‘Are you on lunch duty today?’ she asked.
‘Afraid so. I’ll have to go soon. Time to change into the black uniform and be polite to the masses. Sunday lunch is always something of a tradition in Cornwall. When can we meet again, Gina ... or could it be Georgie?’
‘You seem to be the one with commitments,’ she replied with some hesitancy. She knew that she still wanted him like crazy, even after everything her friend had been saying.
‘Tuesday evening? We could go to the cinema if you like?’
‘Sounds good to me. Thanks.’
‘I’ll text to confirm time etc. But, I’d better push off now. Good to meet you Jenny. Safe journey back.’ He leaned over to kiss her on the forehead and she smiled.
‘Bye Gina. Nice to see your friend and even better to see you.’ He pulled her close and kissed her very gently, tenderly. ‘Till Tuesday and I can’t wait. I curse work for getting in the way of us.’
‘Know what you mean. I’ll see you then. Bye, love.’
She watched him walk away and went back to her friend.
‘I can certainly see why you’re tempted. He’s gorgeous. “Well fit”, as they say.’
‘I know. At least you can see my dilemma now. He seems so affectionate and he’s everything I could dream of. He’s spoiled anything I might ever have felt for Guy.’
‘I can see that. But there is still the vexed question of why he said he was working on Friday when he was clearly coming back from somewhere, on a bus.’
‘I know you’re right. But I have to keep remembering that I’m living a lie too. What will he do or say when he discovers who I really am?’
‘It will be interesting to see. He seems keen enough and if he really doesn’t know who you are, it’s safe enough to assume he likes you for what you are. Has he seen your rather flashy little car yet? That might take some explaining. A waitress in a café doesn’t usually drive around in something that costs thirty grand.’
‘I thought I’d say I won it in a competition.’
‘You have become quite devious.’
‘I know. Fun isn’t it? And he doesn’t suspect a thing. I hope he doesn’t.
‘You’re playing a dangerous game Georgie. Be careful.’
Chapter Six
Georgie received several texts during the next two days. Their date for Tuesday evening was on and she offered to drive them both to the nearest town for their cinema outing.
‘I needed to have the chance to kiss you before we go out,’ he offered in explanation when he arrived at her apartment. ‘It would have been embarrassing in front of the hotel. I’ve been missing you. I hated you being with someone else at the weekend.’
‘Don’t be silly. It was my school friend Jenny, not some bloke.’
‘I know. I’m just very frustrated that we can spend so little time together. There’s something very special between us. You feel it too, don’t you?’
‘I think so. But we still don’t know much about each other. Who we are. All the baggage.’ She had thought about it so many times since Jenny’s departure. Her friend had voiced everything she had been worrying about. But his physical presence made all her doubts recede.
‘I know you’re right. I don’t even know what music you like. What films or television. Mind you, I’ve lost touch with most television since I’ve been here.’
‘Let’s go and see if our taste in films coincides for a start.’
‘Okay. So, where’s this car of yours?’
‘In a garage down below. Prepare yourself for a surprise.’
‘What do you mean?’
‘I don’t know what you’re expecting.’
‘Nor do I. Something small and neat perhaps?’
‘It’s not large. It’s quite neat, I suppose.’
‘Can’t wait. You’ve got me quite intrigued.’
She unlocked the garage and revealed her sports car. It was ice blue, sleek and obviously expensive. She didn’t usually think twice about it but now, it seemed an exposure of her real self and her real life.
‘Wow. That didn’t come cheap,’ Jay exclaimed. ‘Is there something you should be telling me?’
‘I won it in a sort of competition,’ she lied. ‘It’s rather gorgeous, isn’t it?’
‘Very nice,’ he agreed with a nod. ‘But as you said, quite a surprise. I should think it’s expensive to run and the insurance alone would eat most of my earnings.’
‘Insurance was included,’ she continued to fib. ‘I haven’t been using it much so the petrol’s been okay so far. Come on. Let’s go.’
Jay’s long legs stretched under the dashboard. She was a confident driver and they soon left the village behind them.
‘It goes like a dream, doesn’t it? Perhaps a car like this is the next thing to add to my dream list. I can’t believe you could win something like this. Lucky girl. Wow. What more could I want? A beautiful woman beside me and a car like this. I’ve died and gone to heaven.’
‘It’s just a car Jay. I’d let you have a go but the insurance only covers me, I’m afraid.’
‘I wouldn’t dare to drive it anyway. I’m more used to a beaten up old banger. So, which film do you fancy?’
Jay had casually put his arm across the back of her seat and she had rested her head comfortably on his shoulder. It felt easy and familiar, though it was the first time they had spent such an evening. At least he had paid for them both, she reflected, thinking about Jenny’s comment that he was not very generous. As they drove back to Poltoon, she wondered how to deal with what might happen next.
‘Do you want some coffee?’ she asked.
‘I’m not sure it’s a good idea. Might be too tempting. You made it clear you’re not ready for commitment.’
‘I’m sorry.’
‘No worries but I think it best to decline the coffee. You’re just too lovely for me to leave alone. We’ll see each other again very soon. Promise. I’ll call you.’
