A Secret Schemer

by Charley Dee

  ‘Maybe it’s about time you did Tim, as I’m not at all happy with the way our relationship is taking shape since you moved in here. I rarely see you; we never go out together and as for sharing a meal I can hardly remember the last time that we did. I certainly don’t want a guy who joins me in bed on the odd occasion when he fancies a shag! If you have someone else in your life then you should man up and tell me, as I’ve no intentions of carrying on like this.’

  ‘Wow slow down darling girl, I know I’ve been incredibly busy on a work project. I had no idea how much it’s been upsetting you. I haven’t got anyone else babe and I definitely don’t want anyone else. I promise I’ll make it up to you, the last thing in the world I want is to upset you Lucy I love you.’ He grovelled.

  Tim hugged me close to him and I felt my anger melting away, as hot tears rolled slowly down my cheeks.

  ‘You’ll have to change Tim.’ I sobbed. ‘I won’t go on like this.’

  ‘How about if we have Sunday lunch together here in the restaurant, and then go for a walk. I know Sunday is an easier day for you. Then we could go out one night in the week, or cuddle up and watch a DVD, what do you say darling?’ He proposed meekly.

  ‘As long as you keep to it Tim, I won’t be used.’

  ‘I wouldn’t use you Lucy, you’re far too important to me, how could I ever manage without you.’ He convinced. ‘Can you stay for a while or are you due back in the bar?’

  ‘Why what did you have in mind?’ I asked cautiously.

  ‘We could order a take away and curl up together and watch a movie.’

  ‘Ok then, you order in the food while I nip down to have a word with Jena. Then the night is ours.’

  As I run downstairs I hope that I’ve made the right decision, Tim always manages to charm me. I want to trust him, Oh well as they say only time will tell. This is the last chance saloon though Tim Carter….

  Chapter 19

  During the next couple of weeks all things appeared to be running to form, apart from a slight atmosphere between Kate and Archie. Fortunately they were seldom in the same area of the building; me and Jena were purposely keeping an eye on the state of affairs. Jodie, as I suggested no longer helps out in the pub, as I’m sure she’ll bounce back from her crush far quicker that way. I have the notion that Archie has hooked up with one of the customers, and is keeping a pretty low profile. Lucas is helping me by decorating my lounge and bedroom, he really is a trooper. He enjoys being busy and I can understand that, nevertheless it would be good to see him relax and start a social life. Maybe in time he will, I guess it’s still early days; broken hearts are fragile and take time to mend. Tim has kept his word so far and we’ve spent a couple of evenings together chilling out, plus we’ve had Sunday lunch together in the restaurant.

  Once again the weekend is almost upon us, and I can’t help speculating how long this relatively harmonious atmosphere will continue. With that thought in mind I hastily make my way down to the kitchen. ‘Good morning.’ I greet the guys heartily. ‘How are you all?’

  ‘Gosh you’re lively this morning Lucy Ross.’ Jena chips in as Lucas and Mary both stifle a grin.

  ‘Well why not, it’s Friday and we have a great band playing tonight and I’m feeling very optimistic.’

  ‘Oh please pour her a cuppa Mary before she self combusts.’ Jena laughs.

  ‘It’s lovely to see you so happy Lucy and why not.’ Mary adds.

  ‘Lucy there are some new drinks for us to consider, if you can spare me a few minutes before I place our next order.’ Lucas explains.

  ‘No problems Lucas I’m all yours once I’ve polished off some of Jena’s yummy toast.’ I jest.

  ‘What a cheek.’ Jena grins.

  ‘You know what they say Hun if you don’t ask you don’t get and all that.’

  Sometime later me and Jena were eating our lunch in the restaurant. ‘This morning I was reflecting over the past few weeks, rather uneventful I thought.’

  ‘Yeah I suppose you’re right, there hasn’t been much going on. A tad boring if you ask me.’ Jena laughed.

  ‘There is one thing that keeps flashing through my mind though.’

  ‘Yeah Hun and what’s that, something about Tim?’ Jena asks.

  ‘No, the night Archie and Jodie did the dirty deed and the question of precaution.’

  ‘Kate hasn’t mentioned it has she?’ Jena inquires.

  ‘No not a word, although I haven’t ever told her that we’d asked Archie.’

  ‘Well surely she must be aware that Jodie’s on the pill.’

  ‘Not necessarily, however do you think she really is on the pill?’ I probe.

