A Small Town Affair

by Chrissie Loveday

  ‘You call that a job?’ he sniffed. ‘Very well. This is your last chance. You can phone me if you want to be collected. Otherwise, you’re on your own.’ Mr Hetherington stood up, dropping crumbs from his cake all over the carpet. He flung down his napkin, knocking over one of the cups. ‘Come along Fay.’

  He turned and stormed out of the hotel. Her mother hesitated and gave her daughter a hug,

  ‘I’m sorry but I’ll have to go with him. He’ll calm down eventually. Leave him to me. I’ll be in touch soon. Do take care Darling. Goodbye Jay. Look after her won’t you?’

  ‘Of course I will. Nice to meet you at last.’

  ‘Keep in touch Darling. Don’t leave us worrying, please.’

  ‘All right Mummy. I’ll let you know our plans when we’ve made them.’ She walked to the door with her mother and Jay stayed behind, clearing up the mess that had been left.

  ‘I can quite see why you like him, dear. He’s rather gorgeous isn’t he? And certainly more exciting than dear old Guy. But you will be careful, won’t you? Be certain before you commit yourself to anything. And I’ll try to organise something regarding a car. You can’t be left without transport. I’ll get Daddy’s secretary to sort things out with the insurance.’

  ‘Thank you Mummy. And ... well I’m sorry to give you so much worry. But you see how Daddy is. Trying to organise my life. At least I know for sure that Jay loves me for myself and not who I am.’ There was a loud honking of a car horn.

  ‘Sorry, I must go. See you soon.’

  She got into the car and turned to wave. Her father drove away throwing up a spray of gravel behind him. She went back inside to Jay. He looked up, an expression on his face that she couldn’t fathom.

  ‘We need to talk,’ he said simply. ‘I’ll have to work this evening but I’ll try to get away early.’

  ‘Okay. I’m sorry you had to face that without warning.’

  ‘Not to worry. It had to happen sometime. I’ll see you later.’ He carried the tray into the kitchen, leaving her alone.

  Slowly, she went across to the caravan, her mind racing in all directions. She had to admit to missing her family, despite her father’s rather bullying ways. She was used to dealing with him but at times, it was too much to cope with. Her mother was so gentle by comparison but usually managed to get her own way when she needed to. Georgie smiled as she thought of her mother’s comments about Jay. But she knew she had to be cautious about what she said to him. He had produced an expensive meal just on the very day he had discovered her true identity. Coincidence? Maybe but she doubted it. It did give her a bit of a jolt. He was not beyond a bit of deviousness but she could hardly blame him under the circumstances. Nevertheless, it made her suspicious of what might happen next. She also needed get this pregnancy testing kit but without a car, she could hardly go and buy one in the nearest town. Should she risk getting one at the chemist in the village? People might talk if she did. But then, she needed to know before their talk got much further. She glanced at her watch. They’d be closing in ten minutes but if she hurried, she might just get there in time. She grabbed her purse and almost ran down the hill.

  ‘Hi Gina,’ the chemist’s assistant greeted her. ‘Just in time. Can I help?’ Georgie couldn’t do it.

  ‘Just need some paracetamol,’ she lied.

  She would have to get into town somehow and buy her kit somewhere more anonymous. She couldn’t say anything about being pregnant to Jay until she knew for sure. Whatever the future held, they had to find a way to earn money to live on. How would she spend the next few hours until Jay finished work?

  What a mess.

  Chapter Ten

  Georgie watched the tiny television for an hour but had no idea what she had watched. She made some toast. If she really was pregnant, she needed to eat something more nutritious. She nibbled at a piece of cheese and ate a tomato. But everything was too much hassle and she still faced a difficult talk with Jay. She heard him crunching across the gravel at nine-thirty and opened the door for him. She held out her hands to him, expecting him to take them and pull her close. He ignored the gesture and almost pushed past her.

  ‘Jay?’ she whispered. He sat on the sofa and patted the seat for her to sit beside him. She frowned. She had expected him to try and comfort her after the trauma of meeting her parents. For him to be sympathetic and not this distant, remote shell of his usual self.

