by Lucy Coleman
‘I didn’t know she was coming. We have a lot planned. They’re coming to my place for lunch tomorrow before I head off to the gallery to oversee the final preparations for the party.’
‘And after that?’
‘Two nights at the villa, thanks to you, and then some sightseeing. I get to be a tour guide and I will be taking them to that little bookshop.’
‘And the guy you were hugging? Was that a surprise, too?’
His tone has changed and it catches me unaware.
‘What do you mean, a surprise?’
‘You were expecting him, then.’ Is that jealousy I hear in his voice?
‘No. When I realised I’d forgotten to arrange a lift for them, Carolina said she’d sort something out. Miguel was doing me a favour.’
‘But you know him, that was obvious.’
‘Reid, he’s just a friend who stepped in to do me a favour. Why are you quizzing me?’
‘Have you been seeing him while I was away? Has he been to your house?’
‘What business is it of yours?’ I demand, angrily.
He pulls the car into a space a few metres away from the entrance to the courtyard. I notice that there’s still a light on in Maria’s kitchen.
‘Because when I saw you two together, I wondered if that is what this morning was all about.’
I push my head back against the headrest, expelling a sigh that comes from deep within me. ‘Reid, I’m tired and I can’t do this right now.’
‘But he’s been here?’ he asks, turning to face me and watching for my reaction.
‘Once, yes, briefly but I didn’t invite him.’
‘And yet he came,’ he replies, sounding angry now.
I’m speechless. It sounds like an accusation. Does that make Reid feel better about his decision to reconcile with Beatriz? Is this a way of appeasing his conscience?
Then a horrible thought pops into my head. Does Reid think he can live a sham of a life with Beatriz and turn to me for comfort and support whenever he needs it? I’m in danger of saying something I’ll regret if I don’t stop this now.
‘Reid, thank you for the lift, but forgive me, I’m very tired and you must be, too.’ With that, I open the car door and ease myself out. ‘I’ll see you at the gallery tomorrow, goodnight.’
Walking away from him, I don’t look back. But even when I reach the front door and slide the key into the lock, Reid still hasn’t started the engine. It’s so quiet, so peaceful, and yet I’ve never felt so jaded and on edge. After the mistake with the car, this is another step in the wrong direction. I’m no one’s property and I can’t be bought, but I didn’t for one moment think Reid was that kind of man. Did he think I’d settle for whatever attention he was willing to give me?
Two minutes later, there’s a light tap on the door and I pause for a second to steel myself, before swinging it open. But it isn’t Reid, it’s Maria, carrying a little casserole dish, wrapped in a thick cloth.
‘I’ve been listening out for you. I made some of your favourite pastéis de bacalhau in case you were hungry.’
‘Come in and thank you, Maria, that was so thoughtful of you.’
She follows me into the kitchen and places the casserole dish on the chopping board. It’s obvious that I’m upset and in no mood to eat.
‘Can I ask how it went tonight?’ she asks, hesitantly.
‘Everyone enjoyed it, so yes, it went well,’ I say, indicating for her to take a seat.
‘And yet you are not happy?’
I shrug my shoulders, too dejected to speak.
‘Was there an upset? Or is this something to do with your visitor this morning?’ she enquires, gently.
It’s out of character for Maria to probe, but how can I talk to her about this given the delicacy of the situation?
‘Not really. I’m not involved with two men, Maria, but I know how it looks. Miguel is the friend of a friend, no more than that. He’s lonely, looking for something to fill his life because he’s a little lost at the moment.’
‘And the other man?’
I can’t look her in the eyes. ‘He’s not married. He was, but he’s divorced.’
Her brow lifts a little. ‘It happens. It is sad.’
Well, that wasn’t the reaction I was expecting.
‘But he and his ex-wife have a daughter, and even though they no longer love each other, it’s never really over is it? The connection might not be the same, but they fit together, and I can see that.’
‘But if two people make each other unhappy, what good does it serve living a lie? How do you mean “fit together”, I do not understand?’