  ‘Like you I’ve no idea, although she’d have been pretty stupid to say she was.’ Jena added bluntly.

  ‘Mm well the whole event was rather stupid anyway.’

  ‘Best we keep our thoughts to ourselves then Hun, don’t think there’s any point in raking over old coals.’

  ‘Right I’d better get into the bar and give Archie a break, see you tonight.’ With that I go into the bar to find Lucas has already let Archie go.

  ‘Don’t worry Lucy it’s pretty quiet at the moment, although a certain gentleman has been asking after you.’ Lucas nods his head towards old Harry Miles.

  ‘Best I go and chat to him then.’ I grin. ‘Hello Harry and how are you today?’

  ‘Come and sit down darling I’ve wanted to chat to you for a while.’ Harry replied.

  ‘So what’s going on then Harry?’ I ask tentatively.

  ‘Well I’ve noticed that Vie Butler don’t come in ‘ere much these days, I reckon that’s because her lad’s going out with the cook.’

  ‘I’m sure you’re right Harry.’

  ‘Yeah well that lad Jeff he’s got a bad name wif the ladies ya know, he’s had a good few darling and they never lasts. So Vie only is biding her time afore she comes back ‘ere making a nuisance of ‘erself. I just wanted you to know that darling, so as you is prepared for her.’

  ‘But I think Jeff is still going out with my cook Harry.’

  ‘At the moment girl but she aint found out about the other one yet.’ Harry explains.

  ‘What other one Harry, is he seeing someone else?’

  ‘I’ve said enough darling, you just keep them pretty eyes of yours peeled, that’s all I’m saying.’

  All of a sudden it looks as though our cordial period is coming to an end, I had a notion it was just too good to be true. Now how is the bubble going to burst? My first instinct is to have a word with Lucas and repeat what Harry has told me, he spends hours in the bar maybe he’s seen something.

  After repeating to Lucas the tale Harry had told me. ‘Please don’t feel obliged to tell me if you’ve seen anything Lucas, I really don’t want to put you on the spot.’

  ‘I don’t mind Lucy I realise you’re in a difficult position, I believe Jeff could be seeing Jayne.’ He disclosed. ‘I overheard part of a phone call and when I was at the newsagents the other morning I noticed them chatting on the other side of the road.’

  ‘OMG that must have been early to be having a chat as Jayne doesn’t ever work mornings here.’

  ‘That’s what I thought I must admit I was surprised to see them at that hour.’

  ‘Thanks Lucas, don’t worry I won’t repeat what you’ve told me, although the data will help when the shit hits the fan so to speak.’ I explain. ‘Believe me nothing shocks anymore.’

  ‘I felt you had the right to know Lucy as I’m aware of all the previous problems you’ve had surrounding Kate,’

  As Lucas was finishing his sentence Archie came back from having his lunch break, so I immediately changed the subject. ‘I’m sure you’ll remember the band Lucas they’ve played here before.’

  ‘I’m sure I will Lucy, I’m better with faces than names.’ He laughed.

  ‘Did you enjoy your lunch Archie?’

  ‘Yeah Jena served me a huge plate of spag bol.’

  ‘It wouldn’
t have been so tasty if she’d made it.’ I laughed. ‘Don’t tell her I said that though.’

  Leaving the guys in the bar my first thoughts drifted to Kate, as from what I’d heard this afternoon I could see trouble brewing for her. All I hoped was there would be no further problems with Jodie. Should I discuss the information with her or once again keep it to myself, why is life so cruel. Kate is such a caring person and I can imagine bringing up two kids on her own hasn’t been easy, especially twins. I’m not sure if she has any contact with their father, not having seen her for so many years it’s difficult to fill in all the gaps, maybe I’ll try and urge her to talk more. Even if she does I’m still not convinced that telling her about Jeff is the right way to go. I must admit with him being Vie Butler’s son I’m not in the least bit surprised at his morals. I mean who could have her as a mother and turn out to be an exemplary member of the community. I do believe Kate comes across as being vulnerable and unfortunately there is a certain type of person in our society who finds it extremely easy to make use of their vulnerability. Out of the three of us girls Kate is the one who craves the security of a committed relationship; her ultimate desire would be marriage. Her honesty radiates like the sun on a winters day, although her strength dispels like melting chocolate. Her penchant for the proverbial bad boy certainly doesn’t help her cause. On the contrary Jena is gutsy and rises to any challenge, nevertheless I know underneath she has a caring soft centre. As far as marriage is concerned she has never shown an interest, she is intensely independent. If any man could change her mind it would be Andy as they are definitely soul mates and I’ve never known her to be so happy. Now I have no desire whatsoever to be married, a relationship to me should be based on trust and respect. I guess that’s why I question my rather unusual correlation with Tim, in reality I know very little about him and all at once I have the urge to change that. All I want for all of us is to be happy; sadly we don’t live in an ideal world. I extend that wish to Lucas as I’d like to see that guy find a resolution to his seemingly lonely life. The sound of my mobile ringing stops me musing I realise I’ve been daydreaming for far too long, time to shower and change before the band arrive.

