Scandal

by Stirk, Vivienne

  “Are you alright?” he asked. “You look a bit pale.”

  “Yes, I’m fine. I think I just need a little air.”

  “Too much champagne aye? Would you like me to take you home now?”

  “Yes please, if you don’t mind.”

  “I’ll just pay for the food and then we’ll go.”

  Finn drove in silence, sensing Ashleigh wanted to be quiet. He was hoping it was just the excitement of the day that had washed her out.

  The television booming out loudly dissolved the peace and quiet Ashleigh had been enjoying on the drive home. Simone and Neil were watching a film. They’d both booked the day off work, making the most of being lazy. Feeling excited once again for being able to share her news, Ashleigh was all smiles by the time she saw Simone. Stopping the film when Ashleigh came into the room, Simone couldn’t wait to see her friend, certain she’d have got the job.

  “Did you get the job then?” Simone asked

  “I did. I got something else as well.”

  Looking puzzled Simone said, “Like what?”

  “A fiancé.”

  “Oh, my, God! You’ve got to be kidding me?” Simone shrieked.

  Neil was up on his feet shaking Finn’s hand. “Congratulations mate. You don’t mess about do you?”

  Putting an arm around Ashleigh he said, “No way. Not with this girl.”

  Ashleigh showed Simone her ring, which she admired. Knowing how Ashleigh’s life was virtually a total reverse of how it used to be when Simone had first met her, it made her want to shed a tear. Ashleigh had been plucked from a life of Hell and self loathing to a life where people loved her and treated her like a human being.

  “I’m so pleased for you Ashleigh,” Simone said as they hugged.

  “Thank you. There is something I’d like to ask you actually Simone.”

  “Go on,” Simone replied with caution.

  “Would you be my maid of honour?” Simone gasped as her hand went to her mouth in total shock. There were tears now in her eyes as she answered the question.

  “It would be an absolute honour. Of course I will.”

  “That brings me on to my question Neil,” Finn added.

  “I’m all ears.”

  “Will you be my best man?”

  “Course I will.”

  Ashleigh and Simone laughed in disbelief.

  “Is that it? Is that all you can say to your best mate who’s given you probably the most responsible job a mate can give?” Simone asked Neil.

  “What more do you want me to do? Go down and kiss his feet?”

  “Tut, tut. You blokes haven’t any romance,” Simone added.

  Pulling her close Neil said, “Come here and give me a kiss you cheeky mare.”

  Whilst Simone and Neil enjoyed friendly banter, Finn joined Ashleigh in the kitchen to help with drinks. He took her in his arms, rubbing his nose on hers.

  “You do know that if I have another drink I won’t be able to drive.”

  “I know,” she smiled. “You can stay here tonight, as long as you promise to behave yourself.”

  “I promise. I’m house trained.”

  His kisses never failed to send butterflies through her stomach. His love making was also very sensual. They’d been together six months before he’d made a move on her. Unsure whether Ashleigh had still been a virgin, he’d taken his time, following her lead until he felt he could move a little further. And afterwards, as they’d laid there in his flat snuggled up together after that first time, their relationship felt complete. Finn had never pried into her past. She’d never given any information away freely about past boyfriends, so he’d never asked.

  He’d nearly gotten married when he was twenty two, calling it off before he made the fateful error. Finn had been happy to carry on with the engagement for longer rather than rushing headlong into marriage, but his fiancée Isabel had gone into a massive strop, saying she was embarrassed for being made to look a fool. She finished things the very next day after crying on the phone to him for over an hour.

  Jack had been relieved of course. He’d liked Isabel but thought she could appear a little slack at times. He liked women with a bit more about them, liked women who were unafraid to get their hands dirty. Isabel was too bothered about having her nails manicured, perfect hair and an all year round tan. She would have been the type, Jack would say once the relationship was over, who wouldn’t want children because she didn’t want to spoil her figure. Finn had felt upset when it had ended but he’d survived.

  As they remained in the kitchen, holding each another close, Finn said, “You know we’ve lots to talk about don’t you?”

  “What do you mean?”

  Her mind raced, wondering if he was going to ask her to tell all about her past before they got married.

  “Well, we need to discuss when you’d like to get married, where, how many guests.”

  “I never thought about that,” she admitted.

  “How about we have a chat one day next week? A Christmas wedding would be nice.”

  “You are quite a romantic aren’t you?”

  “I just want to make you my wife and make you happy. Aren’t girls supposed to love weddings?”

  “Yes but I never actually thought I’d ever find myself in this position, that’s all.”

  “And why, may I ask?”

  Not wanting to let the cat out of the bag she said, “It doesn’t matter. Shall we go back to the others?”

  “Okay.”

  Celebrations went on until the early hours of the morning. Simone couldn’t help looking at Ashleigh from time to time, knowing how her life had changed. They were quite a couple Finn and Ashleigh, Simone thought, and in a way, felt a little envious for the happiness she was wrapped in. Thinking about Ashleigh’s parents not being on the scene made Simone wonder who Ashleigh would go shopping with for her dress, hoping she’d ask her.

