A Simple Mistake

by Andrea Grigg

  ‘What?’

  ‘Well, you know how people do silly things when they’re teenagers.’

  ‘I can’t believe you have a tattoo. Where is it?’

  ‘Right across my stomach. It says ‘Roger was right’. Then I tried to have it removed and I have the most dreadful scarring—’

  ‘You rat. That’s it. You’re gone.’ Nick yanked her to her feet.

  She was laughing so hard she had no resistance whatsoever. He scooped her up and ran, dodging sunbathers and endangering the lives of small children playing at the water’s edge, before depositing her in the surf.

  Lainey spluttered and choked as she wiped the hair out of her eyes. Smiling, she got to her feet, and let him drag her with him into an oncoming wave.

  As they surfaced, Nick grinned and put an arm around her shoulders. ‘I’ve missed this,’ he said – and put her in a headlock.

  She tried to fight him off by pulling the hairs on his legs, laughing when he yelped. She was sixteen again.

  ‘Miss Sullivan! Hey! Miss Sullivan!’

  Nick released her and she spun around to find two of the boys in her class waving at her from a few metres away.

  ‘Hey, Mitch, Ben. How’re you doing?’

  ‘Good!’ They were looking from her to Nick with great interest but she didn’t think they knew who he was. Seeing their teacher in her swimmers, let alone with a man, was enough to put them into shock.

  ‘Have fun, boys. See you Monday.’ She gave a little wave and they took off back into the surf.

  ‘If I was in your class, I’d definitely have a crush on you.’

  ‘See? That’s why I don’t wear a bikini. You’d never look at your teacher the same way again.’

  ‘You’re telling me. Come on. I’ll buy you an ice cream.’

  They picked their way over the hot sand up to the shops, and ate their ice creams standing in the shade of the pavilion. It was a beautiful summer’s day. The beach was covered with people and their brightly coloured paraphernalia.

  Lainey told Nick about her ‘Where’s Wally?’ theory and he laughed. ‘That’s what I figured. They’d have to be clever to find me today.’ No sooner had he spoken than he groaned. ‘Great. We jinxed ourselves. I’ll meet you back at our spot. Keep your head down and go.’

  She did as she was told, tugging her hat lower, glad she’d grabbed her sarong before leaving the beach. The last thing she wanted was to have her photo appear in a magazine. It was an issue she might have to deal with later, but not yet.

  ‘Where’s Nick?’ Lara sat on her towel, taking a turn at minding everyone’s gear.

  ‘He spotted some paparazzi and sent me back.’

  ‘Yeah, you often see those shots in magazines, don’t you? A ‘who’s who’ at the beach.’ She wrinkled her nose. ‘This is so strange. Did you get away in time?’

  ‘I think so. I didn’t actually see them, Nick did. I guess he’s got a sixth sense about it by now. He’ll be back when he can.’ It had been a sharp dose of reality.

  It wasn’t too long until he dropped back down beside her. ‘Sorry about that. Are you okay?’

  ‘I’m fine, but do you mind if we get going? I’ve got schoolwork to do. Sarah can get a ride with you, can’t she, Lara?’

  ‘Sure. We’re coming soon anyhow.’

  ‘You go first, Lainey. I’ll meet you at the car, just in case.’

  She nodded, glad he was being careful.

  Lainey waited only a few minutes before Nick slid into the passenger seat. He wore his cap backwards, making him look very young except for the three-day growth, and she couldn’t help but smile. ‘All good?’

  ‘All good.’ He waited until she’d got out of the beach traffic before he spoke again. ‘I want to explain something.’

  ‘Go ahead.’

  ‘When I sent you away, I hope I didn’t give you the wrong impression. It’s just that I’m used to being photographed and you’re not, and I’m not sure if you’re ready for it. That’s if you ever want to be ready for it, if you know what I mean.’

  ‘I know what you mean and I appreciate it.’ She decided to make light of it. ‘So today wouldn’t have been a good day for a walk along the beach holding your hand?’

  ‘Not if you didn’t want to be the mystery girl in the tabloids.’

  ‘So Bondi is free from rules? The hand-holding ones, I mean?’

