by Brook, L M
“Hello?” I carry on dusting as I carry the mobile phone.
“Hi” Daniel sounds very distant. “Hope you don’t mind me calling you so late, I wanted to speak to you when I arrived at mums.”
“Daniel?” I sound surprised but shock myself on feeling pleased to hear he arrived safely. “How was the journey?”
“Tiring.” He pauses. “I feel better for hearing your voice.”
I’m struggling to find the words to speak to him. My feelings are still raw and my anger rears again.
“Daniel, I need some time apart.” I swallow hard as I find the courage to make my demand.
“Darcey, please don’t. We need to spend some time together. I’ve been away so often with work. I need to prove to you how much I want this to work.” Daniel forces out his torrent of words giving no space for me to reply. His breathing slows.
“Daniel, I don’t know how I feel about you anymore. I thought I knew you and that you loved me but I’m no longer sure.” My heart wrenches having to say this but I can’t pretend that everything is ok. “I need space.”
Daniel is momentarily silent as though he has given up the fight. We listen to each other’s breathing.
“Darcey please meet me Monday evening for dinner, anywhere you choose. Please see me, I need to see you. I promise I’ll not pressure you.” He waits patiently for my response.
“I’ll meet you to talk but I’m not promising anything.” My words remain firm and direct.
“I’ll text you when I get back Monday afternoon to arrange a restaurant and time to meet.” He sounds slightly happier at the prospect that we’ll talk on Monday. “Darcey please give me another chance.”
“I’ll speak to you on Monday. Goodbye Daniel.” I put the phone down and feel pleased with my iron performance. I can’t help myself but want him the way we were before but I can’t trust him. To think of him with her hurts too much. Why did he do it?
I finish my cleaning and collapse onto the sofa with a glass of wine. I’m drained physically and mentally thinking about Daniel. Switching off the lounge lights I make my way to the bedroom to prepare my gym and overnight bags for the morning. I’m past tired as I discard my wine and sleep finally wins the battle.
Saturday brings a clearer day as I dress in grey jersey joggers, trainers and a tight fitting red gym top. I tie back my loose curls embracing the thought of a serious work out at the gym before some well-earned pampering. Mum is full of joy as we drive to the Arcazia Hotel. She beams with delight at spending some quality girl time together.
On arrival a Lola lookalike greets us. She is impeccable in every way. We are escorted to the changing rooms then move onto the gym where we’re informed that our spinning class starts in 15 minutes. The lounge next door also shares the same beautiful views of the water glistening in the morning sun. Refreshments are on tap and lunch has been slotted in for 12.15pm in the lounge after our swim, sauna and steam room experiences. The afternoon is allocated to total pleasure with massage, manicures and pedicures. Bliss!
Mum and I struggle with the spinning class, an hour of sheer hard work on a bike. My thighs feel as though they have turned to jelly in protest. We ease ourselves back off the bikes and head for the lounge next door. Turning the corner into the main gym I spot Anthony and Nick working out. Shit! Before I can hide or change direction Anthony spots me in the mirror. Oh no I look a total mess! I manage a fake smile and wave. Anthony dismounts the running machine and Nick waves as he continues while he is hooked up to his iPod. Nick and Anthony look every part the action men with sweat oozing through their T shirts. What a magnificent sight as testosterone fills the air.
“Hi Darcey.” Anthony approaches us wiping his neck with a towel. Mum’s jaw nearly hits the floor as he smiles innocently.
“Hi Anthony,” I murmur and remember my manners. “Oh, Mum this is Anthony; he is the new Head of Strategy and Development at Dorton Airfield.” She composes herself and offers her hand.
“Hello Anthony, lovely to meet you. Darcey hasn’t mentioned you before, how long ago did you join Dorton?” Here she goes, by the time she finishes she will know absolutely everything about him including his shoe size.
