘Absolutely not. Out of the question,’ Evie protested. Then added, ‘He is lovely though. So different to Seb in many ways – well personality-wise – but he’s highly driven and focused on his work like Seb.’
‘Oh dear. You don’t need two Seb Wilde’s in your life. Well don’t let him too far out of your sight until you get to know him better. If he’s kind and lifts your spirits, he could be a keeper.’
Evie was s
taring dreamily, then thrust her chin in the air. ‘You’re not letting up, are you,’ she grinned. ‘I think I need to focus on becoming independent, not nose-diving back into relying on others. Let’s get our sun cream on,’ she told Charlotte.
‘Ceam.’ Charlotte put out her hand.
Once creamed up, Evie watched as Charlotte and Cally played in the sand and collected water from the lake. Cally really did seem to be enjoying being an auntie. Evie turned on her side and lay down, thinking about her discussion with Ben earlier. She had certainly found more to life in the last few weeks than she had in the last three years. And she wouldn’t now let life slip through her fingers. All she had to do now was figure out a way forward. With Seb so against what she wanted, that bit was tricky.
She tipped her rucksack and moaned as papers spilled out. She pulled out the book she had dog-eared, and gathered up the printouts, shaping them back to a neat pile. She flicked through them, her eyes scanning for key words. She began reading through a piece of text, discovering Riquet had moved to the nearby city of Revel in 1648 and, as she read on, she gasped.
‘Oh, wow, oh my God.’
Chapter 20
With her new-found discovery, Evie was so excited. They’d waited for Ben to return at the beach and even considered putting a note on his car, but in the end, she just had to make that call to him when they returned from their trip. Ben had sounded genuinely thrilled to hear she had agreed to go to his birthday celebrations after all. Not that she had told him why. She would keep that surprise for later, but he offered to collect her the following evening to take her to Roquebrun. Cally was delighted to stay with Charlotte for the evening and even insisted she take Evie into Sete to buy her a new dress for the occasion. When Cally returned from working in Montpelier at three-thirty, Evie was wide awake in her room in a frenzy of excitement, jotting down more for Ben’s script, and some details about her character Maria Mendoza, even creating dialogue which she thought would fit with other characters, chiefly, Riquet.
From a tragic widow whose husband was killed by Riquet’s tax collectors, she was determined to make Maria loveable and endearing – despite Riquet taking advantage, trying to over-power her and exploiting her much-needed talents. Maria would be a powerful force in herself; a strong and passionate peasant leader possessing huge knowledge and talent in hydraulics. In fact, she would be key in solving many engineering issues for Riquet. From Evie’s fresh discovery, she decided Maria, having been admired by her master for a while, would finally succumb to Riquet’s charms, engaging in an illicit affair and bearing four further children for him. He would try to keep her secret to begin with (Evie could barely contain a tear at the irony) but Maria would be shrewd, she would know how to use her talents to her advantage and wouldn’t be hidden away. Riquet would be forced to comply to her wishes.
‘Then…’ Evie began muttering aloud to herself, becoming swept up in her imagination ‘…their affair and children are publicly revealed, his wife and family suffer the disgrace. But when the children become of an age to be useful they too become accomplished, employed and even united within his enterprise. So it’s not all tragedy because when Riquet reveals his younger family to his wife and their children, although hurt, his wife finally accepts his mistress is an asset and vital to all their futures. On his deathbed, his wife espouses Riquet’s vision and realises that it needs Maria to be completed and would only live on through her knowledge and dedication. She elevates her opinion of Maria, influencing others. They all learn to admire and respect Maria. The peasant women receive their credit. All the Riquet children benefit. His vision lives on through both families…’ The words glided from her fingers to the keyboard; from tragedy, a scandal, transformed to beauty. Maria’s lines and emotions breathed life into Riquet’s private and public behaviour. Tears spilled down Evie’s cheeks. This woman had seeped into her veins and she loved her for it. Two hours later, tired and exhausted, she finally fell asleep.
Ben arrived promptly, as promised, at six-thirty. Taking a final look in the mirror, she hardly recognised herself in the fitted silky cocktail dress. With several shades of blue ripples running down it, the colours reflected the hues of her eyes and, with Cally’s help, her hair spoke sophistication in a pretty chignon style. The look was finished off with a costume-diamond necklace and earrings. Evie grabbed her navy clutch bag and peered out of the window. Ben was turning the car. Kissing Charlotte and Cally goodnight, she walked to the front door, picking up the gift bag and teetering across the front courtyard in new high heels. As she went out to the track and closed the gate, a swift glance around revealed nothing of her stalker.