‘Thank you for a lovely evening. It’s been great.’ He reached over to kiss her and touched her cheek as he was getting out of the car. ‘Night, my dear little Georgie. You don’t mind do you? Me using that name? It suits you so much better than Gina.’
‘No, I don’t mind. And I look forward to seeing you soon.’
He seemed to be understanding and mindful of her wishes. All plus points. It made her feel more comfortable, as she reflected on Jenny’s advice. She could easily convince herself that Jenny did not have all the right answers. There were things going on his life, things he hadn’t spoken of but she still wanted him, very much.
Things came to a head a few days later. They drove out to a pub along the coast and ate hot pasties and drank beer. When they arrived back at Georgie’s apartment, Jay went inside with her.
‘You are driving me wild, Georgie Hind.’ He drew her close and kissed her until they both felt dizzy with joy, desire, all the feelings she had ever read about in her favourite romantic fiction. Now she really knew what it felt like to be properly in love.
‘I love you Jay,’ she whispered.
‘Oh my darling. I’ve longed for you to say that. I fell in love with you just seconds after I saw you. In that ridiculous little cap you wear at work, I wanted to snatch it off and let your gorgeous hair fall down, like it is now.’ He was stroking her hair, touching her neck and sending shivers of delight coursing through her body. Very gently, he cupped her face in his hands and kissed every inch of her face.
‘I want you Jay’ she whispered hoarsely.
‘If you’re sure,’ he whispered.
*
Georgie’s alarm rang at seven o’clock the next morning. The pair jolted awake and Jay reached for his watch.
‘Oh heavens, I’m late. I have breakfast duties starting in less than five minutes.’ He flung back the duvet and rushed into her shower. He tugged on his clothes, kisses her perfunctorily on the nose and rushed out of the apartment. She smiled and looked up the hill, seeing him running towards the h
otel at top speed. She hugged the duvet close to her and stretched again. She felt languid and still sleepy.
‘You look happy,’ Audrey told her when she arrived at work. ‘Nice evening?’
‘Great, thanks. Are you okay? You look a bit pale.’
‘To tell you the truth, I’m not feeling the best today. I’m wondering if I’ve got a cold or something.’
‘I can do things here. You take it easy. I’m sure I know the routine well enough and I could probably manage easily. Why don’t you go and rest and I’ll do the scones and get lunch things ready while we’re quiet.’
‘That’s good of you, dear. I think I will go back home if that’s all right and maybe take something. Give me a buzz when you need me.’ She went through the back door of the kitchen area to her house, across the yard. There was an intercom between the two so it was easy to contact each other without leaving the place unattended.
Happily, Georgie made scones, wiped over the tables and prepared dishes of jam and cream ready to serve. She even had the coffee machine primed and ready to switch on when customers arrived. She glanced around for the next thing to do and realised the salad and quiches needed preparing for lunch. Humming, she quickly organised everything, thanking her father for giving her such a thorough grounding in every aspect of the business. She rather enjoyed being in charge. It all made her push away the enormity of what had happened. Jenny would be surprised at the way things had turned out. She would still keep it to herself and enjoy the thoughts for a while.
Lunchtime proved rather hectic, serving, making up sandwiches and rolls to order and keeping on top of the washing up and clearing. She was determined to manage and let Audrey to recover. Hopefully, a day off would make her feel better. Once the tea rush was over, Georgie had time to clear up and catch up with washing up. For the first time, she had a moment to remember what had happened the previous night. Her heart gave a twist at the thought and she finished her work with a silly grin on her face. She now felt she was truly an adult and had finally escaped from her parents’ control. She wanted to shout it from the rooftops, tell everyone she was in love. Maybe she had been foolish but she felt euphoric and nothing was going to spoil her joy.
She locked the front door and went through to knock on Audrey’s door. After some while, the woman came to the door.
‘I suspect it’s a bout of summer flu. I feel terrible. Everything aches and I think we’ll have to close tomorrow. I’m sorry but I can’t think straight.’
‘I can manage. I did okay today. It was a bit of a rush at lunchtime but if I cut down on what we serve, I’m happy to manage it all. I’ll cash up, shall I? Bring the takings over? I didn’t like to do it without asking.’
‘If you’re sure. I’d be most grateful. Do you know how to check off the till roll and everything? If not, bring it all over and Charlie will do it when he comes home.’
‘Of course. I’ll do it all.’
‘There’s some cash bags on the thing under the counter.’
‘Don’t worry. Get back inside and I’ll see you soon. Would you like me to make you a hot drink when I’m finished?’
‘I’m okay thanks love. I do appreciate it.’ She swayed on her feet, looking as if she was about to collapse.
Georgie quickly sorted out the cash. It was a simple method and much less technical that any of their hotel systems. She packed coins and notes into cash bags and took it over with the paper reconciliation. It was all clear and straightforward. She even took the pot where tips were left, usually shared between them at the end of the week. Once she had checked the fridge and freezer for the supplies for the next day, she locked up and went back to her apartment, taking the key with her.
Jay had sent a couple of texts which she hadn’t even read, let alone replied to.
Can I come to your place later this evening? Miss you! XX
How much later?