  ‘Definitely. But they apply when we’re at the movies tonight.’

  ‘What movies?’

  ‘Lara’s organised for the four of us to go to the movies.’

  Lainey frowned. ‘What do you mean she’s ‘organised’ it? Did you want to go or did you feel you had to because she’s organised it?’

  ‘Lainey, what’s wrong?’ Nick looked puzzled. ‘I’m an adult and make my own choices. Of course I wanted to go.’

  ‘I would like to be asked, that’s all, not herded into it.’

  He looked at her sideways. ‘What are you saying?’

  ‘Oh, I don’t know, just forget it.’ She knew she sounded cross and felt bad. ‘Actually, no. I’ll tell you. Sarah organised you to come today and Lara’s organised tonight – if you want to see me it would be nice if you did the organising yourself.’ She was heartily sick of the word.

  ‘I’d almost forgotten how prickly you can be.’

  When she glanced at Nick, he was leaning against the car door, studying her with an amused expression, not the least bit annoyed. He was so nice.

  Lainey sighed. ‘I’m sorry. You’ve rocked my world, Nick. I have no idea where this is all going and I’m a bit freaked out.’

  ‘You’ve sent me into a spin too but can we at least try to enjoy the ride?’

  ‘It’s not exactly a chore.’ Lainey pulled up at the top of his driveway and looked at him. ‘You’re alright for a celebrity, you know. Not a tantrum in sight.’

  He leaned over and kissed her cheek. ‘I’ll see you soon. And don’t be too sure about the tantrum.’

  Lainey smiled as she drove away, touching her face where he’d kissed her. Despite her confusion she was looking forward to tonight. All she wanted was for Nick to ask her himself, not go along with everyone else’s plans. Silly, maybe, but it was how she felt.

  After a shower, Lainey propped herself up on her bed and tried to do some work. It was hopeless. Worn out by the sun and distracted by thoughts of Nick, she fell asleep and dreamed of being chased by paparazzi. They were covered in tattoos of Roger’s disapproving face, all wanting to take photographs of her ice cream. Except, when she looked again, it wasn’t an ice cream she was holding, it was a baby.

  * * *

  After the movie, when she was saying goodnight to him, Nick gave her a wary look.

  ‘I didn’t want to tell you until now, but I’m coming with you tomorrow to your parents’ place. Actually, you’re coming with me. I’m driving.’

  ‘I see.’ Lainey’s lips twitched. ‘I presume Sarah organised this little outing too?’ That stupid word again.

  ‘She did. And you know what? I want to come. I’d like to see your mother and I’m quite curious as to what Roger might have to say about us meeting up again. I’m sure he’ll let me know what he thinks.’

  ‘No doubt. And did you think that it would be a good idea for me to give them a bit of warning?’

  ‘Apparently, Sarah already has.’

  ‘Oh, is that right?’ Lainey folded her arms across her chest. ‘And neither of you decided to tell me. Thanks a lot.’

  ‘This is exactly why I didn’t tell you earlier.’ Nick raked his hand through his hair. ‘Sarah was keen for me to catch up with your Mum and Roger; it’s as simple as that. She doesn’t remember the problems we had with them and I thought it would be an ideal opportunity for me to see them, break the ice so to speak, because I intend seeing them again no
w that you and I are … doing whatever it is we’re doing. Getting to know one another again.’

  Lainey thought she detected a slight note of sarcasm but ignored it. ‘What time are you picking us up?’

  ‘Around eleven.’

  ‘Fine then. I’ll see you in the morning.’ Lainey turned and walked up the path. ‘Thanks for the movie. I had a nice time.’ She flung the words over her shoulder, stalked past Adam kissing Lara goodnight in the entry and pushed open the door to find Kate cuddling up to Brian in the lounge room.

  For crying out loud. Was everyone in the whole world paired up?

  She marched into the bathroom and began taking off her make-up. That was when she stopped, took a breath and owned up to what was making her upset.

  She hadn’t rung her mother and told her about Nick.

  It had been a week and now that someone had done it for her, she felt guilty and annoyed for putting it off. Nick had told her how Hannah had been thrilled about them meeting up; she should’ve rung her mum too.

  She made the call as soon as she awoke.

