by Karen King
Ellie’s social media onslaught had worked and she was pleased to see quite a few queries on the Gwel Teg Facebook page, a handful of emails, and a few Pinterest board shares. She replied to the Facebook queries first, knowing that a quick response rate gave them a better ranking, then moved onto the emails. She’d just finished replying to them all when her mother came into the foyer.
“Let me take over, Ellie. You go and have a break,” Sue said opening the hatch and stepping behind the desk.
Ellie quickly assessed her. She had more colour in her cheeks now and seemed quite sprightly. Maybe she’d be glad of something to do. She knew how her mum liked to be kept busy. “Are you sure?” she asked. “I don’t mind waiting until Mandy comes on duty.” She glanced at her watch. “It’s only another hour.”
“No really. I’m bored out of my mind.” She frowned as she took in the computer screen. “What are you doing?”
“I’ve updated the Facebook page and it’s generated a lot of enquiries,” Ellie told her proudly. “We’ve at least another two potential bookings.”
“Facebook? Oh I can’t be bothered with that, Ellie. It’s so time consuming and surely no one bothers with it. If they want to know anything they’ll phone or email.”
“Social networking’s important, Mum. People expect all businesses to have an up to date Facebook site now. I can show you how to manage it so it doesn’t take up too much time. And Mandy will help too.”
She could see her mother looked flustered. She was fine with basic computing but hated learning anything new. “Honestly, you’ll pick it up in no time,” Ellie assured her.
“You look busy?” Reece’s voice sent goosebumps down her spine as she remembered their night together. She swivelled around and greeted him with a smile. “I am. The Facebook page has generated a lot of interest. We’ve had lots of enquiries and comments.”
“What did we do without Social Media?” Reece leant towards her and kissed her on the cheek. Then he smiled at her mother. “How are you today, Mrs Truman? You look like you’ve got a bit more colour in your cheeks. There’s nothing like being in your own home to make you feel better, is there?”
“I am feeling stronger, thank you. Let me take over for a while Ellie. Mandy will be here soon. Go and have a coffee. You’ve done so much here, I don’t want you falling ill too.”
“I’m fine, Mum, but if you’re sure I will go for a coffee break.” Ellie agreed, knowing that it would pick Sue up a bit if she felt she could still be useful around the hotel.
“Fancy joining me for lunch later?” Reece asked. “I noticed a quaint little café on the harbour front. I wouldn’t mind having a coffee and sandwich there.”
“Sure.” She hoped she sounded natural because she certainly didn’t feel it. All she could think of was last night. Was he remembering it to? The way they’d kissed, torn off each other’s clothes, made love so wildly.
Was he thinking, like her, that he didn’t want to say goodbye?
Chapter Eighteen
“So no regrets about last night?” Reece asked as they sat facing the harbour with their coffees and ham salad sandwiches.
Boy did he believe in getting straight to the point. Did that mean he had regrets? He certainly hadn’t this morning, she thought, remembering how he’d tried to entice her back into bed. She shook her head, her eyes fixed on his. “How about you?”
“Absolutely not. It was an amazing night.” He leaned over and kissed her on the cheek. “Besides, I don’t believe in regrets.”
“Really?” She tilted her head to one side questioningly. “You’ve never done anything you regret?”
Reece leaned back, elbows on the arm of the chair, fingers loosely linked. “No, I make a decision and that’s it. If things work out different to how I expected I just move on. I don’t see the point of chewing over things. You do what you do and have to take the consequences.”
He sounded remarkably in control and confident. Maybe too much in control? “And is that what you do in your personal life too? Move on when things get difficult?”
His gaze flicked lazily over her face, resting on her lips for a few seconds as if he was remembering how he’d kissed them last night. Well if he wasn’t remembering she certainly was. “I move on before things get difficult. Don’t you?” His eyes were suddenly sharp, probing. “I thought your motto was ‘footless and fancy free’ too?”
