Til Morning Comes

by Lisa Ann Harper

  With caution, she retraced her steps to the cloak-room for her wrap. It was located at the entrance to the ballroom so there was no risk of bumping into Connor and anyway, she was not about to hang around. She didn’t want him to find her. He would have to work out for himself what had happened.

  The elevator took her to the lobby. The washrooms were around the corner. Inside, she looked at her reflection, expelling a shuddering breath. Her face was ashen, her eyes almost black as she took the pearls out of her hair. She collected her brush from her purse, in readiness if anyone came in, to appear to be rearranging her coiffure. Her wait lasted almost forty-five minutes during which time her anxiety level rose by jerky degrees. She didn’t think Connor would come into a female toilet, but if he were determined to find her, that would not stop him. In the end she sat in a cubicle and sank her head to her knees, trying to steady her nerves. She relived the crumbling and humiliating encounters with him and experienced again her disbelief that he could treat her so contemptuously. She had thought there was a warm rapport between them; certainly that he respected her, but a warped and hurtful streak had been masked by a false friendship.

  At last she heard her name and flung herself out, straight into Mal’s arms.

  “Darling, let’s get you out of here.” She didn’t wait for explanations, heading straight for the door, leading the way to the car. The prominent tears, eyes red-rimmed, had told her enough. For a moment, before collapsing, Jellie had looked at her, her pain completely undisguised.

  The car was still warm and with relief Jellie sank down into the seat, breathing great gulps of air. Gradually she felt the tension ebb and her body begin to relax. Mal didn’t seek clarification, concentrating only on getting them home. A slight drizzle had come out of the sky, but at this time of night the roads were clear and she made better time. They were at Knowle village inside thirty minutes.

  Mal had been in bed when the call came through. Unable to sleep with Jellie gone, she had been watching a late movie. It was a good one: Bank Job. She had seen it before, but was happy to have it keep her company; possibly able to provide a more powerful distraction. Sometimes it did; sometimes not.

  When the mobile had lit up she knew instantly who it was. Immediately alert, she had read the message: Please get me Best Western Hotel. Wasting no time she had shrugged into track pants and wind breaker over the PJs. The whole way on the drive her head had wrestled with what could have gone wrong. At least she knew Jellie was not broken and bleeding, like she had agonised last time. Nonetheless, something was seriously amiss for an urgent summons at two o’clock in the morning. With the dismay of shock still inside her, she had speculated about Connor, but this had only served to lead her around in fruitless circles. Now she knew one thing for sure, she would get Connor Mitchell’s name taken off the Patchford portfolio. Armstrong and Walsh may still remain Jellie’s solicitors, but she would deal only with a senior partner – certainly not a junior one.

  * * *

  Saturday, May 20th. all was ready for a deadly party. Mal and Jellie had thought of everything and now were waiting for the crowd, taking it easy in front of a low fire, just a token really, although the night temperature could still drop. Rented chairs and occasional tables were outside under a marquee, in case of rain, allowing for a breath of air and providing a smoking zone. Dressed casually, with comfortable shoes, they were prepared to spend the night on the run.

  Jellie was treating herself to a glass of sparkling wine to help steady her nerves. Mal reckoned her medication was down to such a low dose, a small indulgence once in a while wouldn’t hurt. She was sticking to beer for the night.

  “Mal, before everyone gets here … this is for you.” She held out a prettily wrapped package with a card. Mal looked across in surprise as she ripped the envelope. The picture on the front was of a Pre-Raphaelite maiden. Her long hair dangled almost to the water as she gazed into a dark pool, set in a woodland glade. The colours were startling and vivid, typical of the nineteenth century movement. Inside there was no verse, only Jellie’s simple words of birthday greeting.

  “Oh lovely!” so typical of Jellie she thought, to choose something like this. She moved onto the gift remarking: “You shouldn’t have Jells. This party is more than enough.”