  Rose answered on the second ring. ‘Hello, honey. I thought it would be you.’

  How did she do that? Did all mothers have instincts when it came to their daughters and guilt trips?

  ‘Mum, I should’ve rung you before and let you know about Nick. I’m sorry Sarah was the one to tell you everything. It should’ve been me.’

  ‘It would’ve been better, Lainey, but I understand. You must’ve had quite a shock.’

  Why hadn’t she rung her mother straight away? She always made her feel better. ‘Mum, I don’t know what to do. The whole thing scares me.’

  Rose was silent for a moment. ‘Have you told Nick about the baby?’

  ‘No, I haven’t. I don’t know how.’

  ‘Pray, Lainey. God will show you when it’s the right time.’

  ‘I have been. A lot. Mum?’

  ‘Yes?’

  ‘I think Nick still likes me.’ Saying the words out loud made it more real and the familiar zinging sensation shot through her stomach.

  ‘How do you feel about him?’

  ‘He’s wonderful, Mum.’ It was impossible to hide her happiness. ‘He’s amazing.’

  There was a pause, then, ‘Be very careful, honey. Sarah told me about the letters, but even so, Nick’s not the same guy you grew up with. You’ve seen enough to know that.’

  ‘Yeah, but we’ve talked and talked, Mum, and he’s nothing like the playboy the media make him out to be. And when we discovered why I never got all his letters, it was … wow… it was an incredible moment. Plus, he told me he still believes in God and I know he needs to do more than just that, but … well, that’s why I’m trying so hard to be careful.’ Lainey swapped the phone to her other hand and flexed her fingers.

  ‘You know what the Bible says about those kinds of relationships, Lainey.’

  ‘Yes, but it’s not that simple.’

  ‘It never is, but God’s word is there to guide us, regardless of how we feel.’

  ‘I know.’ Lainey sighed. ‘What did Roger say?’

  ‘He’s concerned, like me.’ Her mother’s serious tone lightened. ‘It will be good to see Nick today, Lainey. He was such a dear little boy, and he has a special place in my heart even after everything else.’

  ‘Yes, well, your dear little boy is now six feet five and will probably have trouble fitting his knees under the dining table.’

  Rose laughed. ‘I’ll see you when you get here. And Lainey, try not to worry. Trust in the Lord and the rest will fall into place.’

  ‘Thanks, Mum. I’ll try. See you soon.’

  Lainey felt better. Now she could enjoy church and she would apologise to Nick.

  She hadn’t been home long when a black four-wheel drive with tinted windows pulled up. Lainey watched from her bedroom window as Nick headed up the path. She hoped she hadn’t blown it, almost losing her temper last night. Her emotions were all over the place.

  ‘Good morning. Nice to see you.’

  Nice face, nice hair, nice smile. Did you know we have a son?

  ‘Nice to see you, too.’ Nick’s eyes were much warmer than she deserved. ‘Are you okay with today?’

  Lainey nodded. ‘Mum’s looking forward to seeing you very much. I’m sorry about last night. I was rude.’

  ‘That’s okay. What you said was fair enough.’ He brushed her cheek with his finger. ‘Can I take you to dinner tonight when we get back? Just you and me.’

  ‘I’d really like that.’ For a heart-stopping moment Lainey thought Nick was going to kiss her as he leaned in, but he was only reaching for the door.

  Flustered, she climbed the stairs to Sarah’s flat and realised she hadn’t thought twice about missing the evening service. Dinner with Nick had wiped out her routine in one fell swoop. Should that worry her?

  Seeing as it was her birthday weekend, Sarah insisted on sitting in the front. Lainey didn’t object. She had the evening to look forward to.

  They made good time out to Kurrajong. Lainey watched Nick’s well-shaped hands with their long fingers curled around the steering wheel and remembered how they had felt interlocked with hers during last night’s movie. He’d waited until she’d finished her popcorn before whispering a reminder about the rules. It had been an action film but she didn’t remember much about it. She had been too distracted by Nick’s thumb rubbing the backs of her knuckles.

  Your son has a bent little finger just like yours.

  Her stomach clenched. How was she going to tell him? Right now, though, she was more anxious over the reunion with Roger.