  ‘We have to be realistic Georgie. We have totally different backgrounds. If I’d realised who you were, we would never have become close the way we have. I can never expect to give you the sort of life you’re used to. You need to call your parents and go back to your life with them.’

  ‘What are you saying Jay? You don’t love me after all?’

  ‘It doesn’t matter what I think or feel. You have a good life. You have everything could want provided for you. I’m offering a bedsit somewhere and a very uncertain future.’

  ‘But Jay, you must realise that I’d choose you over any luxuries and wealth. Why do you think I left it all behind in the first place? You’ve seen what my father’s like. He wants his own way all the time and doesn’t listen to anyone else’s ideas or care what makes them happy. He thinks that I live a happy life if I have a decent car and a few odd pieces of jewellery. I used to spend my time shopping and meeting friends for lunches or something. The times I worked in the hotels were all good but then, he considered it little more than occupational therapy for me.’

  ‘But you could do it. I saw the way you worked the reception here. You managed it far better than most of the permanent staff. In fact, I know the manager was going to offer you a permanent job here. He asked me what your plans were and I said we were probably moving on. Sorry, I should have asked you, I suppose. You’ll accuse me of trying to organise your life.’

  ‘Maybe. But I wouldn’t have taken it anyway, not unless you were staying.’

  ‘I can see exactly why you kept your identity a secret. It must have been difficult for you to form relationships with men.’

  ‘Of course it was. Anyone who came near, Daddy sent them packing, assuming they were only after my money. Says something about the sort of man he is, doesn’t it?’

  ‘He wants the best for you. And I’m not it.’

  ‘But you are the best for me, Jay. I love you. I thought you loved me.’

  ‘I do but I simply can’t take everything away from you. You’d resent it one day. If we were living in a bedsit with no money and pathetic jobs, you’d grow to hate me. We find it hard enough to live in this caravan. I bet you have a wardrobe at home larger than this entire caravan.’

  ‘So what if I do? I’ve lived for several months like this and not minded at all.’

  ‘But this has been a sort of holiday for you. A breakout from the normal life you live. You could go back any time.’

  ‘So, what are you saying? You don’t care anymore and you want me to leave?’

  ‘I think it would be for the best. You have till early tomorrow to call your parents.’ She tried to read his expression but his face was like some sort of mask. He was hiding his emotions from her and she didn’t know whether to believe him.

  ‘’I love you Jay. Do you want to throw it all away in some strange belief that it’s a transient whim?’

  ‘Oh Georgie, don’t make it so difficult for me. I’m trying to do what’s best for both of us.’

  ‘What you think may be best. You’re as bad as my father.’ A flicker of pain ran over his face. ‘Do you want me to move out right away or can we have one more night together?’

  ‘Of course I don’t want you to move out. Come here.’ He drew her close and she felt him trembling. She stroked his forehead and ran her fingers into his dark hair. He kissed her and she felt her emotions surge in the wonderful way she had become used to over the past weeks.

  ‘Come on. Let’s go to bed,’ he whispered.

  It was going to be all right. He still loved her. As she lay in his arms, she felt de
ep contentment wash over her. He had slipped into a deep sleep and she lay still, not wanting to move and break the spell he had woven around her. She felt his even breathing and gently touched his chest. Fine black hairs felt silky smooth beneath her fingers. She could no longer imagine a night without him sleeping beside her and she gave an involuntary shudder at the thought of leaving him. Eventually, she fell into a light sleep and dreamt of sunny days and sea. She awoke to hear rain drumming down on the roof. She gave a jolt which woke Jay.

  ‘What’s the matter?’ he murmured.

  ‘Nothing. I just woke suddenly as the rain was falling. Sorry. Go back to sleep.’

  ‘What’s the time?’

  ‘Dunno. It’s still dark so it must be early.’ Jay disengaged himself from her arms and turned to look at his watch.

  ‘Six o’clock. Shouldn’t you start packing?’

