Beautiful Curses: Book One

by J. Dorothy

  “No, but James mentioned it the other night at the pub. Sounds like fun. Have you got room for one more?”

  “Definitely, there are plenty of beds. I bet Spencer would love for you to come.” Gabriella smiled and caressed her ring. “Why not give him a call. You can ring here. He'll be home Christmas Eve.”

  “Oh, I'm not sure. I don't want to interrupt your family time.”

  “Not at all. Spencer won't care. He'll be really glad. In fact, he’ll probably be waiting by the phone.”

  “Okay. I guess I could.”

  “Great, but ... um ... could you maybe forget to mention I already spoke to you. I shouldn't have borrowed his phone without asking. And I know he'd kill me if he found out what I told you.”

  Lisa laughed. “Yeah sure, I’ll tell him James asked me to ring. I did tell James I might call anyway. Your secret is safe with me. Don't worry.”

  “Thanks. It was really nice talking to you. I’m really looking forward to meeting you at New Year.”

  “Yeah, you too. Have a Merry Christmas,” Lisa said in a cheery voice, like she'd just been given the best Christmas present.

  "Oh I definitely will," Gabriella said, then chuckled as she pressed the end button and sneaked toward Spencer’s room. She planned to tuck his phone back into his jacket pocket, and erase the call memory, long before he discovered it was even missing.

  NINE

  Jo woke to a bright Christmas morning. A chill rushed over her as she pulled the covers back. She suddenly thought about James and wondered if Santa had paid him a visit during the night. Smiling, she put on her dressing gown and made her way downstairs to see if Jack and Beth had woken yet.

  Thinking everyone would still be in bed, it surprised her to hear low murmuring voices in the kitchen. It sounded like an argument of sorts so she stopped on the landing to listen, not wanting to interrupt.

  “Beth, I didn’t tell you Lisa called because I didn’t think it was important. She just wanted to find out about New Year.”

  “Maybe we just need to take a step back. I like you, Spencer, but I don’t really know that much about you. Just give me a little time.”

  Whoa! These were definitely not the two people Jo expected to be in an argument at six thirty on Christmas morning, or any morning for that matter.

  “I don’t want to … step back. It’s hard enough that my family don’t know. Do you think that conversation would have taken place last night, if they knew we were together? I didn’t like seeing my family upset you, even if it was unintentional.”

  There was silence for a few moments and Jo moved a little closer, her eyes widening.

  “Spencer, everyone will be getting up soon,” Beth said quickly, sounding breathless.

  “I don’t care. I want them to know about us,” Spencer said in a louder tone.

  Beth used a quieter voice, “Look, I don’t want to ruin everyone’s Christmas, especially Jo's. Please, just leave it. Give me some time to think.”

  “I can’t believe this. Why did I have to be such an idiot? I want to be with you, why is that so difficult?”

  “I don’t mean to be difficult. It’s just…well…I thought I could until last night but then I... We might be moving too fast.”

  “You know how much I like you. I can’t think of anyone else, especially not now, not after ...”

  “I really don’t know what to say,” Beth replied. “I’ve never felt like this and it’s scaring me. I can’t believe how hurt I was by the thought of you lying to me.”

  “I’d never lie to you. How could I look in those beautiful eyes and be dishonest. I should’ve explained before. I promise to tell you everything from now on. I’ll write down my personal history if it helps, but don’t let my messing up get in the way of us. Please.”

  Beth sighed and there was silence again…

  Jo crept quietly back upstairs, her mind spinning with what she'd just heard. She needed time to think. Jumping into the still warm bed, she pulled the covers over her head, blocking out the light, speculating how long this love affair had been going on.

  She had an inkling Spencer liked Beth. The way he flirted with her made it obvious. Beth on the other hand, didn’t make anything obvious. But then, when Jo thought back, she began to see how blind she had been. Crushing on James had messed with her head. Normally she could read most people and situations. She certainly spent enough time watching and listening rather than participating. But she hadn’t seen this one coming. Spencer said they’d been close, but when? He did go over there to show her the photographs, oh … and they did come back to the farm alone last night.