  Lainey caught Nick’s eye in the mirror. He winked and her heart skipped.

  Roger could think whatever he liked.

  Chapter Six

  After they’d returned from Kurrajong, Nick took Lainey to a restaurant in Coogee. It was busy but they were given a booth down the back where they could have more privacy.

  His steak was excellent and so was Lainey’s company. A lot of women seemed to put on an act for his benefit which he found annoying. Not Lainey. She was happy being herself, not trying to be someone she wasn’t. He could sit and listen to her forever.

  She beamed at him over her dinner. ‘I still can’t get over how easy this afternoon was. It wasn’t the least bit awkward.’

  It had gone a lot easier than he’d expected too. Roger had been quite welcoming, in his gruff sort of way. They’d been careful not to say too much on the drive home, not in front of Sarah.

  ‘People change, Lainey. Even Roger.’

  ‘Either that, or Mum threatened him with something.’

  Nick grinned. ‘Like what? Refusing to iron his newspaper? No gravy for his roast beef? Or perhaps he’s accepted the fact we’re both adults and can make our own choices with or without his approval.’

  Lainey shifted on her seat. ‘Maybe. I think Mum’s been good for him more than anything, helped him to mellow out. He isn’t as blunt as he used to be.’

  ‘Your Mum would be a good influence on anybody.’ He pushed back his plate. ‘Did you remember I’ve got a trip to the States coming up soon?’

  ‘I hadn’t forgotten. How long are you going to be away?’ Lainey propped her chin in her hands.

  ‘A fortnight. I leave Wednesday week. I’m meeting with my American agent to discuss some movie scripts I’ve been offered plus I’ve got a film premiere to attend.’

  ‘Is that for the last movie you did?’

  He nodded. ‘Against All Odds. They’ll choose some up and coming actress I’ve never met to accompany me on the red carpet, just for publicity.’

  Lainey smiled. ‘I’m sure you’ll make the best of it.’

  ‘Yeah, it’ll be alright.’ He wanted to tell her he’d rather have her by his side but it was too soon for statements lik
e that. ‘James and Mia get back from their honeymoon this week. Would you like to come with me and meet them properly? They’re having a barbecue at their place on Saturday night.’

  Lainey nodded and toyed with the edge of her serviette. ‘I’m a bit nervous about meeting your friends.’

  ‘I’ll look after you, I promise.’ Her shyness touched him. The girls he met tended to be over confident and far less honest. He also suspected, despite the fact Lainey was almost twenty-seven, she had led a sheltered life, especially amongst church people. ‘It’ll be low key, with Mia and James’s families, not a full on party. You’ll get on well with Mia’s brother-in-law. He’s a teacher too.’ He waited while the waitress brought their desserts. ‘Also, I want you to keep next Tuesday night free.’

  ‘But that’s my home group night.’

  ‘It’s Valentine’s Day. Would it be okay if you missed it for once?’

  ‘Oh!’ Lainey stared at her mud cake and then smiled. ‘I guess once would be fine, considering the occasion.’

  ‘It’s also the night before I go away.’

  ‘True.’ She pulled a face.

  ‘And don’t try to guess where we’re going on Tuesday night. It’ll be a surprise.’

  ‘Ha.’ Lainey narrowed her eyes. ‘That’s because you haven’t worked it out yet.’

  ‘Wrong, Miss Sullivan, quite wrong. I have it all planned.’ He was very pleased with himself. He’d gone all out and it would be interesting to see where it got him. She’d have to give him full marks for trying.

  After their meal, when he took Lainey home, he didn’t touch her except for a kiss on the cheek. If she needed space, she could have it.

  * * *

  Adam beat him at tennis, but not by much, and they agreed to play again when he got back from the States.

  Nick learned Adam had been a believer for two years and had been through a lot to get to that point. Nick was curious. Adam seemed like he had it all together. Why did he feel the need for God to play such a big part in his life?

  On Friday, Nick caught up with James and Mia. They had honeymooned in the Maldives and were glowing as only honeymooners could. They were also curious to know what had happened after the wedding and listened open-mouthed when Nick told them about the letters. They knew all about Lainey.