  ‘But why? I’m not going anywhere. I thought ... Well, after last night ... I thought you didn’t want me to go.’

  ‘I thought we’d discussed it all. I want what is best for you.’

  ‘You don’t. It’s what you think you is best. But you are wrong. I’m not going anywhere. If you don’t want to be with me anymore, then I’ll find somewhere else to live. Audrey offered me a room while I look.’

  ‘You are as stubborn as your father, you realise.’

  ‘Possibly.’

  ‘Of course I don’t want to lose you. I love you. I do want to be with you but I’m ... well, I have very little money and no prospects.’

  ‘We’ll do something together to make our own fortunes, you wait and see. If my father can start with nothing, why shouldn’t we?’

  ‘But you heard what he said. If you didn’t call him now, that’s it. You’ll lose everything forever.’

  ‘Maybe. My mother said she would organise the car insurance claim. We should get a decent sum in compensation. I can buy a cheaper car and we shall have a start towards our living expenses.’

  ‘I won’t live off you. It’s no way to make our future.’

  ‘Forget your stupid pride. I want us to be together and if that is a way to make it happen, then so be it. We might even have the deposit for a flat to rent. And I can get a job anyway. As you say, I have lots of talents to support us while you get your qualifications.’ He looked unhappy again and was about to say something but changed his mind.

  ‘I’ll have to get up. I need a shower and it will be time to serve the wretched breakfasts again soon. Never ending isn’t it?’ He left her and she snuggled into his warm place. She heard the water running and hugged her arms round herself. Everything was going to be all right. Except for one thing. If she was going to have a baby, she wouldn’t be able to work and well, babies cost a lot of money, didn’t they? Still, once her parents became grandparents, they would surely forgive everything and help them out with jobs and money. Jay might not like the idea but he’d have no choice in the matter. She sat up and immediately felt the waves of nausea beginning. Jay came back to the bedroom, a towel hung round his middle.

  ‘Mmm, you look tempting. If I didn’t have to serve breakfast to dozens of guests, I’d creep back in there with you.’ He paused. ‘Are you all right? You look pale.’

  ‘Tension, I expect. It’s been a difficult few hours. You’d better get dressed and get to work or someone will come knocking at the door for you. I’d better get moving too. Audrey has no idea of what’s going on. I left work early yesterday.’ As soon as she was sure Jay had gone, she rushed to the toilet and was sick. If nothing else was to convince her, that was a clear sign of morning sickness that came with pregnancy. She hadn’t realised it could start so early and wondered how long it lasted. She washed herself and held a cool flannel on her forehead. This was awful. Even so, she still needed to do a proper test to be certain before she told Jay.

  Audrey gave her a perfect opportunity when she arrived at work.

  ‘I was wondering f you could do me a big favour,’ she asked.

  ‘Surely, if I can.’

  ‘My husband’s been called away. His mother’s ill.’

  ‘Oh dear. I’m sorry.’

  ‘Nothing serious but she does flap a bit. It means he hasn’t done the cash and carry run. I was wondering if you’d mind going for me? We have the van. It’s a bit ancient but it goes all right.’

  ‘Of course I will. I’d be pleased to help. Or shall I mind this place if you want to go yourself.’

  ‘Oh no dear. I don’t actually like driving. I have a licence but I don’t drive if I can help it. If you can go right away, you’ll be back for the main coffee time. It’s not far and I’ve made out a list.’

  Georgie drove away from the village. The van was indeed elderly and had very little power. It was probably something she would have to get used to, driving a low powered car. She passed a chemist in the town and stopped outside. She ran in and collected a pregnancy testing kit, frowning slightly at the cost but at least she now had it and could confirm things one way or the other. She stuffed it into her bag and got back into the van. It was an interesting trip to the wholesale store. On her way back, she stopped in a side road to read the test instructions. It was going to have to wait until she finished work and then she hoped Jay would be working long enough for her to do it privately.

  It seemed a long day and she grew more and more tense as the time approached. Jenny rang her during the afternoon, hoping for an update.