So last night hadn’t had the same effect on him as it had on her. For a brief moment she felt a stab of disappointment but she quickly shook it off. That was a good thing. This was a holiday romance and that was the way she wanted it to stay. Okay, so sex with Reece was so flaming hot it went right off the Richter Scale, but that didn’t mean she wanted to get all clingy and couply. Reece’s words were just what she needed to make herself get a grip. “It sure is. Just checking we’re on the same page,” she said nonchalantly. “How did your business meeting go this morning?”
“Good. We’re almost wrapped up,” He nodded but didn’t enlarge any further.
Ellie frowned. He wasn’t very forthcoming about his work. But then why should he be? Three more days and they’d be parting company, she didn’t need to know all his business. Even so…
“What made you change your plans? Did something come up you weren’t expecting?” It would be flattering to believe that he extended his stay because he was mad about her but she suspected it was purely business. Reece looked like the kind of guy who would put business first each and every time. That’s not fair. She reminded herself of how much he’d helped her, without asking for any payment.
He studied her, his expression giving nothing away. “What do you mean?”
“You originally only booked in for one day, and then decided to stay for an extra week. So I’m guessing the ‘business’ was a bit more complicated than you thought.”
He shrugged. “Let’s just say it took an unexpected turn but that’s not a bad thing. It’s all working out well.”
Sensing he didn’t want to say anymore, Ellie changed the subject. “I was wondering if we could let Mum have a look at those carpets this afternoon? It would be good if we could arrange for them to be delivered after I’ve painted the ceiling next week.
“Yes that’ll be no problem. I’ll bring my laptop down into the lounge if you like and we can take a look at some carpets there?”
“That would be great. I’ll tell Mum as soon as we’ve finished lunch.” She took a bite of her ham sandwich.
They chatted easily as they ate, then held hands and walked along the harbour front for a while. Ellie snapped a few shots with her phone.
“I want to put these on the Facebook and Pinterest pages,” she said. “Photos are a good way to generate interest.”
“You’re really serious about this aren’t you?”
“I am. I’m going to get Gwel Teg back on its feet again if it takes me the rest of this year.” She glanced at the time on her phone screen. “I ought to be getting back. I don’t want to leave Mum too long. She’s still very weak.”
“I think I’ll hang around for a bit longer,” Reece replied. “I’ll see you in an hour or so.” He snaked an arm around her waist and pulled her to him. Then they kissed. A long, lingering kiss that made her want more.
When she returned to the hotel, Ellie’s mother was talking animatedly to Mandy. She looked much brighter, her eyes were almost sparkling and there were two pink blotches on her cheeks.
“Mandy’s shown me how to update the Facebook page,” Sue said. “It’s not difficult at all. We think we might even start an Instagram page next. Mandy said it’s easy, all you have to do is post photos. I could take photos of the hotel, the rooms, the beach, show people how lovely Port Medden is. What do you think?”
That’s exactly what I’ve been trying to tell you! Ellie smiled. It was good to see Mum so elated. “It’s a great idea, Mum. I’ve just taken some photos of the harbour so I’ll post those in a little while.”
“We’ve
had another booking too. A young woman, she’s coming to stay tomorrow for a few days. Things are definitely looking up.” Her mother’s smile was suddenly replaced by a look of pain as she started coughing again. Ellie grabbed a cushion off the sofa and passed it to her, knowing that hugging the cushion to her chest helped deaden the pain. “Bother this cough!” Sue gasped when it had finally stopped.
“What you need is one of my special drinks,” Mandy told her. “I’ve brought the stuff to make it with me. You hold the fort here for a few minutes while I go and do it. She picked up her bright red patent handbag and tottered off to the staff kitchen.
“What would we do without, Mandy,” Sue said, the corners of her lips lifted up into a smile. “I do feel bad though, she’s worked so much unpaid overtime just lately. At least she’s had you to help her this week. And I’m sure I’ll be a lot better by the time you go home. Between us we’ll manage.”
Ellie suddenly remembered Mandy’s idea of her niece helping out for a week as work experience. “You won’t need to for the first week,” she said, explaining about Sara. “What do you think? It sounds like a good idea to me?”