“I joined Dorton on Monday so I’m still the new boy.” He smiles sweetly as though butter would not melt in his mouth. “So Ms Brooks how is your pamper day going?” He displays the upmost charm and plays to her girl like eagerness.
“Oh please call me Rosemary,” she replies. “Well my legs are ready to collapse and I’m now looking forward to the Jacuzzi.” My mother is a sucker for a good looking man and I desperately need to remove her before she delves any further.
“Rosemary, are you having lunch in the restaurant?” He is good, he is able to extract any information he wants.
“Yes I think we are booked in the lounge at 12.15.” Mum suddenly realises she is thirsty. “Anthony please excuse me, I must get a drink of water.” She dashes off to the lounge.
“Lovely to meet you” he calls after her. “So Darcey, where are you off to this evening?”
“I’m meeting Lola, Daniel’s sister for a girly night on the town.” I’m careful to release only small extracts of my plans.
“Where do you plan to go?” Anthony is persistent.
“We’re going to have something to eat then drink lots. Chat to some good looking men and then more drink and definitely some dancing.” My mischievous nature is on top form this morning.
Anthony’s mouth curls at the corners and his eye’s tell me he is not impressed with that answer. He seems to be deep in thought as to how to respond. He knows he has no control over me. “Not too much to drink, remember you are all mine tomorrow.” There goes his wicked smile again.
I manage another playful grin and then turn to see where my mother has disappeared to. “I had better find out where Mum has got to.”
Anthony moves closer and his damp hair rubs the side of my face as he whispers in my ear “This is a new experience seeing the hot and sweaty Darcey!”
I can’t contain a low chuckle. “An experience you like?” here I go again with the motormouth.
“Mmm….yes one I’d like to see again but not here.” He leans against the wall waiting for a reply.
“Mmm…. You’re not so bad yourself!” I find myself attracted to his game but then swiftly go in search of Mum.
“Enjoy your day.” Anthony calls after me. I wave to Nick who is still working out.
Mum looks exhausted sprawled on an armchair in the lounge drinking a glass of water. “Anthony seems very pleasant, he obviously likes you.” Mum is hunting for any change in expression on my face.
“Yes Anthony is very easy to work with.” I finish off a glass of water sitting on an armchair opposite whilst watching the boats bob up and down on the water.
“How are things between you and Daniel?” How does my Mum sense these things? She must be able to read my mind. My serious face gives away all isn’t well. “As I suspected things are not good.”
Standing to refill my glass so that I’m not looking directly at her, I decide to tell her the truth. “Mum he’s been seeing someone else.” I am silent knowing that anymore will release the tears that I’m keeping at bay.
“How long has this been going on?” She stands and joins me reaching for more water.
“I found out on Wednesday.” My emotions start to rock as they bubble to the surface.
“Does he know that you know?” my mum is now in full flow. “What did you say to him?”
“I told him to collect his stuff; he wants to speak on Monday about working it out.” With that the walls come crushing down as I stutter and blubber. I’m so angry with myself after promising no more tears.
Mum provides a warm hug and strokes my hair. “Darling do you still love him, is he worth fighting for?”
“I think I still love him but I can’t trust him anymore.” The tears gush freely.
“You need to ask yourself Darcey why he has done this and if he is
likely to do it again? You know him best. If you can’t trust him now do you really want to waste another four years finding out?” My Mum is right of course.
I swipe away tears and feel exposed to the gym through the glass windows.
“I know you’re right Mum but I need to meet with him to get things off my chest. I feel as though there are questions I need answered but ultimately how can I love him the same way again?”
“Darling you know best. Come on; don’t let him ruin our day together.” Mum grabs my hand and we make our way to the showers.
The pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and steam rooms are heaven, just what the doctor ordered. We collect our fluffy bathrobes and make our way back to the lounge for lunch. A table for two is set at the window with beautiful flowers in a vase and champagne on ice.
I pick up the card with the flowers
“Darcey
I love you.
Enjoy your day.