  ‘I gather you’ve had an official visitation,’ she said.

  ‘Oh, yes. I guess Mummy has called you?’

  ‘Oh yes. I was told off for not letting them know you were all right. Anyway, what’s the news?’

  ‘I’ve only just managed to buy a test kit. I’ll do it after work. Did Mummy say anything about Jay?’

  ‘Only that she could see why you were smitten. She admitted he left Guy way behind in some ways and she found Jay quite charming. Sorry, have to go love. I’ve just grabbed a minute between clients Good luck. Speak soon.’

  ‘Yes. I’d like a chat. Bye.’

  Later that afternoon and shaking slightly she sat staring at the little strip. The line changed colour. Positive. She shivered, partly with excitement and partly with fear. She screwed up the box and threw it in the bin. The sensor itself, she left in her toilet bag, planning to show it to Jay later. This all confirmed one thing. She had made the right decision not to go back with her parents. She and Jay would get married and have their family. She felt nervous and excited all rolled into one. She wondered how she should break the news. Should she just come out with? Wait until they were both relaxed? Cook a special meal and tell him then?

  He came in briefly between his afternoon and evening shifts.

  ‘Sorry love but I’m having to make up for the time I took off and there’s some overtime on offer. I need to take it. We have a lot to talk about so I’ll see you later.’

  ‘Fine. Yes indeed, there’s heaps to talk about.’

  Would this tension ever come to an end? Always there seemed to be something new. Another long evening loomed ahead. Maybe she should go for a walk but it wasn’t warm and looked as if it might rain again. Her phone rang. Her mother.

  ‘Hallo Mummy,’ she replied.

  ‘How are you?’

  ‘I’m all right. Just waiting for Jay to finish. How are things with you? Daddy less explosive?’

  ‘I wouldn’t say that. Bears with sore heads come to mind. He’s missing you terribly but he won’t admit it. I just wanted to tell you, I’ve spoken to Daddy’s PA. She says the insurers won’t pay up until the police search is finally concluded.’

  ‘That’s just great. What am I supposed to do in the meantime?’

  ‘Well, they will pay for a courtesy car for two weeks and then review it. Have you spoken to the police again?’

  ‘No. But they said they would contact me if there was any news. Still, if I can have something for a week or two, that’s good. What do I have to do?’

  Her mother gave her the in
formation and then hesitated.

  ‘You are certain you won’t come back? We do miss you and whatever he said at the time, Daddy isn’t going to turn you away if you return.’

  ‘I’m not planning on coming back, I’m afraid. Except maybe to visit if I’m welcome.’

  ‘I see. Well, it’s your decision. I’m sorry you feel that way but I can understand. I do like your Jay. He’s terribly good looking but I hope for your sake there’s more to him than a handsome face.’

  ‘Oh I think so. He has ambition and he’s intelligent. What more could I want?’

  ‘Someone capable of earning a decent living. Do you think you’ll marry him?’

  ‘We haven’t talked about it but I hope so.’

  ‘Keep in touch won’t you?’

  ‘Of course. As long as you don’t try to persuade me to come back.’

  ‘I’ll try not to. But please, let me know if you’re short of money. I don’t want you making do again. I’ve got money of my own so Daddy need never know.’

  ‘Thank you very much. I’ll remember but I suspect Jay is far too independent.’

  ‘Independence is only affordable as long as you’re not starving. Goodbye now. I love you.’

  Georgie wondered later how her mother would feel about becoming a grandparent. Probably shocked. She would certainly expect them to be married before the baby was born. Marriage. What a huge decision but she really had no doubts that it was what she wanted more than anything, as long as Jay was the bridegroom.

  When Jay came back he was totally exhausted. He flopped down on the sofa and almost fell asleep immediately. She made him a hot drink and gave it to him.

  ‘Thanks. Look, I know there’s a lot we want to discuss but I am totally shattered. Can we leave it till tomorrow? I shall have some time off then but it’s been a ridiculous day. I have the evening off tomorrow. We can do something if you like.’