“Oh yes, I’ve met Sara she’s a lovely girl. She’ll be a big help. And if we keep getting the bookings coming in we might be able to afford to take someone else on.”
Mandy was making her way back, holding a mug of steaming liquid.
“What’s in that?” Ellie asked. She could smell herbs and something else, something she couldn’t quite put her finger on.
“It’s herbs, honey, blackcurrant and a touch of brandy,” Mandy told her. She placed the mug down on the counter. “There you are, sip it slowly, mind. It’s hot.”
“Brandy? Are you trying to get me drunk and so early in the day?” Mum said in mock-horror.
“It’s only a teensy bit. I’ll make you another one before I go home. That’ll help you sleep tonight.”
“Knock me out more like,” Mum retorted. She picked up the mug and took a sip then pulled a face. “My goodness, that’s strong!”
“Get it down you, lovey. It’ll do that cough the world of good,” Mandy told her. She walked behind the counter. “Now be off with you, this is my shift. Go and put your feet up.”
“You know, I sometimes wonder who’s the boss here,” Mum told Ellie but she picked up her mug and walked around the Reception desk.
Reece returned a little later. “Do you think your mother would like to take a look at some carpet samples now?” he asked Ellie after greeting her warmly with a kiss, his eyes twinkling a promise of more to come later. “If I order them today I can arrange for them to be delivered, and fitted, next week.
“What do you think, Mum?” Ellie turned to her mother who had now returned, saying she couldn’t bear sitting around doing nothing.
“Yes, thank you.” Mum shot him a grateful look. “We could do with more guests like you.”
Reece glanced at Ellie, a smile curving his lips. “I hope I’m a bit more than a guest.” He turned his attention back to Sue. “Shall we sit over there?” He nodded towards the sofa in the corner of the reception, “or do you prefer to go somewhere more private?”
“This will be fine. We’re unlikely to be disturbed but will be on hand if Mandy needs us.” Mum walked, a little unsteadily over to the sofa and sat down in the middle of the two cushions.
She’s still weak, but she does look a lot better, Ellie thought in relief.
Ellie and Reece sat down either side of Sue, then Reece opened his laptop and logged on. A few clicks on the touchpad and he was on the site they’d looked at the other night.
“This is impressive,” Mum said. “Is it a website especially for hotels? Can I open an account myself and get a discount whenever I want to order anything?”
“You have to be part of a large hotel group I’m afraid,” Reece told her. “I’m happy to order anything you need through my account though, so you can get the discount.”
“That’s very good of you. Are you sure it won’t get you into trouble? Won’t your boss wonder who the purchases are for?”
“It won’t be a problem at all” Reece clicked a link and a page showing numerous carpet samples opened. “Take a look at these. Ellie chose a few she thought you might like last night – we’ve saved them –do you want to see those first?”
Sue leaned forward, her eyes resting on the screen as Reece flicked up a section. “It might be interesting to see if we chose the same ones. Now let me see. I like that one.”
“That’s one I chose too,” Ellie said. “It looks classy doesn’t it and would go with any colour scheme.”
After careful consideration her mother chose six she liked, three were ones Ellie had chosen too. They called Mandy over to help them make their final decision.
“That one,” she pointed to a mink and brown patterned carpet. It looks classy.”
“I agree,” Ellie said.
Sue hesitated. “I quite like this beige floral one. Oh goodness, I can’t make up my mind.”
“I think the main thing to consider is whether you want a busy carpet that attracts the eye or one that provides a background to compliment the other features in the room,” Reece said.
Ellie shot him a mischievous glance. “That sounds like salesman spiel. I can see you’re used to this.”
He grinned. “I sometimes advise people yes.” He turned to Sue. “Are you changing the colour scheme of the room at all? Or are you keeping it as a ‘gold and white room?”
“Gold and white, definitely. They’re good colours for a honeymoon suite. And I want the carpet to look classy but not be the main thing you notice when you walk into the room.”