As soon as Ben stepped out from the car, Evie’s chest hammered. She struggled for breath. He looked so handsome, wearing light cream trousers with a light-oak cashmere-silk top that hung loosely from his well-toned torso. His dark curls were tamed just enough, framing a tanned, clean-shaven face and, as she got closer, he slipped off his sunglasses, exposing dark hungry eyes. A fleeting quiver raged through her, sending her almost off-balance and unsteady on her heels.
Ben reached out, catching her hand. ‘You look stunning,’ he said, wrapping his other arm along her shoulder and sweeping one cheek with a kiss, then the other. Evie’s insides squealed with delight.
‘Thank you,’ she managed, trying desperately to slow her breath and co-ordinate her feet. He smelt divine. ‘You look amazing too, light colours really suit you,’ she told him… but ‘HOT’ was a word she wished to scream out loud. Calm yourself down, this is professional.
Ben led her round to the passenger side. ‘I’m so glad you changed your mind.’
‘Oh, happy birthday, by the way. Here. It’s not much but I hope you like it.’
Ben opened the door and took the small gift bag from her. ‘I did ask you not to bring me a present but that’s very kind of you and I shall accept it gracefully and treasure it.’
‘Lucky it’s not a bottle of wine or chocolates then.’
‘If it’s a bulb of garlic, I will treasure it coming from you.’
‘Ohh, you charmer you.’
Ben chuckled. ‘I’m trying, believe me.’ He climbed into the driver seat and lifted the wrapped item in the air. ‘I’m intrigued.’ He put the bag down and unrolled the tissue paper.
Evie watched those lips curl as he held up the miniature statue.
‘Sweet. Riquet.’
‘Yes, well, mini-Riquet.’
‘I love it, very fitting coming from you. He will have pride of place on my fireplace. Thank you.’ He leaned across and sealed her lips with a quick light kiss.
Evie gripped her chest then fanned her hand, the blood rushing up her face.
Ben started the car. ‘Sorry your partner couldn’t make it, but I’m secretly glad I won’t have to compete for your attention.’
‘No A-list actresses coming to lure you then?’
‘No, I might struggle with the actors though. I sense the competition for your attention will hot up.’
‘Oh, I’m not here to woo anyone. I’ve got some exciting news though. I’ll explain when we’re on our way.’
Ben grimaced, then smiled. ‘I’m intrigued.’
That smile sent frantic vibrations through her veins. He closed the door and was soon driving her off to Roquebrun.
‘So, don’t keep me in suspense. What’s this exciting news?’ he said as he steered down the track.
‘Yes, well, I could have emailed you but I couldn’t wait until Monday.’ She glinted as his eyebrows threaded mysteriously. ‘You know you were itching to discover if Riquet had had any affairs?’
‘Whoa, you found one?’
Watching his Adam’s apple bob as he swallowed, Evie bubbled with amusement. ‘I’m not sure if it’s one or several, but it seems Riquet had four more children other than those with his wife, Catherine de Milhau. She had four. One son sadly died. Anyway, the other four were born after he, along with his wife, moved to the town of Revel… and there’s nothi
ng to suggest these offspring are with Catherine. There is nothing confirming otherwise either, but the claim is that they are thought to be illegitimate. So there are still many questions unanswered but the text confirms there are unpublished love letters. I don’t know if they are from or to Riquet, or both.’
Ben rubbed his neck as he swiped a sideways glance. ‘Oh, wow. But how do you know they don’t refer to his original children?’
‘Because the children’s names are different to his first four. There’s Marie in 1648, twins William and Catherine four years later in 1652, and just a year later, Anne in 1653.
‘Bloody hell. You’ve struck gold.’
Evie went to slide her fingers in her hair but then quickly remembered it was styled. ‘I wish there was some way of establishing the mothers, or mother. It’s probably not published because the authorities wouldn’t want to tarnish his reputation or discredit him in any way.’
‘Oh, I should think so. He is rather a national monument. That’s what attracted me to the story in the first place. This is incredibly exciting. I could really create something epic with this. Thank you. You definitely deserve a bonus in your payment for this. You must invoice me your hours. This is a great scandal.’
No. No. Not a scandal. Evie almost screamed. How that word injected fear into her veins, evoking a reminder of her entrapment. Why did everything need to be sensationalised? She took in a sharp breath.
‘It adds intrigue, certainly. I’m thinking the mistress’s story could create a compelling drama, a tapestry of colours weaving through the characters.’ But this wasn’t her story. She was just carrying out the research. Ben was paying for the information. She had to remember that. ‘And yes, I will invoice you. Thank you. I’ll send them tomorrow with the document.’
Suddenly a hand slapped on her knee, making her jump. ‘Oh, Evie, you’re a star, do you know that. I can’t thank you enough. That is the best birthday present ever.’