‘She has family connections that help him in his work.’
‘Ah, business. That is a different type of partnership. Do not confuse the heart with the head, Seren. It is not a sin to grab happiness. If no one gets hurt, then surely the world is a better place, yes? There is too much hate. It’s what I believe.’
She leans on the table to pull herself up from the chair.
‘But what if two people want different things?’ I look up at her, frowning.
‘If both hearts say it is right, then they will find a way.’
I stand to follow her out and she stops, turning around to face me.
‘When my son told me that he had fallen in love with someone, I was thrilled. Then he explained that she was not of the Catholic faith and she had been married before. It was not what I had expected for him. They had a simple wedding and before he was taken from us, she made him truly happy. Would I change anything? No. And I have Luis, who grows more like him every day. And a daughter-in-law who is also my best friend. That is what matters and I am grateful to God for the blessings he has bestowed upon me. Decide what is right for you, Seren, then make peace with your decision.’
‘Are we all set? Everything looks good, including us,’ I laugh, as Antero, Carolina and I stand nervously awaiting the first arrivals. It’s party time, but I will be glad when tonight is over.
Antero is looking very smart indeed and Carolina, who has the height and the figure of a model, is wearing a gorgeous, floral print dress in muted shades of green and lemon.
Feeling a little self-conscious, I smooth my hands down over the seams of my figure-hugging, burnt orange halter-top dress and wonder if I should have gone for something simpler. Cascading down from the clasp at my hairline, a line of ruffles end at the hem, which is mid-calf length and is more dramatic than I’m used to. When I bought it, I thought it would boost my confidence, but tonight I’m not sure I can carry it off after what happened yesterday. Then, having spent a couple of hours with Mum and Judi this morning, it was hard to switch back into work mode. And the truth is that I’m dreading seeing Reid. My emotions are all over the place still, but somehow I must put my feelings to one side because it’s supposed to be a celebration.
‘Tonight the gallery will really come alive,’ Antero remarks, unable to take his eyes off Carolina. It’s wonderful to finally see them a little more relaxed around each other in public. It also marks the official end of our team venture, as well as any direct contact between Reid and myself.
‘Were we expecting so many photographers to be outside?’ I ask Carolina.
‘The news about Rafael and Yolanda has created a lot of interest. Is she coming tonight?’
‘Not as far as I’m aware,’ I reply. ‘But who knows?’
My phone rings and it’s Filipe, asking if I can join him in the boardroom, and I hurry over to the lift.
The moment I walk into the room Filipe looks up, smiling.
‘Seren,’ he hurries towards me and, to my surprise when I hold out my hand to shake, he grabs it in both of his, taking a moment to look me directly in the eye. ‘We were just talking about the media coverage today. A crisis was averted and we all agree that you managed the situation perfectly.’
Behind him, Senhora Veloso, Senhor Portela, Reid and Bernadette are gathered around a laptop set at the end of the conference tabl
e.
‘Come and have a look at a preview Rafael sent through of the still shots.’
‘He isn’t here yet?’ I query, thinking that he’s cutting it fine.
‘Senhor Sequeira has confirmed that they are running late, but that Yolanda Abreu will be accompanying them.’
‘Well, I’m sure the press outside will be delighted,’ I reply, hoping the gossip doesn’t steal the limelight from Rafael. ‘These shots are amazing. It’s hard to believe the models are still trainees. I can’t wait to see the footage.’
‘Has the date been set for Reid to do the voice-over?’ Senhor Portela asks.
‘Yes. The studio is booked, and we will have the full thing ready for the VIP premiere showing on Friday.’
‘But aren’t you on holiday next week?’ he replies.
‘Yes, but I’m leaving it in capable hands. Carolina will ensure that everything runs smoothly.’ I’m purposely avoiding looking in Reid’s direction and he’s ominously quiet.