  And what about this Lisa girl?

  The way he’d been so quick to defend himself, Jo thought he was trying to divert attention away from admitting he liked her. Obviously not. Beth must have been devastated when Gabriella started going on about her. She brought it up at every opportunity, even Peter and Sarah joined in. No wonder Spencer wanted to convince Beth to tell everyone, it must have driven her insane. Wow she really did have some amazing acting skills.

  Half an hour later, Jo still lay hidden under the covers when she heard a muffled knock at her door.

  Blowing out a breath, Jo pulled back the covers and called out, “Come in?” Guessing who it must be.

  Her door opened and sure enough, Beth appeared and tentatively made her way to sit on the side of Jo’s bed. “Morning Jo, Merry Christmas. I wasn't sure if you'd be awake yet.”

  “I only just woke up,” Jo lied. “Merry Christmas to you, too. Is Jack up?”

  “Not yet. He went to bed late, so he'll probably sleep longer than usual.”

  Jo yawned. “Well, I suppose we can go and have a cup of tea. But, I wouldn't mind having a shower first. Ella always uses all the hot water and it takes an age to heat up again.”

  Beth looked down at the floor. “I actually need to talk to you.”

  “Oh.”

  She looked up again, her emerald eyes widening. “I haven’t been completely honest about something.”

  Jo remained silent, looking at her intently.

  “I don’t quite know how to say this exactly … well, here goes. I ... um ... have feelings for your brother. I have since I first met him.” Beth winced. “And … well … we've started seeing each other.”

  Jo continued to stare at her.

  Beth bit her bottom lip. “It happened so quickly. I’ve barely been able to keep up with it myself.” She gave Jo a quick glance, before looking down at the white knuckles of her clenched hands. “I hope you don’t feel I’ve let you down by not telling you.”

  Jo rubbed her head, pretending to be stunned. “You and Spencer? I ... um ... had no idea.”

  “Yeah, I know. And I know that we’ve only been friends for a few months, but it feels like a lot longer. You're like family to me, Jo. I don’t enter into relationships easily, well not that I've ever had a boyfriend before, but you get what I mean.”

  Jo nodded. Not really sure she did, but she didn’t want Beth to feel even more uncomfortable.

  “I’ve been totally blown away by my feelings for Spencer. I’ve never felt this way about anyone. Not even my family—but I suppose that’s different.”

  “You really feel that strongly? And after only knowing him a few weeks?”

  “Weird. Yeah. I sound more like a teenager with a crush, hormones on steroids kind of thing. I don’t think it is. I've had crushes before. But this feels different. Spencer has insisted on telling your family. He wants to be in a committed relationship. And I really want that too.”

  Jo contemplated her words. Spencer and Beth in a serious, committed relationship. That might alter things. But she had no intention of losing Beth as a friend. Not now she finally had one.

  “This may take me a while to process. I mean you’re my best friend and I love Spencer to bits. I’m really happy for you, Beth. You deserve the best, and I can’t think of anyone better than Spencer.”

  Beth blew out a breath and uncl
enched her hands. “Thanks Jo. And I promise it won’t affect our friendship. You've been my saviour since moving here and I’ve never been close to anyone outside my family before. I don’t want anything to ruin that.”

  “Spencer will just have to butt out where we’re concerned.” Jo patted her on the shoulder and laughed.

  “Yes, that’s definitely non-negotiable. I’m first and foremost your best friend.”

  Jo nodded in agreement and smiled. “So, what now? Is Spencer going to announce it over Christmas dinner by kissing you before desert?”

  Beth rolled her eyes and Jo started to laugh again.

  Beth glanced toward the mirror on top of the dressing table, fidgeting with a heart pendant around her neck that Jo had never seen before. She suddenly wondered if Spencer had given it to her as an early Christmas gift.

  “I’m a little worried how everyone’s going to react. Spencer said he’d tell Sarah and Peter.” Beth sighed and then added, “Oh … and Gabriella of course.”