  “But I wanted to give you something personal.” Her eyes glittered with a lustrous spark. She could hardly wait for Mal to see. “Go ahead,” she urged. Taking her time, Mal undid the silver bow, but then tore the paper to expose a velvet box, the kind you get from the Jewellers’. It snapped open to lay bare seven chunky, highly polished, gold rings laced on a solid gold braid. They looked heavy and expensive. Mal was speechless. Never had she owned anything so stunning; so valuable.

  “Let me put it on for you. I’ve always thought a beautiful neck like yours deserves some special attention,” she observed, laughing happily as she moved in behind her. She closed the parrot clip then came to the front to judge the effect. “As I thought, it looks made for you. Look in the mirror. See what you think.”

  Mal got up and did as she was told. She had to agree, it was just right. Not fussy, and being a short chain, the rings were revealed in the ‘V’ of the open-necked shirt. She stood for a moment to regain control of her emotions. With a deep breath she returned to Jellie and from behind, clasped her shoulders and planted a kiss on the top of her head. Jellie turned up an eager face, but Mal was moving back to the seat saying: “Thank you so much Jells. I love it. I’ll never take it off.”

  Jellie was pleased, having received the reaction she wanted. So many times she had watched the controlled movements of this woman’s throat and knew her neck deserved to be shown off by glittering gold.

  “These are the seven rings of luck. Do you want to know what they represent?”

  “Of course.”

  “Well, the first is for long life; the second good friends. The third ring is for good health and the fourth is love.” At this Jellie felt her cheeks fill with a ruby blush, but she carried on bravely. Number five is wealth, the next peace and the last ring is for happiness.” She took a sip from her glass and gazed adoringly over its rim.

  Still overcome Mal could only shake her head, then: “You’re so thoughtful Jells. You couldn’t have given me a nicer present.” This time Mal moved forward to the edge of her chair and clasped Jellie’s hands, so filled with ardour her face glowed, but she kissed her on the cheek. Her lips were hot; Jellie felt the burn. There was a sharp knock at the door although it stood open. Hurriedly Mal turned away, clumsily regaining control.

  “Come! Come in. Hi guys,” she cried out, breathlessly.

  Typical of guests, those who had the greatest distance to travel were the first to arrive. Mal had kept in touch with the workmates still at the QEH and of course Monica was invited. Their partners and/or spouses were welcome to join in the celebrations and Monica’s husband had come too. They were soon followed by her new co-workers at the Selly Oak. They had vowed they would not miss this event for the world.

  Jellie’s staff from the riding school all came and brought along their partners. Not too many of them since only Nessa was married and Tyson had just recently started dating. It was great to see some parents with their kids too, but they didn’t stay long.

  Driftwood Acres had entered into an arrangement with Doyle’s for all their stock feed and saddlery needs and by now they knew the staff very well. Since the business was just starting up, the company had generously agreed to provide them with a free delivery service. In recognition of their goodwill, they too, had been invited. Of course, the neighbours on both sides turned up which was good, since Mal had the music playing none-stop and cranked up at full blast.

  A short lull in the proceedings gave her a chance to check her phone: one missed call. Kylie was running late, but for sure she’d be there. This was terrific. She had very much wanted to use the party to catch up with her old friend. Not everyone would stay the course, coming and going as they pleased. They just hope
d people would mingle and feel free to make new friends. With such an eclectic mix, there would surely be someone to hook up with.

  The evening moved on with no lack of positive animation and both Mal and Jellie were kept busy circulating the nibbles, chatting and keeping glasses filled. Jellie settled down and realised, to her surprise, she was really enjoying playing hostess.

  “I reckon it’s time you put that tray down and had a dance.” Kylie stood in front of Mal blocking her path, a big smile lighting her face.

  “You’re right Ky, I love anything Ministry of Sound puts out.”

  Kylie had a new girlfriend, Emma Gordyn. They had been together three weeks. Mal thought there was a distinct possibility that given enough time they could become an item. After the second dance they took time out and moved to the garden. Kylie flopped herself into a chair while Mal got them each a beer. On her return she pulled out the other chair, prepared to take a break. The guests had found the bar and ice and were successfully helping themselves.

