by Unknown
She had talked herself into accepting Graham’s proposal and had been finally ready to commit herself to married life and all that it entailed. Graham’s double life had ruined all her hopes. Vitoria had invested herself in a relationship that had once again gone pear shaped. Was her love life cursed? She had no desire to go through all that pain again. Could she trust another man’s feelings for her after Graham’s duplicity? No, said her mind. Her heart, on the other hand, offered a timid, ‘if only’. And with those silent words Luke’s handsome face swam clearly into view.
Chapter Two
Books Right Here had started out as a pet project. But as the tourist industry boomed, Luke saw the potential of growing the business. In order to do this successfully, he needed a fulltime manager who would take care of the day-to-day running of the business. He wanted to devote more time to being a freelance book editor.
The first week went by in a blur and the bookshop quickly became a happy place for Vitoria. The two part-time sales assistants, Sharon and Giles, were young, enthusiastic and full of boundless energy. Their constant chatter distracted her from thinking too much about Graham, her ruined wedding day, and the fact that she was a fraud. Her insatiable love for reading enabled her to assist the more unique requests of customers. Vitoria read widely and was knowledgeable on a range of subject matter, but more specifically, architecture.
It was easy for Vitoria to fall into a routine quickly. She also surprised herself by adjusting too easily to being called Julie. At first, Luke would look at her strangely when she hadn’t responded as expected when he addressed her. But after the first few times of near misses, she made a conscientious effort to be more mindful when being addressed by the unknown woman’s name.
Vitoria found Luke to be an easy boss, a fact that did not find surprising. With his inspiring manner of leadership Sharon and Giles were motivated to offer their best. Customers fed off the comfortable atmosphere, the staff famed for providing an excellent attention to personalized service. The result was a constant flow of promising traffic into the shop.
It was a happy coincidence that the section on architecture was housed in a quiet corner that looked out onto the town’s center. The tall windows received a generous amount of sunlight that made for a pleasant reading nook. Vitoria was particularly delighted at the comprehensive section on the history of architecture. She saw that Luke stocked an excellent range on the subject and she bought a few books that were on her booksto-find list. Giles had thoughtfully placed an armchair there for her, creating a cozy retreat to take advantage of in quieter moments. It was here that Luke found her one late afternoon, cocooned in the chair and with a book on stately European homes on her lap.
“Thought I’d find you here,” Luke smiled down at her. “What’s inspired this unusual love for construction?” he said indicating the book on her lap.
Vitoria cringed inwardly. She could not tell Luke the whole truth that she was an architect by profession. Omitting that fact, she told him about her childhood and her father who first introduced her to architecture. This at least was the truth she was happy to share.
“It started about the time I was five years old. Sunday afternoons became my favorite time. I would look forward to when my dad would place me on his knee and we would browse through books on grand houses, castles and heritage buildings across the globe together. We would make up stories about the people who lived in those beautiful homes. My dad was a history teacher but his first love was architecture, especially Victorian architecture. He passed this passion for the gothic structure of buildings down to me I suppose. His own love started a lifelong passion in me.” Vitoria looked away out the window to get herself together. She always got emotional when talking about her father.
“When I was older, he took me on trips to Europe to see these iconic buildings in person. We would choose one of the historic buildings on the itinerary and my dad would choose a unique perspective from which to view the building.”
Vitoria found herself back in time, as a young girl happy to share priceless moments with her father. She did not register Luke seating himself down beside her.
“Armed with drawing pads and pencils, we would sketch parts of the building, interesting details presented by the unique perspective, whether they were ornate windows or elaborate pillars or towering spires. The architectural legacy of London made it my favorite place, the Palace of Westminster with Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, particular favorites.”
She was lost in the memory for a moment.
“They found each other there, my parents. Both were on vacation in London. My mom was part of a tour group and my dad visiting a cousin. One day both found themselves outside the Palace of Westminster. My mom had her purse snatched; my dad ran after the thief and recovered it for her. And this began a lifelong love. Sorry,” she said after a pause slightly embarrassed at all the memories she had voiced out loud, “Once you get me started on architecture …”
“That’s quite alright,” said Luke warmly. “You know, it’s the first time you have shared anything remotely personal about yourself with me. I’m very glad you did. I find you an intriguing mystery, Julie Fletcher.”
Vitoria felt her cheeks heat up at those words and his intense gaze upon her. This was dangerous territory.
“I’ve been thinking,” she said attempting to detract the conversation away to more neutral ground and away from any talk of her, “about how to attract more business to the shop.”
“Okay,” sighed Luke noticing her blatant attempt at turning the conversation around, “I see that’s all I’m going to get out of you for now.” He gave her a wink.
“What is this idea of yours?” he asked in a more businessman-like voice.
“A coffee shop.”
“A coffee shop?”
“That’s right. You have the space for it. A bookshop and coffee shop combined is a novel way to draw in more business.”