  Ashleigh lay next to Finn that night, thinking about being married to him. If they were to have a Christmas wedding, it wouldn’t give them long to plan things, only six months. The thought of everything they had to do between now and then suddenly over whelmed her. Thinking about the dilemma with her parents came back to haunt her that night too. She felt as though she was heading towards self destruct. If Finn found out about her past, there was no telling what he’d do. He certainly wouldn’t want to marry her. His parents would probably disown her too. Thinking about everything she stood to lose filled her with fear.

  In the morning, when Neil and Finn had gone to watch the football match, she’d have to speak to Simone. She was certain she’d know what to do. For now though, she’d just have to sleep on it.

  Chapter Seven

  When Ashleigh awoke the next morning, it was to Finn watching her.

  “Hello sleepy,” he said.

  “Hello. What time is it?”

  “Eight o’clock. Can I get you some breakfast?”

  “Some toast and coffee would be nice.”

  “You sit tight and I’ll bring us some up.”

  He jumped out of bed and clonked noisily downstairs. Ashleigh hoped he hadn’t woken Simone. She could be a little grumpy on a morning if disturbed before time. It wasn’t long before he was sliding into bed again.

  “This toast is really delicious Finn, thanks.”

  “You’re welcome. I could get used to breakfast in bed. In fact, when we’re married, we will have to have Saturday’s as breakfast in bed day.”

  “You are so sweet, do you know that?”

  “In fact I do,” he replied smugly. “I better get up. Neil and I are going to the football later. You don’t mind do you?”

  “Course not and it won’t change when we’re married.”

  Leaning over to her he kissed her before saying, “I know it won’t.”

  At first, she wasn’t sure how to take his comment but when he laughed as he started to get out of bed, a sense of relief flooded her. They made plans to see each other later. She felt so
in love, so happy, yet half expecting to wake up from a dream at any moment with the cobwebs from her old room dangling down above her eyebrows.

  Having the house to themselves again meant the girls could talk in private. Every time Ashleigh thought about her dilemma, she broke out in a cold sweat.

  “Hi Ashleigh,” Simone said as she joined her in the kitchen. “Pour me a coffee would you please?”

  “Yes, sure.”

  “Have you come down from all that elation yet?”

  “No I haven’t. I feel happier today then yesterday because I know I wasn’t dreaming.”

  “I am so jealous you know, but in a nice way. I wish it had been Neil asking me to marry him.”

  “A joint wedding would be good.”

  “No. I think it should be your day and no one else’s.”

  Ashleigh hesitated before saying what was on her mind.

  “Simone. I need your help on something.”

  “Okay.”

  “What am I going to tell him about my parents?”

  “What do you mean?”

  “He’s asked if they’re coming over from Canada for the wedding.”

  “Why Canada?”

  “Because that’s where I said they’d moved to when we first met. I panicked. It was the first place I could think of. I’ve never told him the truth about the life I had before I met him.”

  Simone pulled a face. “Oh boy. We have ourselves a problem.”

  “I know.”

  “Can’t you just tell him the truth now Ashleigh? He loves you. I’m sure he’ll understand why you’ve kept things from him.”

  “What, after all this time?”

  “Why not?”

  “Because he might hate me, that’s why.”

  “And he might not.”

  “What if I tell him and he doesn’t want to marry me? I couldn’t bear that.”

  “He loves you Ashleigh. He wouldn’t do that.”

  “But it’s such a horrible secret, a secret I’ve kept from him this whole time. I’ve lied to him and his parents for that matter.”

  “Why don’t you tell him that you’ve phoned your parents but they can’t come over because … because they can’t afford.”

  “I’ve already thought of that. All I’d be doing is telling another lie. Knowing my luck, Jack and Madeline would probably step in, offering to pay for their flights.”

  “Good point. Let’s have another coffee,” Simone said. “I can think better with caffeine in my system.” Ashleigh looked deep in thought as she poured more coffee; Simone thinking of a way out. Clapping her hands with excitement, making Ashleigh jump out of her skin, Simone smiled. “I’ve got the perfect solution Ashleigh.”

  “What? Tell me.”

  “Why don’t you ask the couple from the café where you worked, to pretend to be your mum and dad?”

  “Simone, that’s absurd.”

  “Why is it?”

  “Because firstly, they’d have to agree and secondly it’s deceitful.”

  “Well I think it’s the best option you’ve got, apart from telling Finn the truth that is.”

  “If I’d have known we’d eventually be getting married, I’d have faced the music on that very first date.”

  “But you didn’t and so here we are. I’d ask them. You’ve nothing to lose.”

  Pondering on Simone’s idea for most of the morning, it became evident the plan could actually work. Reece and Sam probably knew everything anyway about her parents, thanks to the gossips, certain they’d understand her dilemma.

  “I think I’ll go and see Sam and Reece later and ask them. Would you like to come Simone?”

  “I can’t, I’m working.”

  “Shame. Thanks for helping me with this mess.”

  “That’s alright. I honestly can’t think of anything else you could possibly do.”