  “So … I see you and Nigella have a good set-up here. You’re a lucky bugger. She’s the most gorgeous of creatures and obviously adores you. How did an ugly nut-bag like you get to land it so jammy?” She laughed and took a big swig from the bottle.

  “What do you mean Ky? Jells isn’t a sister.”

  “Come off it Mal. Maybe she wasn’t when you first met, but she sure as hell is now. She and Emma had good chats earlier and she was putting out all the right vibes. She lights up like a candle when she’s talking about you. Don’t tell me you haven’t … you know …”

  “Absolutely not Ky,” Mal responded indignantly, eyebrows shooting up. “I have always respected her,” but as the words left her mouth she felt herself redden under Kylie’s scrutiny.

  “That’s as maybe MM. It’s just something you’re not seeing but … I bet the thought has crossed your mind. Don’t be trying to pull it over on me. I haven’t had a brain freeze, even if this is my umpteenth drink but … who’s counting?” Her eyes bore into her friend. She couldn’t believe Mal had not made a move.

  Mal looked frankly at Kylie. “I can’t deny that I love her.” She fingered the friendship rings. “You’re right, she’s the most wonderful girl, but truly, I would never take advantage of her youthful innocence.”

  “Mal, you speak of her as though she’s a child. She’s a young woman and the way she looks at you – with all a woman’s natural needs. You can see it in her eyes and Emma heard it in her voice.”

  Mal continued to stare fixedly at Kylie eyebrows knitted in thought, but inside she had retreated to her own world. Had she been missing something, too intent on doing the right thing? What about Connor – until he blew it?

  “I must get back.” Abruptly she veiled her gaze and got to her feet. With her rise, Emma appeared behind her shoulder. She heard the last words.

  “Then I’ll take the seat.” She was drinking a Skyblue and set her bottle down on the table. Emma was a perfect stand-in for the ‘girl next door’, but early on the boys had found out it would be pointless to try their luck with her. She was fresh-faced with short, straight, light brown hair, in a permanent state of disarray, but with the current fashion, she fitted right in. Slightly plump, appearing younger than her years, she tended to favour loose clothing, but her size added to her cheerful amiability. Her mouth, gently curved, expressed humour and sensitivity; she got on well with everyone.

  “Hang loose Mal. Join us Em.” Kylie pulled up another chair. She was trying to get Mal to chill out. She had detected a weariness in her usually animated eyes and the creases, from nose to mouth appeared deeper. She had been bemused by the changes, but now she believed she knew the reason.

  “Thanks Ky, but I’d best keep an eye on things. Here you go Em.” Now two chairs invited her, but she took the one next to Kylie. “I’ll see you guys later.” They watched Mal’s retreating back.

  “What was all that about?”

  “I’m not sure….”

  Mal found Jellie in the kitchen. “How’s it going?” By now it was well past midnight and those who remained were interested in tea or coffee, for the road.

  “Great, but I’m beginning to feel a bit weary. Now I know why Mama used to look strained after one of her weekend dinner parties. I love having everybody here, but I’m not used to operating so intensely for so long.”

  “It’s thinning out now you’ll have a chance to slow down. Here let me take those.” She collected the tray which carried the beverages: “For inside, or out?”

  “Oh, just the group by the door.”

  She smiled into Mal’s eyes, but that one did not smile back. Instead, she took time to look properly and allowed the image to register in her consciousness. Indeed, this person was no longer that girl she had first encountered. She had seen the changes that had taken place in her physique, but apart from that, had missed her developing maturity. Nigella had lived through many experiences and life had taught her many lessons. She moved away, deep in contemplation.