When he remained silent she grew more confident in her idea. “You could host book club meetings. Books, coffee and pastries make for a lethal combination.” Vitoria’s eyes lit up with excitement as she thought more on the idea. Luke laughed.
Vitoria thought he was impossibly handsome when he laughed. “Hang on. Before you go breaking down walls, let me think more on this sudden idea of yours. On paper it sounds good, but I’ll have to consider the practical implications involved.”
Vitoria had mentioned the coffee shop idea to throw him off pursuing any more personal talk about herself. Her plan had worked for the time being. She had not counted on him considering it. Part of her was pleased that he respected her ideas enough to give them serious thought. She agreed with him, it was a good idea.
It was not long after, buoyed by the coffee shop idea, Luke had roped her in on sampling food he planned on serving customers. Initially, he admitted to her, he had had his reservations. The more Vitoria talked him through what was involved in a way he could relate, he grew enthusiastic about the project. They spent almost every afternoon together indulging in delectable food and easy conversation. Luke was easy to be with and Vitoria found herself thoroughly enjoying his company. But she forced her current predicament of living a lie to the forefront of her mind whenever she found herself thinking too much about Luke. She was lying to him and that was something he would not easily forgive. This kept her feelings in check and reminded her of her disastrous history at romantic relationships.
Chapter Three
Luke bounded excitedly into the bookshop and whisked her out of it on the pretense of visiting a book buyer. Seated in the car, he told Vitoria he had a very special surprise in store for her. Of course, once she knew it was to be a surprise, Vitoria impatiently wanted to know immediately what it was.
“I would blindfold you if I could,” teased Luke.
“At least give me a hint then.”
“All I’ll say is, that it’s a good surprise and I know you’ll love it.”
“That’s nothing to
go on!” protested Vitoria.
“Will you just relax and enjoy the moment? We’re almost there.”
Vitoria decided that seeing he was not to be budged, that enjoying the moment was all she could do. Besides, it was good advice. She breathed deeply and relaxed, willing the bubbles of excitement that threatened to consume her, to settle. The close confines of the car did not escape her notice and she tried to quell the eager excitement building up within her.
They drove through parts of the town Vitoria had not yet seen. There had been little time to go sightseeing. When Luke finally slowed the car down in a dubious-looking area Vitoria turned to look questioningly at him.
“Don’t worry,” he said giving her a comforting smile, ‘it’s all good. You’ll see.”
An inner part of Vitoria trusted him, even as they drove past run down houses, kids playing on the side of the road in shells of what were once cars. Groups of men sitting on the pavement, as if holding counsel, stared after them, eyes suspicious. It was evident that strangers did not frequent this part of town. As they drew nearer to the end of the street, Vitoria’s heart beat a little faster. Was that really a…
“Well,” said Luke once they had stopped outside an abandoned church building, “what do you think?”
“Oh!” breathed Vitoria in awe, “it’s beautiful! How did you find it?”
Luke came round to open her door for her.
“I asked around. We don’t have many Victorian-style buildings left standing anymore. This one is off the beaten track as you can see. And it is not as resplendent as it once was.”
He smiled at the wondrous look on her face.
“It gets better. I got in touch with the owner of the property. We have permission to enter and have a closer look. I just need to find the caretaker who will let us in. Are you game?” asked Luke look at Vitoria in a way that had her stomach turning somersaults.
The huge grin and enthusiastic nodding was answer enough. Luke chuckled as he turned in search of the caretaker.
Left alone for the moment, Vitoria was overcome by emotion as she looked up at the crumbling Victorian church. It was in a sorry sad state, but in her eyes it was one of the most beautiful buildings she had seen, made all the more special because she shared the experience with Luke.
Luke soon arrived with the caretaker in tow who opened up for them. Vitoria didn’t register at first Luke taking her hand in his, all her focus was on the shell of a building in front of her. When she did she forced the self-consciousness from her mind and enjoyed the sensation of her hand being held.
“There is not much that is known about the history of the church,” said Luke leading the way. “All the owner could tell me was that he was told that a visiting British architect had drawn the initial design back in the early nineteenth century.”
The courtyard was overrun with weeds and brambles. Walls of the church had crumbled in some parts. Luke and Vitoria walked through the shell of the church in silence, both just content to soak up an atmosphere of former glory. There was something about the derelict building that spoke to Vitoria. She closed her eyes and tried to imagine the church in its glory days, pews filled with reverent worshippers, and sunshine streaming through arched windows casting a golden hue over the congregation, and colorfully painted with biblical scenes.
“Thank you for this,” Vitoria’s voice so soft that she was afraid at first that he did not hear her. But she needn’t have worried. He squeezed her hand in response.
“This was really a thoughtful gesture Luke,” her voice caught in emotion. Luke looked at her for a long moment.
“I’m glad I could share this with you,” was all he said.
Vitoria glowed with happiness.
As if a thought just struck him, he leaned forward, narrowing the distance between them. Vitoria expected and wanted the kiss she knew was coming, but at a critical moment, she pulled away. She was about to apologize but Luke smiled a sad smile and said, “All in good time.”