  Gabriella. Now that would be interesting. She absolutely monopolised Spencer's time when he was home. Now she wouldn't take precedent. Beth would. Her perfect, well groomed feathers were about to be ruffled. Oh how Jo would love to be a fly on the wall for that conversation. This Christmas was certainly shaping up to be the most exciting yet.

  TEN

  Gabriella woke to the sound of Christmas carols playing downstairs. Uncle Peter's subtle way of waking everyone on Christmas morning and signalling the family to assemble in the lounge for the traditional present opening. She smelt the aroma of fresh coffee specially bought for the occasion and blinked at the bright light streaming through the gap in her curtains.

  Rubbing the dust from her eyes she sat up in bed. Feeling the chill as the covers dropped from her shoulders, she reached for her flannel pink dressing gown and shivered as she pulled it over her thin pyjamas. A foreign cry echoed from downstairs and Gabriella scowled at her door, remembering they weren't alone as a family this year. Something she hadn’t been able to prevent, despite her best efforts.

  Still scowling at the door, she considered staying in bed, but then thought back to the previous night. Smiling, she remembered Beth’s face as she sat squirming while Gabriella kept on teasing Spencer about Lisa. She nearly laughed out loud at Beth's poor attempt to look unaffected, but she couldn't have Spencer suspecting her. He was already annoyed enough, sending her scathing looks all evening. Not that it worried her. He’d forgive her. It wasn’t possible for anyone to be mad with her. They were all well and truly under her spell.

  Kicking back the covers, at that happy thought, she stretched and got out of bed. As always, she checked her reflection in her full length mirror, admiring the fact, that even though she'd just woken up, she had no need to brush her shiny black hair, or wash the perfect complexion on her flawless face. Perfect as usual.

  After pulling on some red woollen socks she made her way downstairs to find Peter and Sarah in the kitchen making breakfast rolls. She kissed them both on the cheek. “Merry Christmas. Smells good as always. I love Christmas morning.”

  Peter smiled admiringly, his brown eyes twinkling at her. “Right on time for the present opening. We’ve nearly finished in here. Is Spencer up yet, Sarah?”

  Sarah was in the throes of cooking. Her hands covered in flour, her makeshift bun falling out in ringlets of her auburn hair across her forehead. The oversized jumper she wore on her small frame covered in cooking stains. “No. Gabriella could you go and wake him, please.”

  “I’d love to. I'll just get my old water pistol.”

  Sarah sighed, pushing some of her soft curls from her face. “Be nice Ella, he was really tired earlier.”

  “Has he been up already?’ Gabriella asked, surprised. “I hope he wasn't peeking at his presents.”

  “He didn't sleep well, so I sent him back to bed.”

  “Oh. Poor Spencer, I better wake him gently, have you still got that gong, Uncle Peter?”

  Peter chuckled, but Sarah sighed again. “Maybe I should just do it.”

  Gabriella twisted her lip, wondering why Sarah was so grumpy all of a sudden. She shrugged. “Just a little joke. I promise to be good.”

  She quickly made her way out of the kitchen and down the hall to Spencer's bedroom. The door was closed and she could hear his heavy breathing from outside.

  Opening the door softly, she went in and bent over him. “Spencer, it’s time to get up. Wakey! Wakey! ” she shouted as loud as she could.

  He didn't move beneath the mound of covers, so she poked him in the back, as she continued to shout, “Spencer, time to get up before you miss ... hot coffee ... freshly baked rolls ... bacon and eggs ...presents, Christmas dinner ... dessert.”

  He moved slightly, then rolled over and pulled the covers tighter around himself.

  Gabriella smiled. She knew exactly what would get a reaction. Settling on the edge of the bed she leaned down near his ear. “Lisa called this morning to wish you a Merry Christmas. I told her you'd call as soon as you woke up, so you can two love birds can talk and blow kisses over the phone.”

  Spencer threw the covers back with so much force they nearly knocked Gabriella off the bed. She quickly righted her feet and shuffled further onto the bed, smiling at him. “Wow, this Lisa girl has got you all kinds of worked up. Just the mention of her name gets you all hot and bothered.”