Daniel XX”
I throw the card to one side. Mum says nothing. There is a large white envelope sitting beside the champagne. My urges get the better of me as I pull open the seal to find a note from Anthony simply stating “Enjoy” with 2 tickets to the Arcazia Night Club for this evening. My smile beams across the table as my Mum snatches the note to read what is giving me so much pleasure. She can’t resist a comment.
“You like him don’t you?” Her eyes are full of warmth.
“He makes me feel happy.” I reply. She says nothing and winks.
The waiter arrives to pour the champagne and provides today’s menu choices. I clink glasses with Mum and sit back in my chair beginning to feel life isn’t so bad after all.
Lola is so excited when I arrive at the house. I’m feeling refreshed from my massage and loved my new sparkly finger nails. Lola whizzes me into the kitchen where she is preparing Mojitos to the sound of Bruno Mars. The spicy aroma of Mexican enchiladas welcomes me as they sit bubbling in the oven.
“How was your pamper day?” Lola hands me an icy Mojito.
“Wonderful, I’m a renewed woman.” I take a sip of the sugary but strong cocktail. “What have you been up to?”
“I’ve been seeing a new beau who’s in town on business so I stayed the night at his hotel. That was why I couldn’t make it this morning.” Lola turns her attention to chopping salad to accompany her enchiladas. “Although I suspect he’s married!”
“Oh no, Lola you can do better than that.” I roll my eyes at her in disapproval. “How did you meet?”
“He’s an IT Consultant who I met through the salon. He lives in London and travels all over.” She continues to toss the salad into a glass bowl.
“Well you know what they say about travelling consultants, don’t trust them!” I instantly think does this apply to travelling journalists but refrain from saying this out loud.
Lola smiles “Well tonight is your night Darcey, I need to cheer you up and ensure you have a good time.” She turns to open the oven. “Are you hungry?”
“Ravenous and they look fantastic.” I eagerly gesture referring to her enchiladas as she carries them to the table.
“Well let’s get stuck in and then we can take our time to get ready. I thought we could drink and chat for a while before we go out. As soon as we hit the bars we won’t be able to hear each other or will be dancing anyway!” Lola picks up a large spoon and serves me a huge portion of the rich, piping hot dish.
“That looks good Lola.” I pick up my fork and relish the first mouthful.
“Have you spoken to Daniel?” She continues to serve herself and I’m wondering whether he has set this up to get me back.
“Yes we’re meeting on Monday to talk.” I concentrate on my next mouthful.
“That’s good. He was beside himself when he spoke to me.” Lola is watching my every response.
“So he should be. He has cheated on me and that is unforgivable.” My eyes purposely search out Lola’s reaction.
“Darcey, he’s made a grave mistake and he loves you so much. Please give him a chance.” Lola is pleading on his behalf but of course she would being his sister.
“Lola, I’m sorry but we made love on Tuesday and it was the same sensual, meaningful sex I’ve always shared with Daniel. The next day he was doing the same with Melissa. That makes our relationship a worthless charade.” My words are harsh and hit Lola hard. She looks down and says nothing.
“Lola, he thinks he loves me but he seems to be confused and does not know what he wants. Why did he do it?”
“Darcey, all I know is that Melissa and Daniel were close friends and that obviously grew with the amount of time they were spending together as work colleagues. He deeply regrets what he’s done and all I beg of you is that you give him another chance.” Lola is sincere and carries out her negotiations very well. Daniel would be pleased with her.
“I’m not promising any reconciliation. I’ll meet with him and talk. Now Lola let’s stop talking about Daniel and enjoy our evening.” I smile and continue to polish off my meal.
We continue to talk and drink more cocktails as we prepare for an evening in the town. Our tight fitting black dresses and high heels speak volumes of our intention to snare any eligible men. The taxi arrives at 10pm and we are whisked off to the waterfront to have some drinks at the Apollo bar before we head onto the Arcazia Night Club.