“Then can I suggest something.” Reece flicked back a couple of pages. “This light beige/gold fleck twist would be ideal. It’s easy on the eye, the gold flecks give it a hint of luxury and will complement the rest of the décor.” He looked up. “The idea is to give an ambience of luxury without going over the top. CBS I call it, classy but subtle.”
It was one of the carpets Ellie had chosen. She’d liked it immediately for the same reason but it hadn’t been on her mother’s favourite list.
“It is nice. Plain but nice,” Sue agreed. Ellie sensed she preferred the floral one. Her mother liked flowers and favoured chitzy floral curtains and cushions. But Reece’s choice of a plain twist with a bit of a fleck was classier.
Finally Sue nodded. “You know I think you’re right. I probably need to tone down the florals a bit.” She glanced at Ellie. “I noticed you changed the curtains in the lounge to the pale blue ones. A perfect choice. It changes the whole atmosphere in here.”
“So we’re agreed then.” Reece selected the carpet. “Ellie and I measured the room the other day so we know what size carpet we need.”
Sue glanced over as the price came up. “Goodness that is a big discount. Your firm must place a lot of orders to get that.”
“We do quite a lot of business with them,” Reece told her. “Now let’s take a look at beds.”
For the next half an hour they checked out the beds with Sue finally choosing a luxurious king sized white divan bed with a padded gold headboard.
“I can’t believe how much money you’ve saved me,” she told Reece. “I’ll go and write you a cheque now.”
“There’s no need. I’ll arrange for an invoice to be posted to you, then you can pay by cheque or credit card if you prefer.”
“If you’re sure. Thank you.” Ellie could see that her mum looked relieved. She guessed she was planning on asking her bank manager to extend her overdraft but there was no need. Ellie would talk to her tonight about her plan to have an interest free balance transfer from her credit card. Mum could pay her back when she was on her feet again.
The sound of the bell announcing that someone was coming in made them all look up. A young couple entered, pulling suitcases behind them.
“This must be the couple that booked in earlier. I’ll look after them.” Beaming, Mandy walked ove
r to them. “You must be Sandy Holmes and Nick Carter?”
The woman nodded. “That’s right, we phoned this morning.”
“What a lovely location. You’re right by the beach,” The man added.
“Yes, we have one of the best locations in Port Medden,” Mandy smiled at them. “Do come over to the reception desk and sign in, then I’ll give you your keys.” She looked at the cases. “Do you need any help with your luggage?”
“No, thanks. We’re fine,” the man replied as they followed Mandy to the desk, wheeling the cases besides them.
The cases looked a bit battered, and had quite a few labels dangling from the handle. A well-travelled couple by the look of it. She wondered what had brought them here. Whatever it was she was glad of it. Mandy said they’d booked in for two weeks. That was much needed funds.
“Right, I’ve just had confirmation that both the carpet and bed will be delivered next Tuesday. The carpet will be here first thing, with the fitters arriving a little while later. That way it should be all ready by the time the bed is delivered in the afternoon.” Reece closed down the computer screen. “Now I’ll take this upstairs. I’ve got some work to finish. Perhaps we could meet later, Ellie?”
“Sure. Text me when you’ve finished and I’ll see how I’m fixed,” Ellie told him. “I’ve got a couple of jobs I want to do here.”
Reece leaned over and feather-kissed her on the cheek. Then he smiled at her mother. “See you later Mrs Truman.”
“What a charming man,” Sue said as Reece walked away. “I can see why you trusted him so readily, Ellie.”
Reece was really nice, Ellie thought. What a shame he was going home on Saturday. She was going to miss him. A lot.
Chapter Nineteen
“So you’re not mad at me any more for telling him our business?” Ellie teased.
“I wasn’t cross...” a bout of coughing interrupted Sue’s flow. “Not really,” she continued when it had subsided – and a lot quicker this time Ellie noticed – “I was embarrassed. I don’t like people to know how I’ve let things go. I’ve let your father down.” Her voice wobbled a little.