‘Ah, yes, and that reminds me,’ Senhora Veloso joins in. ‘Filipe, it is time we offered Antero a permanent contract. His help has been invaluable, and as his work on this project is now complete, we need to get that sorted.’
If Antero were in the room, he would have to restrain himself from fist-pumping the air. His hard work isn’t going to go unrewarded and I’m thrilled for him, but I won’t spoil the surprise as I think Filipe will want to be the one to break the news.
Reid walks around the table, to stand next to me. ‘And I hear that the soundtrack in the background while I’m doing the narrative, will be one of Yolanda’s new recordings?’
If this is an attempt to get my attention, then it won’t work. I give him the briefest of glances before looking away.
‘Yes. Her music is wonderful. Thank you for suggesting it in the first place, Reid.’
I feel it’s only right everyone is aware it was his idea, but I’m conscious that all eyes are on us.
‘And Bernadette,’ I add, taking the focus in another direction, ‘what a triumph. The models’ gowns were such a brilliant representation of Reid’s incredible artwork.’
All eyes are back on the computer screen once more, as Filipe scrolls through the photos. Everyone seems content. That just leaves Rafael. But as it’s obvious that he’s madly in love with Yolanda, I’m not expecting any problems.
22
Feeling Overwhelmed
‘Seren,’ Tomas waves out and I make my way across to him. The gallery is buzzing and the party is in full flow.
‘Hello, Tomas. I hope you are having a good time.’ He leans in to kiss my cheek, giving me a broad smile.
‘We are. Let me introduce you to my wife, Marisa.’
The woman in front of me has a friendly demeanour and her eye contact is warm.
‘Lovely to meet you, Marisa. I’m so glad you were able to come.’
For a brief second, I hesitate and am about to offer my hand when she steps forward and then throws her arms around me as if we are already friends. It’s a pleasant surprise. Marisa is at least a foot shorter than Tomas and whereas he exudes a rather cool, professional vibe, she has a bubbly personality.
‘I feel I already know you, Seren,’ she exclaims. ‘Leonor and Ana have talked about nothing else other than the fashion shoot since I arrived. It sounded amazing and I so regret I could not get away any earlier. Tomas springs things on me at the last moment and then he flies off, leaving me to it. And so I end up missing the event that everyone is talking about!’
Tomas begins to laugh, before bowing his head rather apologetically. ‘It’s all change for us now, but it will settle down my love, I promise. And when the video is ready, you’ll be one of the first to see it.’
I feel like I’m interrupting a special moment between them, as he takes her hand and raises it to his mouth. He kisses her fingertips and it’s rather touching that he doesn’t care that we’re surrounded by business acquaintances, as well as friends and family.
Marisa blushes, extracting her hand and giving him a knowing look.
‘Seren,’ she says, turning to look at me. ‘Do you have time to escort me around the exhibition? I’m sure my darling husband has other things to attend to. Perhaps you could share with me your personal favourite in Reid’s collection?’
‘Of course. I’d be delighted, Marisa.’
She waves Tomas off and as soon as he steps away, she turns back to face me. ‘He feels he can’t leave my side, but I’m perfectly capable of doing my own thing. Besides, every two minutes someone calls out to him, which is frustrating as I’m here to see the exhibition, not listen to the endless chatter.’
As we wander off towards the stairs to the first floor, I lean in, conspiratorially. ‘Well, I’m delighted to get away from the noise for a while,’ I acknowledge. ‘It’s much quieter upstairs.’
‘Tomas said you have not worked at the gallery for very long?’ she enquires, sounding genuinely interested.
‘A little over six months, now. The time has flown.’
‘And you don’t miss home?’
We stroll along the first-floor landing and then on into the main exhibition room. There are probably only about twenty people milling around as most are downstairs enjoying the buffet and refreshments.
‘I did, at first, but my mum and my best friend are here for a week and it reminds me that they are only a plane ride away. Here you go, this is my favourite display, but I love them all, equally.’