The Apollo is heaving as we squeeze through to the bar. The music is pumping and the base penetrates through to my feet and into the core of my body. Lola is ordering more cocktails. My head is feeling a little light but I am pleasantly numb and Daniel is locked away as a distant memory.
Oh no! I spot my brothers and groan inwardly as Sam and Joe approach us. My heart sinks. They are going to cramp our style and will pester Lola all night.
“Hello ladies.” Sam moves in close to Lola. “Having a good night?”
“We were!” I snap.
“Where’s Daniel, still in Spain?” Joe joins us.
“Yes and he can bloody well stay there!” My tongue is loosened with the effects of four Mojitos. Lola spins around with a scolding gaze and I look to the heavens for support. Too late I’ve said it.
“That sounds ominous, what’s he done wrong?” Sam is now pressing for an answer.
I look at Lola feeling guilty for my outburst but I know Sam won’t let up.
“He’s been seeing someone else.” I blurt as the barman returns to serve Lola and breaking our eye contact.
“Oh dear.” Joe seems more concerned as Sam sups his beer. “So have you split up or have you forgiven him?”
“Can we change the subject?” I demand as Lola hands me another cocktail. She smiles as we clink glasses in agreement.
“Anyway Mum told us to look out for you tonight, she’s worried.” Joe is insistent as Sam is busy eyeing up Lola’s legs.
“I’m a big girl now. I don’t need my brothers to look after me.” I tut feeling a little embarrassed by all the attention. “I intend to get very drunk and chat to some decent men which will be highly unlikely with you two in tow!”
“Ok we get the picture.” Sam holds his hands up. “Lola might like to chat to me.”
“Unlikely.” I persist as Lola laughs. “Come on let’s dance.” We move away from the terrible twosome and join the bustling crowd on the dance floor. They wave to convey their amusement at my disdain and reemphasise their promise to Mum.
Joe and Sam drag a distance behind us as we make our way to the Arcazia. This hotel is so chic and I am hopeful of meeting a better class of gentleman here. Lola is giggly with excitement having not been to the Arcazia night club before. We arrive in the glass lift to the top floor where intimate white leather booths are lit with low pink spotlights and the central island bar is surrounded with shiny chrome and white leather stools clad with suited gentlemen and ladies in their designer attire. The dance floor is besieged with party goers and the DJ is mounted on his throne enjoying the views of the Marina with a wall of glass behind him.
Sam and Joe join us as we reach the bar with Usher booming throughout the club. My whole chest vibrates with the base as my head swims.
“Champagne everyone?” Sam shouts above the music.
“Yes please” Lola smiles at me like a little girl at a party. We can’t resist the rhythm of the music and are drawn into the crowd to dance. The alcohol has certainly possessed our souls as we seductively gyrate our hips to the beat. We are completely lost in the atmosphere and oblivious to everyone around us until Joe waves a glass of champagne in the air. Reluctantly we return to the bar.
“Thank you.” I grin taking a sip of the bubbles.
Joe moves closer. “So do you want me to have words with Daniel?” He asks.
“I can’t have him taking advantage of my little sis.”
I smile sweetly with not a care in the world. “Joe do as you wish, I’m past caring about what Daniel thinks.”
I feel an arm weaving around my waist from behind and resting just above my belly button. Before I could turn I hear his voice.
“Hello Joe, how are you?” Anthony’s voice is low and sexy as the words melt close to my ear.
“Hello Anthony, how are things?” Joe offers a hand to greet him. I twist my head to assure myself it’s him as I see Anthony’s other arm stretch to greet Joe.
Anthony looks heavenly in a lemon shirt and indigo jeans. His eyes twinkle as they catch mine and his smile captivates me. He looks irresistible and smells heavenly, I could eat him alive. I register Lola’s shocked face as Anthony tugs me back against his body. My mind is in disarray, how does he know Joe and what must they all be thinking? Sam returns from somewhere holding out a welcome hand to Anthony.