  “I feel really awful about what I’m doing because I love Finn so much. My parent’s lives are just too horrendous to share with anyone, even my husband to be. Please don’t think badly of me Simone.”

  “Oh Ashleigh I don’t, I promise. I just wish you didn’t have this hanging over you. Anyway, go and ask Reece and Sam. See what they say. They really care for you. I’m sure they’ll help.”

  The bus into town didn’t take long. Ashleigh had a stomach filled with dread as she opened the door to the cafe, hearing the familiar jingle of the bell. Although sick to the stomach, Ashleigh had made up her mind to ask Reece and Sam straight away.

  “Ashleigh hello,” Sam said from behind the counter as soon as she laid eyes on her.

  “Hello Sam. Is Reece about?”

  “Yes he’s in the back. Do you want me to get him?”

  “Please. I could do with seeing you both really.”

  Noticing the worried look on Ashleigh’s face made her think something terrible had happened.

  “Find a table. We’ll be right over. Do you want a drink?”

  “Only if you let me pay for it.”

  “Get away with you. You’re practically family to us.”

  That last statement sounded like an omen. Maybe they would go with her plan. Reece came from the back wiping his hands on a towel. With the closed sign on the door, they took their seats next to Ashleigh.

  “Good to see you Ashleigh,” Reece began. “How’s things?”

  “Well, I’ve been working as a temp but I start a new job next week as a personnel assistant for a Finance Company.

  “Wow love, well done,” Sam said, giving an approved glance at Reece.

  “All the best for that love,” Reece added.

  “So? What brings you here?” Sam went on. Her tone to Ashleigh always sounded motherly, helping to dissolve the nerves.

  “This is so difficult. I really don’t know where to begin.”

  “It’s okay love, in your own time,” comforted Sam.

  “I’m getting married at Christmas.” There was a surprised look on both their faces.

  “Congratulations. Who’s the lucky lad?” Reece asked.

  “He’s called Finn Watson, he’s just turned twenty five, and works as an accountant for his father. It’ll be Finn who I’ll be working with as his P.A.”

  “That’s really excellent news. You’ll be made for life working in that type of environment,” Reece said approvingly.

  “This is where it gets tricky.” Ashleigh gave a deep sigh before proceeding. “I met Finn nearly a year ago through my good friend Simone. We got on well but I didn’t know things would get this far. I never found the courage to tell him about my mum and dad.” Reece and Sam gave each other a swift glance.

  Sam took hold of her hand. “I think anyone would have done the same thing if they’d have been in your position.”

  “The thing is, we’re getting married soon and he thinks my parents live in Canada. He’s asked if they will be coming over.”

  “So where do we fit into all of this?” asked Reece.

  Knowing there was no easy way to say this, Ashleigh took the bull by the horns and came straight out with it. “Would you be my parents please just for the day?”

  Ashleigh wasn’t sure if the silence which followed was a good thing or not. It took several moments before Reece eventually spoke.

  “Have you thought this through properly love? It’s not really for just one day though is it? I mean, what do you do for the rest of your married life?”

  Ashleigh now felt close to tears, suddenly finding it hard to speak.

  “You’re right. You must think I’m really silly to come up with an idea like this.”

  Sam knew how hard this was for her, having heard the many stories about what and who her parents were. They’d never really discussed anything about it with Ashleigh though, feeling she’d had enough torment in her life. Ashleigh had been the victim, suffering because of Lee and Linda. They’d failed her as parents when she’d been growing up. It was Sam who spoke next.

  “Actually Reece, I really do think this could work
.”

  “You do?”

  “Listen Ashleigh,” she began. “I won’t pretend I don’t know what happened to your mum and dad and that is no fault of yours. You’ve made something of your life and you should feel proud of who you are. It’d be an honour for me if you looked upon me as being your mum and we could make it an official thing. I think you might be too old for us to adopt you legally but we could be your guardians if you’d like us to be.” Reece looked at Sam and heard what she was saying.

  “I would also feel proud Ashleigh to walk you down the aisle as your father.” Ashleigh was in tears as she thanked them from the bottom of her heart.

  “You are such good people. I would be privileged for you to be my guardians.”

  “So, when do we get to meet out future son-in-law?” asked Sam.

  Ashleigh laughed with relief as she wiped tears from her eyes.

  “Would you like to come round for dinner one evening? We could say in two to three weeks, that way we could pretend you’ve come back from Canada to stay for a few months, maybe until after the wedding.”

  “I’ve got an even better idea,” Sam began excitedly, seeming as though she was really enjoying helping Ashleigh. “Why don’t we say we are coming back from Canada permanently so we can be near you, now you’re getting married? We could even say we were thinking of buying a business over here, that way, if Finn should happen to come in here on his lunch break, he won’t have a heart attack if he sees us here. Just keep him away from here until then.”

  “That is a brilliant idea Sam, thank you,” Ashleigh said giving her a huge hug.

  “Can we start to do the mother and daughter thing soon so we can start to look at dresses?” Sam asked.

  “Of course. I’ve already told my best friend Simone she can help me choose.”