On the way back, Luke told Vitoria how grateful he was to her for coming up with the coffee shop idea. Vitoria was glad there was no awkwardness between them after she ruined a very special moment. There was nothing that could come out of it, Vitoria firmly told herself for the millionth time.
“There is one condition though,” warned Luke.
“Let’s hear it,” said Vitoria waving away any concerns that threatened to arise. There was nothing that could take away from the happiness she felt at the moment.
“You’re project manager.”
“Me?” asked Vitoria totally taken by surprise.
“Well, seeing that you’re the expert here, who better than to oversee the whole project? I don’t know of anyone more qualified.”
“You’re trusting me with this? You’re serious?” Vitoria still could not believe the faith and trust Luke had in her.
“I do and I am. And just to show you how serious I am, I have another surprise in store for you,” he said enigmatically.
Vitoria wondered if she could handle any more excitement. She was already bursting with happiness. Where would she put the rest of it?
“I figured that as you will be in charge of decorating the coffee shop, I’d play my part and help you find inspiration.”
Vitoria smiled. “How helpful of you,” she teased. “What exactly does this inspiration finding quest involve?”
“All in good time.” It seemed that Luke was going to ration the surprises he had in store for her. Vitoria was happy to wait, for the moment her plan on leaving as soon as possible quite forgotten.
Chapter Four
For the next two weeks Vitoria’s days were filled with planning and researching all the legalities involved in incorporating the coffee shop into Books Right Here. She met with vendors and tradespeople, accepting quotes and looking for supplies. She worked alongside Luke who was impressed with how much she knew about the industry and what needed to be done. Everything seemed to be unfolding as it should. Vitoria was satisfied that they would see this done just in time to launch before the start of the official tourist season.
It was towards the end of a very tiring day that Luke asked Vitoria to accompany him on a delivery. His motivation was that the destination was in a neighboring town that held magnificent views of the sea, being situated on higher ground. How could Vitoria turn down such an offer?
Luke was right about the splendid views. After delivering the eclectic load of books to an old age home, he took Vitoria to a popular visitor site, a picnic spot that sat on a picturesque cliff top.
Vitoria did not know what to attribute it to, was it being surrounded by happy families with chubby gurgling babies or young couples, arms entwined around each other, very evident in the throes of young love that drove Luke to revealing a part of his story. Over paper cups of fragrant refreshing ice-cream, he told her of his former marriage and his wife’s subsequent betrayal. Vitoria didn’t let on that Emma had mentioned some of this to her before. Instinctively she knew that he wanted and needed to talk to someone about it. So she just listened.
“I know this sounds pretty lame, but I was the last to know about the affairs. Everyone else seemed to know. Maybe I did know, at some level, but just refused to accept it.”
The ice-cream in his cup, momentarily forgotten, turned to syrupy mush, the colors blending into one unidentifiable color.
“Sophie and I met after college. We dated for only a few months before I asked her to marry me. I can admit now that I did not really know her at the time, not in the sense that really mattered. I’m not sure why she agreed to marry me, but whatever that reason was, she could not hold onto it for long. I found out afterwards that she started sleeping around after a month of being married to me. The guilt drove her to drinking and then she began using drugs, introduced to her by some guy.”
Luke looked out towards the sea but Vitoria knew it was not the view that commanded his attention, rather the ghosts of the past.
“It was at this
time that I tried to help by getting her professional help. She went to rehab clinic after rehab clinic but soon after leaving the clinics would fall back into the hands of the demons that haunted her.”
Vitoria reached out to touch his arm. It was all she could do. She could not find the right words that would bring him comfort.
“One day I came home to find her passed out on the bathroom floor.” Luke’s voice filled with chocking emotion.
“She had come close to losing her life through an overdose on a cocktail of hard drugs. After leaving the hospital she booked herself into another clinic. It was while there that she decided that she wanted a divorce. I refused at first, but she convinced me that it was what she needed, and it was what I needed too. During my marriage, I did not have time to be angry at the deception and lies. I was so concerned about getting Sophie the help she needed. The anger came hot and hard after. Anger directed at her infidelities and at myself for being incapable of helping her.”
Luke’s voice softened and he said so softly as if more to himself than Vitoria, “I had wanted a family. During my childhood it was pretty much just Emma and myself. My dream was to have a large family in a happy supportive marriage. All that died when Sophie and I divorced.”
“That can still happen,” Sophie whispered, too afraid to voice her sympathy any louder, in case it shattered this special moment with Luke.
“For a long time I thought that it is not meant to be. I have let Sophie’s betrayal color every relationship I have tried to have since. Now,” he said looking at Vitoria, “I’m beginning to wonder if my past has finally been left in the past and all those ghosts laid to rest.”
Emotion caught in Vitoria’s throat preventing her from making any sort of reply. If she was honest with herself she couldn’t deny the attraction to Luke. But she knew that there could be no hope of any future with him, not after pulling the wool over his eyes.