  “Gabriella, this has got to stop!” Spencer yelled, his face turning a nice shade of red. “For the last time, I'm not interested in Lisa! I'm ... I'm with Beth. We're together. Now leave it alone? I don't want you to mention Lisa's name to me, or Beth, again!”

  Gabriella stopped smiling and stiffened. She felt like she'd just been slapped in the face. Hard.

  Spencer and Beth?

  That didn't make any sense.

  How did that happen? It couldn’t be true?

  She'd been positive her constant meddling had worked. Her heart raced. Her head pounded. She couldn't think clearly and needed to reflect. Quickly, she flicked the familiar latch on the casing of her ring and pressed down firmly on the pretty blue stone.

  Instantly the air chilled and an eerie silence filled the room. Spencer sat with a scowl on his frozen face, immobilised. The only movement was Gabriella, who sprung from the bed and began pacing up and down, trying to come to terms with the situation. She had to think fast. There was still time to fix things, but she needed to reassess and calculate her next move.

  She couldn't let Spencer know her true feelings. He'd expect her to be a little shocked and confused, but he wouldn't expect her to be angry about his relationship with Beth. This was how she needed to play it. Her brother was an asset and losing him was not an option. She needed him. She wasn’t exactly sure why. But she trusted her instincts. One day she would get the answers she wanted. Patience was her ally.

  Positioning herself on the bed, Gabriella blew out a relaxing breath as a serene expression crossed her face. She looked down at the sapphire in her ring and noticed the misty white smoke beginning to swirl around inside its lovely blue depths. A sign that she only had seconds left.

  In a matter of moments Spencer's face muscles began to twitch back to life. He sat still, but his eyes were watching her now, his expression tense.

  “Spencer, I can't believe it. I would never have guessed in a million years,” Gabriella said, as she folded her arms.

  He took in a deep breath, “Look Ella, I'm sorry I shouted at you. Of course you didn't know about us, but now you understand why I’m so annoyed with you.”

  “Of course. I thought you were just being oversensitive.”

  “I really like her, Ella. I couldn't stand the constant teasing, knowing it was hurting her. I had to tell you and the rest of the family.”

  “Everyone knows?”

  “Yeah. But I asked Sarah not to say anything until I had the chance to tell you, myself.”

  “Well I'm glad you did. You know I didn't intentionally hurt Beth. I really had n
o idea you were together. I seriously thought you were holding a torch for Lisa and just needed a push.”

  “I know, but please, no more … You'll just have to find something else to torment me about.” Spencer suddenly grinned. “Mind you, that may prove difficult. I'm pretty perfect.”

  Gabriella decided to play along, glad he was buying her apologetic act.

  She scowled playfully. “I seem to recall you still have all those stupid action figures. In fact I bet you have a battle scene set up somewhere in your room. I'm sure Beth would love to know about that little juvenile secret.”

  Gabriella jumped off the bed and started flinging open his cupboards and drawers. Spencer leapt from his bed and caught her from behind, then he dragged her out of his room, slamming the door in her protesting face.

  “I'm very patient, Spencer. I’ve got all day, the foods on my side remember,” she yelled as she banged on the door.

  The next minute Sarah came down the hallway with another stern look on her face. “What’s the hold up? Peter’s beside himself wanting to open presents. You know how he is about Christmas. Come on, you two, we're all waiting.”

  “Yeah Spencer, stop being such a baby. I promise I won't look for your stupid dolls,” Gabriella teased.

  “It’s as if time has moved backwards ten years, now come on,” Sarah said with a smile, sounding much more like her happy self.

  “I'll come out when she's gone,” Spencer called out. “Oh, and they aren't dolls, they’re super hero action figures, for ages, five to sixty-five. Says so on the box.”

  “Alright you big baby, but you have to leave for London some time,” Gabriella yelled as she walked down the hallway behind Sarah. She was still recoiling and processing, but continued to give the outward appearance she wasn’t bothered about Spencer and Beth. They could stay together for the next two days. There wouldn’t be any harm in that. But that was the only allowance she was prepared to make. As soon as Christmas was over, the fun and games would recommence. And this time, she would make sure there would be no rekindling their short lived romance.