Every piece features a bird and with more than thirty pieces of artwork, it’s impossible to single out just one. From the intricate pencil drawings to the bold, colourful canvases where the brushstrokes seem quite crude up close, but as you step back you can appreciate the skill involved. The purple heron seems to draw Marisa’s gaze.
‘He’s gorgeous, isn’t he?’
She nods her head, as she takes a few moments to focus on the details. ‘Have you ever seen Reid while he’s working in his studio?’ she asks.
It’s funny how instinctively you know when someone is genuine and that you are going to get on with them. Marisa is one of those people.
‘No. I caught him sketching once, but he wouldn’t let me see what he was doing.’
She laughs and it’s such a tinkling, happy sound. I wonder if that’s why Tomas is so relaxed, because his home life keeps him grounded.
‘He’s very secretive. But when he’s in the flow the ceiling could fall in and he probably wouldn’t even glance up. Some things cannot be taught, they simply come from within.’
Before I have time to respond, Senhora Veloso approaches, waving to attract my attention.
‘Ah, I should have guessed I would find you in here. Wonderful, isn’t it, Marisa? Have you seen the main display and beautiful fabrics, yet?’
‘No. This is our first stop.’
‘I apologise for interrupting you then, but Filipe was hoping to have a quick word with Seren.’
‘Of course. It was nice chatting, Seren. Hopefully, we can catch up later.’
‘I do hope so, Marisa. Senhora Veloso, where will I find Filipe?’
‘He is on the second floor looking at the plans for the extension to the shop. He promised he wouldn’t keep you away from the party for very long,’ Senhora Veloso smiles at me. ‘And please, I keep forgetting to say you must call me Mara.’
As I walk off to find him, I’m rather touched by that gesture of friendship.
Sure enough, Filipe is tucked away behind the temporary screens that were erected to separate off the shop. A special display has been set up next door to showcase the fabrics and soft furnishings tied in with the exhibition. Surprisingly, there are more people up here than there are browsing around the artwork on the first floor.
He’s poring over the architect’s plans, his glass of wine on the makeshift table next to him, untouched.
‘Ah, she found you! Marvellous. Please take a seat.’
Settling myself down opposite him, he seems very relax
ed tonight.
‘The directors and I have been talking with our investors and we have a little proposition to run past you, Seren. It seems that the general consensus is that the fashion shoot was an enormous success and one that people are already asking if we intend to repeat again in the future. What are your thoughts about that?’
I’m thrown, as that’s the last thing I expected to hear. ‘Hmm. Well, of course anything is doable, but it is a huge commitment in terms of man hours. And there’s always the risk that if the tickets don’t sell well, then it may not even be possible to recoup the costs, let alone make a profit. I think we were extremely lucky to attract three such prominent names, which undoubtedly drew the crowds.’
‘Your concerns are duly noted, Seren. But we have been approached by a garment manufacturer here in Lisbon, who is prepared to underwrite the costs if we do something similar for them. That would entail a two-month-long exhibition, tied in with the photo shoot. It would be promoting a new, sustainable fashion label. Perhaps give this some thought, as the chances are that if we can repeat this success, our investors would consider making this an annual event. This would involve upscaling your team on a permanent basis, as together with the spring and winter exhibitions, you would be very busy indeed. Anyway, we can talk further about this after your holiday, but I wanted you to take some time to think it through at your leisure.’
‘Thank you, Filipe. I will do that.’
‘Success reaps many rewards, Seren. Continue on like this and I can see you joining our board of directors within a couple of years. Now, go and enjoy yourself, you’ve earnt it.’
As I walk away, I can’t even begin to process this turn of events. This wasn’t what I signed up for at all.
I hurry over to the lift when, to my horror, the doors slide open and out step Reid, Beatriz and three other people who are all chatting and laughing. I’m not even sure they spot me, as I veer to the left and begin descending the large, spiral staircase until I’m out of view. As I slow down, my heart is racing, and I stop to catch my breath and survey the party goers on the ground floor.