When I finish? Ten-ish?
I’ll be waiting xx
She grinned to herself and hugged her arms round her body. Life was brilliant. She cooked herself some eggs and ate some fruit that looked as if it had seen better days. Her phone rang. It was her mother.
‘Hallo Mummy. How are you?’
‘I’m fine. But how are you? I’m so worried about you.’
‘Don’t be. Everything is going really well and I’m loving what I’m doing.’
‘I’m afraid I have some bad news. Daddy says he’s refused to pay your credit card. Obviously, you’ve been using it for rent and petrol. Have you got some money? I mean, can you manage on what you’re earning? I don’t want you going hungry or being short of money. You’re not used to managing, are you?’
‘Well, no, I suppose not. Daddy’s always organised my finances. But I still have some money in the bank. I’ll find somewhere cheaper to live.’
‘I can let you have a cheque if you need it Darling. No need to say anything to your father. Can’t you tell me where you are and what you’re doing?’
‘Please don’t ask Mummy. You know what will happen. Daddy will come roaring down and demand I go back and I’m actually having a really good time.’ If only she knew, she thought with a slight grimace.
‘Well if you’re sure. But I wanted to warn you. He won’t pay the last credit card bill that came in. Says if you want to be independent then you have to pay it yourself. It was over a thousand pounds. Have you got that?’
‘I think so,’ she said with a gulp, knowing that paying it would clean her out, especially after the weekend with Jenny when she’d had her shopping spree. She didn’t even know how to pay a credit card bill. ‘So what do I have to do?’
‘I’m not sure. I suppose you’d have to send a cheque. It’s usually paid automatically from Daddy’s account. I’ll let you know. I expect you have to do something clever with that internet thing, do you think?’
‘Thanks Mummy. Text me the details, I’ll sort it out. I hope you aren’t getting too much hassle from him.’
‘I’m coping. I do miss you though. When might we see you?’
‘I’m not sure. Please don’t worry about me. Thanks for phoning.’
It was certainly a blow. She had planned to stay another couple of weeks in this apartment but now, all her savings would go on paying for the previous month. She had a few days left to look for somewhere else. She went to look at the cards in the post office window. Apart from a caravan, which still seemed rather expensive, there was nothing suitable. Perhaps she would have to look inland but she would then have to travel in to work each day and pay for car parking on top. It would happen now, just when things were going so well. She wouldn’t say anything to Jay. Not yet.
He arrived just after ten o’clock.
‘I’m shattered,’ he announced, ‘but I couldn’t bear not to see you. I thought I might stay over again, if that’s all right?’
‘Of course. Do you want a drink? I’ve got some wine or a soft drink. Or coffee.’
‘Wine sounds wonderful.’
‘Might as well make the most of it. I’m going to have to move out of here in a day or two. Can’t afford it any longer.’ Damn, she told herself. I wasn’t going to say anything.
‘That’s a shame. I was thinking of asking if I could move in with you for a while.’
‘If only ...’ she breathed, slightly terrified at the thought but equally, thinking it would be paradise.
‘I could help out a bit with rent but not very much really. You know my situation.’
‘I’d love you to but I haven’t found anywhere else yet. I might have to move away from the village but even that means more expense with travelling and parking.’
‘Oh dear and just when I thought we were getting ourselves sorted.’
‘We can make the most of the next few days. Or evenings. Audrey is ill so I’m running things single handed for a while.’
‘Heavens. Can you do it?’
‘Course I can. Bit hectic at times but it’s a matter of organisation really.’
/>
‘Don’t let her take advantage of you.’
‘Of course she wouldn’t. But she is quite unwell so I may be on my own for a while. How was your day?’
‘Not bad. I was late this morning but it wasn’t a problem. One of the girls covered for me. I had a couple of hours off during the day and then it was all go again this evening. Thanks for letting me come round so late. I’ve brought a few toiletries with me so I can be more organised in the morning.’
Georgie awoke first and watched as Jay gradually roused. There was something very intimate about watching someone sleeping. His face looked so peaceful and the clean lines and strong jaw line were things she would never tire of seeing. His black hair was rumpled and fell as soft curls over his forehead. He opened his eyes and grinned.
‘I could enjoy waking up like this every day,’ he murmured. ‘What’s the time?’
‘Six-thirty.’
‘Good. Not such a rush then. Come here.’ He drew her close and kissed her soft lips. ‘That’s as much as I dare do now. But thank you for being you and letting me share a little part of you.’
‘Thank you for caring. Now, be off with you and get yourself ready for work.’
She made coffee and toast and handed it to him when he came out of the shower.
‘Thank you but you didn’t have to do that. I get a proper breakfast when the guests have all been fed.’
‘I wanted to do it. Can’t have you going out without even a cup of coffee.’ It felt comfortable and homely.
‘I was thinking,’ he began. ‘I could ask at the hotel if they’d allow you to stay in the caravan with me. It’s meant for two people to share so there’s room. I’m just not sure they will allow someone to move in who’s not working at the hotel.’
‘That would be amazing. Perhaps I could work a shift on reception or something during the evening when you’re working.’
A Small Town Affair Page 6