  While under the shower I’m still hesitant about telling Kate what I’ve heard about Jeff. Will it be better if I tell her or if she hears it from others, either way she’ll be devastated. Without further ado my decision is made, I’m going to tell her, because if it were me I’d definitely want to be told. Friday night is possibly the worse night for confessions, though it has to be done.

  Going into the kitchen I can see Kate and Grace are both busy plating up meals, so I slip into the office to sort out change for both of the tills. On my way back from the bar I can see the restaurant is not particularly busy, time to man up Lucy Ross….

  ‘When you’ve finished that order Kate could you nip into the office please honey.’ I ask tentatively.

  ‘Sure Lucy I won’t be a minute.’

  While I waited I found myself drumming my fingers nervously on the desk. ‘Was that the last order?’ I asked as Kate came into the office.

  ‘Yeah Grace is arranging a couple of desserts.’ Kate said smiling. ‘Is something wrong Lucy?’

  All of a sudden I feel like a squealer, the poor girl looks happy and I’m going to burst her bubble. ‘Sit down love, I’m so sorry to be the bearer of bad news.’ Kate was positively gawping at me. ‘I’ve heard some rumours about Jeff honey, and as you’re my dear friend I have to tell you.’

  Tears were already splashing from her eyes, I wanted to hug her and asure her everything would be fine, but I knew they wouldn’t.

  ‘What have you heard Lucy?’ Kate sniffed.

  ‘That he’s been seen on a couple of occasions with another girl.’ I was withholding disclosing Jayne’s name at the moment.

  ‘Do you believe the rumours Lucy?’ Kate muttered.

  ‘If it had come from one person I would hesitate, but as two different people have supposedly seen him I feel there has to be something in it.’

  ‘How long have you known Lucy?’

  ‘Just before I went up to change for tonight love, I knew if it was me I’d rather hear it from my friend than a stranger. I hate to see you hurt Kate, I’m so sorry.’

  Kate was trembling. ‘What should I do Lucy?’

  ‘If I was in your shoes honey I’d arrange to meet him and confront him, you can usually tell by their faces if they’re lying.’

  ‘Who saw him Lucy?’

  ‘One was an elderly customer, truthfully Hun I wouldn’t worry about who saw him as I’m sure you’ll be able to tell by his response.’

  ‘Why does this always happen to me?’ Kate asked quietly.

  ‘You know your trouble Kate Marshall you’re far too nice, you need to toughen up love. You know I’m always here for you.’

  Come here and give me a hug, get yourself off home and arrange that meeting.

  Later in the evening I was more than a tad surprised to see Tim jostling his way through the crowds, as he rarely makes an appearance in the bar. I worked my way over to him. ‘Well this is a surprise what can I get you?’ I shouted above the racket of the band.

  ‘Oh I can’t stop for a drink babe; I have to go away for the weekend as my mother’s unwell. So sorry, I promise to ring you.’ He replied loudly.

  ‘Ok see you on Sunday.’

  ‘I’ll try to be back Sunday. Be good.’ He made a phone sign with his hand and turned to exit the bar.

  I didn’t see that coming, what could I say, nothing I guess, however I can feel my curiosity is getting the better of me. I have no idea where his parents live even, far too busy to think now, although I do intend to find out.

  By the time I slipped into bed I was exhausted, but sleep wouldn’t come and I spent endless hours twisting and turning, something was really troubling me and I couldn’t quite put my finger on it….

  Chapter 20

  After a restless fidgety night filled with troubled thoughts, I was glad to see the morning winter sunlight shining through the window. At least now I can get up and endeavour to push these uneasy feelings aside. I need to bring Jena up to date with Kate’s latest dilemma, so with this in mind I send her a text message to meet me in the restaurant as soon as possible. Within seconds I receive a reply saying she’ll see me in fifteen minutes. After a quick shower I hotfoot downstairs to make coffee.