  CHAPTER FOUR

  At last they had sent their guests on their way and only Kylie and Emma remained. They were sprawled out in the living room, surveying the scene of chaos and reviewing the happenings of the evening with Mal, when Jellie came in. She heard her say: “Listen guys it’s so late, why don’t you take the spare room?” then she laughed. “If I get you to stay over, then I can corral you into helping with the clean-up.” “Mm…m, I’d like not to have to drive,” Emma confessed: “And this big sister here has had far too much.” She reached over to put her arm around her partner. “She doesn’t go dykey often, but now and again she ties one on, bless her little bobby socks.” Kylie let her head flop onto Emma’s shoulder as a convenient pillow.

  Jellie was quite taken aback by this scenario. For one thing, they didn’t have a spare bed and for another, Emma’s way of addressing her friend was well – different. As she took the other easy chair she looked across at Mal questioningly, raising a shapely, arched eyebrow.

  “I’ll put fresh sheets on the bed and give you some towels. C’mon Em, I’ll show you.” As she passed Jellie she whispered: “It’s all right. I’ll take the couch.”

  Jellie turned her gaze to Kylie, but she had already relaxed enough to be dropping off. She surmised they wouldn’t mind sharing a bed, seeing as it was well after two o’clock. The others came back and collected Kylie who mumbled a rather slurred: “See ya later.”

  Once they were settled, Mal returned to the living room with a doona and pillow.

  “I’ll be fine here Jells. Look, you must be whacked. I’ll see to locking up OK?”

  “Are you sure?”

  “Of course, it’s not the first time I’ve slept on a divan.” She threw back her head. “I’ve even been known to rest my weary bones on the floor, without a pillow” She stopped laughing. “Go on Jells, I’m fine.”

  Jellie went to her room reluctantly and changed for sleep. But sleep didn’t come. She knew Mal was as worn out as she. It had been a generous offer, but really, if those two could share, why couldn’t they? Listening for a moment that all was quiet, she slipped out of bed and padded down the passage with quick, light steps. From the base-board night lights that failed to probe even into dim corners, she could still see Mal overhanging the edges and the duvet skewed halfway to the floor. In the morning she would wake up bone stiff. Gently, she shook her bare shoulder. Yes, it was frigid in this cold night air.

  “Mal, this is no good. Come where it’s warm.”

  Mal, half asleep, registered it was Jellie. She would like that very much. “I’m all right here Jells, don’t get cold.”

  “No Mal. I’m not leaving without you and I will get cold if you keep me here shivering in my nightie.” She pulled the doona totally off and grabbed Mal’s hand. She swung her feet to the floor and stood up. Together they followed the lights and went back to Jellie’s room where Mal could see the welcoming outline of a double bed. Jellie closed the door quietly behind them.


  It felt so good to be stretched out properly and the warmth of Jellie’s body soon penetrated to her bones. In no more than an instant Mal was asleep. Still Jellie could not find oblivion. She lay next to Mal and listened to her even breathing. Mal turned and she felt her hovering breath on her cheek. It was like a warm and gentle kiss in the cold indifferent night; a warm kiss that kindled a spark to ignite her far from indifferent body.

  Here was Mal so close, her silver blonde head resting on the pillow beside her … and asleep. At last she was free to reach out. First she touched her face, stroked the curve of her cheek as it led to her throat. She let her trembling hand slide down to her neck where she felt the rhythmic, pulsing beat next to the chain. It was like, for a moment, she was touching the very life-force of this woman. The force was powerful. It drew her on to explore further. Now she felt herself suffused by an exciting heat that was threatening to flare into a raging blaze and she wanted to throw off the covers, but she dared not disturb her. This exploration would then have to stop and she couldn’t bear that, not yet, not now. All she wanted was to stay in the moment.

  With imperceptible increments she edged closer, allowing her exploring hand to wander past the neck to the shoulder. Just a little, she eased the sheet down until she could hold Mal’s hand, gently she drew it up towards her until she could feel its warmth against the twin mounds of her breasts. Her nipples wanted to be touched, so bad! She stopped the movement, but she couldn’t let the hand slip away.