A Secret Schemer

by Charley Dee

  My mobile woke me just after seven, to my surprise it was Tim saying he couldn’t get back until Sunday morning. After asking why he’d called so early, he once again expressed how busy he was. The call was short and to the point, nevertheless he’d kept his promise to keep in touch. To say I’m bewildered would definitely be an understatement, in fact between reality and dreams I truly am so mystified I can barely interpret right from wrong…. Making a conscious decision to put all of these baffling thoughts to the back of my mind I hastily showered and dressed before heading down to the kitchen to start my day. ‘Good morning Guys.’ I said cheerfully to Mary and Lucas. ‘Any tea in the pot?’

  ‘Good morning Lucy.’ they said in unison. ‘I’ll make you a fresh pot love, that one may be stewed by now.’ Mary added.

  ‘Can you spare me half an hour later Lucy, there’s some new products I’d like to go through with you.’ Lucas asked.

  ‘No problem, as soon as I’ve had a cuppa I’m all yours.’

  ‘That sounds like an offer you can’t refuse Lucas.’ Mary teased.

  ‘I’m not that fortunate Mary, all the lovely ladies are taken.’ He laughed.

  ‘When you two have finished, does anyone fancy hot buttered crumpets?’

  ‘Oh yes please.’ They both said with a smile.

  After an enjoyable breakfast and light hearted banter with Mary and Lucas I went into the office to sort out the banking for the weekend, making sure the cheques from Tim were inside my paying in book. Lucas gave me a shout and I followed him down to the cellar to sort out the new products. While we were discussing our order I disclosed the gist of my dream to him (poor guy must be totally fed up with my bizarreness).

  ‘Lucy it may be as well if you considered what his password could be, let’s face it that’s the only way you’ll ever get to the bottom of this. I’ll guarantee all his data is on line.’

  ‘I’m sure you’re right Lucas, however I have as much chance of disuniting Tim from his laptop as flying to the moon.’

  ‘Everyone makes mistakes Lucy, he’s not infallible.’

  ‘OK I’ll be optimistic and work on the possible passwords; meanwhile shall we try some of these new wines in the restaurant?’

  ‘Good idea, I’ll order six of each.’

  ‘I’d better get myself to the bank or we won’t have sufficient change for the lunchtime bar. See you later Lucas.’

  As I made my way to the office I bumped into Jena. ‘Hi honey, I’m going to the bank do you feel like an outing?’ I quizzed. ‘I’ll throw in a coffee and cupcake even.’

  ‘How can I refuse, are you ready to go now?’

  ‘Yeah, I’ll just grab the stuff from the office.’

  Walking to the bank I shared with Jena the full contents of my dream, stressing on the photograph with the stunning eyes. ‘What do you think it means Hun?’ I probe, hoping she’ll be able to give me a logical answer.

  ‘I wish I knew Lucy, however if you still have a clear vision of those eyes there has to be a reason.’

  ‘I don’t think I’ll ever forget them they were so alluring.’

  ‘What gender was the person in the photo?’ Jena asked cautiously.

  ‘I’m not sure as they were dressed in skiing gear, difficult to say, with pretty eyes like that I’d plum for female.’

  ‘Mm I make you right, was it the same building as before?’

  ‘Yes definitely.’ I assured.

  ‘You said it sounded like the building in Orpington, was there a for sale board outside?’ Jean asked thoughtfully.

  ‘I was just concentrating on Tim I didn’t want to lose him, plus it was dark.’

  ‘I know it’s only a dream Lucy, they can be interpreted by oneirocriticism, which by the way is the art of interpreting dreams.’ Jena explained. ‘I mean there are so many similarities plus your dreams are continuous.’

  ‘Get you and your fancy words. Although I feel I should wait until his fortieth birthday before I do anything, it’s only a week away.’

  ‘You’ve got more patience than me Hun, that’s all I can say. What with all the bank accounts, and the cash, and his oddball behaviour, not to mention the dreaded room. What more proof do you want that the guys a sleaze?’

  ‘Humour me honey it’s just one more week.’ I ask hopefully.

  ‘Let’s hope it’s not one week too long Lucy Ross.’

  In the bank I reflected on Jena’s last comment, once again I know she’s right in what she says. However I need to see this through, he could just prove everyone wrong.

  ‘Well if it is love I’ve only got myself to blame, believe me I’m not expecting him to put a ring on my finger. To be completely honest a ring is not what I want, you know me Jena I’m not the marrying kind. Like you I would normally add, although I’m not so sure with you and Andy, if you change your mind and take your nuptials I’ll be the first to congratulate you honey.’

  ‘I’m certainly not going to rule it out Lucy; I didn’t ever think I’d hear myself admit to that.’ Jena grins. ‘Can you imagine me tripping up the isle like a wobbly blancmange; I don’t think so, Chelsea Town Hall in a trouser suit, that’ll be my limit.’