  ‘Good morning Mary how are you?’ I ask cheerfully. ‘No Lucas this morning?’

  ‘Good morning Lucy, he’s gone out for his paper, just give me a minute love and I’ll make a cuppa.’

  ‘I’ll make the drinks Mary you’ve got enough to contend with.’

  Jena sauntered into the kitchen attempting to conceal a yawn. ‘Hi guys, gosh I could do with a coffee.’

  ‘I’m just about to pour we can drink it in the restaurant.’

  I explained yesterday’s events to Jena, to make her aware of Kate’s new situation.

  ‘Poor Kate she’s surely getting the rough end of the stick Lucy, how did she seem last night?’

  ‘In a word gutted, let’s be honest here with a mother like Vie Butler it’s no surprise.’

  ‘I make you right, so we can expect a back lash from the old bitch tout de suite.’

  ‘Without a doubt she’ll bask in the knowledge, I’ve considered banning her, however I believe she’ll be equally as bad on the outside.’ I define.

  ‘Taboo I think would make her worse; at least if she uses the bar we can scrutinize the old hag.’ Jena added positively.

  As me and Jena were about to leave the restaurant I revealed that Tim had vanished for the weekend, like a ghost in the night.

  ‘You know my thoughts on the guy Lucy; did he say where he’s gone?’

  ‘To be with his mother who he says is unwell.’

  ‘Do you know where she lives, or in fact anything about her?’

  ‘No only that he stayed with his parents at Christmas, however Hun I feel the time has come t
o seek a little more information.’

  ‘Not before time Lucy Ross, the guy’s an enigma alright.’ Jena added.

  Going into the kitchen I could see that Kate had arrived early and by the look on her face, she hadn’t slept much. I gave her a reassuring hug. ‘Have you seen him yet Kate?’

  ‘Not yet Lucy, when I rang him last night he said he was busy, so I’ve arranged to see him tonight.’

  ‘Well you know where I am honey if you need a shoulder to lean on.’

  ‘I know Lucy and thank you for caring.’

  While I was in the bar during the afternoon a mysterious feeling shimmered through me. All I could visualise was the door of the bedroom that Tim rented from me, as though something was drawing me to that room. On reflection I realised that I had never set foot in the room since he’d moved in. Quickly checking that I was leaving the bar in good hands I hastily ran upstairs to my flat. I tried the door only to find it was securely locked, so I nipped into my bedroom to secure the master key. As I walked into the room I was stunned by the disarray, in my mind I believed Tim to be an immaculate avaricious person. The scene that greeted me here was that of a remiss, lack lustre student. I stood just inside the door absorbing every detail, the wardrobe door on the right was hanging open, there appeared to be a couple of suits in side. On the open door of the wardrobe a few shirts had been slung over the top of the door, I could see one had dropped to the floor. A shabby duvet lay in a heap on the bed, on top of a crumpled sheet; both pillows were lying limply on the floor. The contents of a case with garments scattered across the carpet adding to the disarray. There were two drawers partially open in the dressing table, they were empty, and on the top was a discarded tissue. His computer system took up much of the room; the chair was lying idly on its side. A wicker bin was overfilled with mostly screwed up papers, although I noticed the used jiffy bags which had contained his packages were visible in the melee. As I observed this disorganised clutter, my initial reaction was that who ever resided in this chaotic disorder had to be unstable and insecure. There was nothing familiar like a photograph or an ornament of some description. Even the dressing table lacked any everyday items. I realised I hadn’t moved from the spot I almost felt as though I was glued to the floor. I know if Jena was with me now she would encourage me to search through his belongings while I had the chance, being as I knew so little of this guy. However at this stage I can’t bring myself to rummage, to be honest apart from the over filled waste bin there was little else to look at. It was patently obvious that Tim’s confidential data was concealed in his computer, and at present I don’t feel I have the right to pry…. As I left the room I locked the door. My head was now filled with all kinds of mixed emotions, without admitting I’d been into his room, which he does pay one hundred pounds a week for, how can I confront him? So for the time being I must carry on as normal, although I fully intend to seek answers to my questions. As my mind was in complete turmoil I opted for a long soak in a hot bath, and more musing I guess. At the moment I feel as though I’m strung together by gossamer threads…