  ‘Really, we’ll see about that Ms Wright.’ I assure. ‘Speaking of weddings I wonder if Kate will make it up the isle with Tom.’

  ‘Early days I feel, although it would be good to see her settled, she deserves it after the year she’s had.’ Jena adds. ‘Anyway what about this coffee and cup cake you promised me.’

  ‘Your mind is never far from food Hun. How about we walk through Victoria station for a quick look in the shops, then upstairs to the café to devour yummy cakes, then people- watch our favourite pastime.’

  ‘Retail therapy crafty cow, good job there’s something good at the end of it.’ Jena moans.

  Later in the bar while waiting for the band to set up, Archie informed me. ‘Were you aware Lucy that Vie Butler has started a petition to get you and Jena out of the pub?’

  ‘Seriously, how many people have signed it?’ I quizzed.

  ‘Three.’ He laughed.

  ‘Wow, let me guess her and her mate, who’s the third one?’

  ‘Me and Lucas think it’s the scruffy mutt.’

  We both fell about laughing; you have to give her ten out of ten for trying.’

  ‘Please tell Jena it’ll make her day.’

  We had a great night with an excellent band, the last weekend before Tim’s birthday. As I made my way upstairs later I had a distinct feeling that things were going to change. As the saying goes nothing lasts forever….

  Chapter 32

  Opening my eyes slowly I glanced at the clock to see it was almost seven, the rain was beating on the windows like a noisy waterfall. Picking up my mobile I noticed there was a message from Tim, I hadn’t heard the phone, perhaps the noise of the rain had drowned the sound. After checking the message details I could see it had arrived at three o’clock, what is he working a night shift now? The message was basic merely saying he would see me early afternoon, I simply replied ok. What more was there to say? I decided to get up and have a long soak in the tub before I started the day, even though the bar doesn’t open until midday, Sunday mornings are busy. The restaurant is normally full for lunches, plus the bar is buzzing, so me and Jena spend the morning helping out wherever we can. I really don’t want to mull over my meeting with Tim, I’ve spent far too much time considering this event. So to distract me from deep thoughts I listened to Heat radio, as they were playing hits from the nineties I sang along. Probably a good job that no one was close enough to hear my dulcet tones (in other words I just aint a singer).

  The morning as always was busy, Jena helped in the bar and I waited on table, another brilliant Sunday lunch. About half past two I received another message from Tim asking if he could meet me on the Embankment in an hour. I agreed although I said an hour and a half, as I fully intended to have my roast lunch first. Jena, Andy and Lucas joined me for lunch. I made a point of keeping the
subject of Tim out of the conversation; in fact none of them mentioned him for a change. After I’d eaten I excused myself and headed up to my flat to change. As I neared the Embankment a gentle breeze was forming ripples on the water, leaning on the barrier watching the gentle flow of the Thames gave me a soothing feeling. Now I was prepared for this little rendezvous, even though my true feelings were diverse. Glancing to my left I could see Tim was sitting on the next seat, so I made my way slowly towards him. He appeared to be preoccupied in his thoughts and didn’t turn around as I approached, so I gently touched his arm. ‘Lucy, I’m sorry I didn’t see you coming, how are you?’ he asked.

  Of course he hadn’t seen me, because he wasn’t looking. ‘I’m fine and how are you after your Scottish task?’

  ‘To be honest darling I’m glad it’s over, it was just hard work.’

  ‘So I guess you didn’t bring me a sprig of Scottish heather then?’ I teased.

  ‘I didn’t go shopping, in fact there was no time, I could have been anywhere really.’ He explained.

  Watching him, I sensed he was a tad embarrassed, so curiosity made me push on. ‘Surely they had postcards and gifts at the hotel where you stayed?’

  ‘It was only a bed and breakfast Lucy.’ He added.

  I could now tell he was peeved with my questions, or to be honest I was obviously pissing him off. Shame, considering all the information I was keeping to myself. At this moment in time I could easily start to quiz him about that information. However I decided to let it go as it was only a week to his notable fortieth birthday. I only hope the surprise he has for me next Sunday is going to be worth the wait. ‘It certainly sounds as though you’re glad the event is over.’

  ‘Definitely, shall we take a walk Lucy?’ He asked quietly.

  ‘Why not, it’s such a lovely day now.’ As we started to walk we both lapsed into pensive silence. Although we hadn’t seen each other for almost a week our conversation was somewhat tense. I knew on my part I was concealing the details I’d uncovered during the week. What Tim’s predicament was I could not comprehend. Hazarding a guess I would say it could refer to his finances, even though he appears to have plenty with five bank accounts plus a shoe box stuffed with notes. To break the silence I said light heartedly. ‘Only a week left then Tim before you become a millionaire.’ He kept looking straight in front of him as he replied. ‘We all have our dreams babe.’

  I decided to change the subject. ‘Do you have to work away this week?

  ‘No I’m local thank goodness, home every night.’ He looked towards me and smiled, taking my hand at the same time. His mood had changed in the blink of an eye, if only I were a mind reader.

  ‘Shall we go for a coffee?’ I suggested.

  ‘That sounds like a great idea, how about Starbucks?’

  ‘One of my favourites, providing I can have cake as well.’

  ‘Anything you want Lucy darling, anything.’ With that he squeezed my hand.

  ‘Do you fancy watching a movie in the flat?’ I suggested when we got back to the pub.

  ‘I haven’t eaten so I was going to pop out.’ Tim replied.

  ‘No you don’t need to go out I’ll make us a snack.’ I insisted. He didn’t look impressed with my suggestion; it’s times like these when I believe he has another woman in his life.

  ‘Ok why not.’ He agreed.

  ‘You select a good movie while I knock us up a tasty snack.’ I hastily ran down to the main kitchen and grabbed half a dozen eggs, a large can of beans and a loaf. I don’t keep much food in my little kitchen as I normally eat downstairs. Within half an hour we had beans and scrambled eggs on toast, and a pot of tea. After watching a couple of movies, Tim started to yawn. ‘Who’s ready for an early night?’ I teased.

  ‘Yeah I’m pretty tired, must have been the travelling.’ He muttered while stifling a yawn.

  ‘’Let’s go to bed then, leave the dishes there I’ll sort them out in the morning.’ By the look on his face I got the distinct feeling that he hadn’t intended sharing my bed.

  As we ventured into the bedroom I said cheerfully. ‘I’ll take a quick shower and I’ll be with you in a jiffy.’

  ‘Ok babe.’ He replied as he lay face down on the bed.

  Back in the bedroom after my shower I could tell by Tim’s breathing that he’d fallen asleep. He must have been knackered after that long journey. Slipping under the sheet I put my arm across his waist and snuggled down to sleep. At least tonight he was with me. I drifted off into a dreamless sleep. Waking suddenly and glancing at the clock it was only two o’clock, and once again I found myself in bed alone. What is it with this guy, he was supposed to be exhausted yet he’d gone back to his own room. Then I wondered if he’d really been asleep when he I’d got into bed…I’m now ninety percent sure he has another woman in his life, he has to as men don’t let the chance of a shag go that easily….well not the men I’ve encountered in the past. The rest of the night I was restless, drifting in and out of sleep, did I sign up for all this crap?

  Monday morning and I feel jaded, in fact totally cheesed off with this state of affairs, once and for all I need to know what the hell is going on. Nothing is making sense anymore, how many times do you give someone the benefit of the doubt? A few more days to go before my affirmed surprise, this has to be his final chance before I let him see his charms are not hitting the spot anymore. So his surprise had better be something amazing that’s all I can say….When I walked into the kitchen I found Mary alone. ‘Good Morning love, where’s Lucas today?’

  ‘He’s cleaning the lines Lucy, would you like a cuppa?’

  ‘I’d love one thanks Mary.’ I replied cheerfully.

  ‘You may be smiling love but that lovely smile of yours aint reaching your eyes.’ Mary remarked. ‘Are you really OK Lucy, you look as though you’ve the weight of the world on your shoulders?’

  ‘No I’m fine, just a few niggling issues with Tim.’ I offered.

  ‘I hope that young man realises how lucky he is to have you my darling.’

  ‘He’s a man Mary, do they ever.’ I laughed.

  ‘Trouble is my girl some of them just don’t know how to appreciate what they’ve got. It’s none of my business Lucy but I don’t think he treats you right.’

  ‘Thanks for caring Mary, don’t you worry I’ll sort him out.’

  I took my tea into the office as I was afraid I may start to pour my heart out to Mary. Tears were never far away these days and I realise I need to face this predicament on my own. I got into the mess, so hopefully I can extricate myself out of it without involving others, although I’m fully aware I have brilliant friends who will help me if I need, and for that I’m eternally grateful. For the next few days I have to try not to dwell on the status quo, simply work hard and keep myself occupied. With this in mind, I prepared all the banking which I’ve decided to do early as it’s Kate’s day off, and I may well be needed to help Grace in the kitchen. After my trip to the bank, I prepped vegetables and salads to help Grace and then went in search of Jena, who I found in the bar re-stocking with Lucas. ‘You two look busy.’ I grinned.

  ‘We’re rearranging the cold cupboards for the new wines love.’ Jena said cheerfully. ‘Lucas has been on a cleaning spree his morning, so I thought I’d better give him a hand.’

  ‘You look tired Lucy, are you ok?’ Lucas asked with concern.

  ‘Yeah I’m fine thanks Lucas, just been for a brisk walk to the bank. Who fancies a coffee while it’s quiet?’

  ‘Yes please.’ They both said in unison, as I made my way to the kitchen.

  ‘That is one very anxious lady.’ Lucas said bluntly.