Conscious Revenge

by L. J. Greatrex

  “No problem,” Paul said, “I can leave it in secure parking until I get back. You enjoy your time with them. I know they will love it, it’s a credit to you and the workers of course,” he said.

  “That’s sorted, then I will give the car company a ring in the morning.”

  “Let’s walk along the beach,” Paul said, “it’s a great night and we may be inspired with a solution to the Lorna situation,” he said, knowing it was uppermost in my mind, despite all of the other distractions.

  “Sounds like a good idea. I’ll pick up the flask and some snacks we can make a night of it,” I replied, knowing we would need more than one evening to sort the Lorna situation out, as Paul called it, but I was more than happy to try.

  We took the path leading straight down to the sea. “Got your shorts,” Paul shouted, knowing full well I had only picked up the food and drink. “Looks like the nuddy then,” he laughed.

  “We will be caught with our pants down once too often,” I joked. “I’m not sure what the penalties are. If any, they have on the island for nude swimming.”

  “Probably off with your bits,” I laughed.

  “That would be no laughing matter,” Paul scowled and dived into the warm Caribbean Sea.

  Paul was off early the next morning. “Take care,” I shouted, “I mean the car,” I laughed, “I need it back in one piece. I know what you’re like, top down looking around for girls to wave to,” I quipped.

  “How well you know me,” he laughed, driving away giving me a salute.

  The car hire people dropped the limousine off just at the top of the track, not wanting to get stuck in the sand. With a top of the range car, the driver walked down to give me the key. “Have a nice day,” he called as the service vehicle picked him up. “I will collect it Sunday night unless you let us know otherwise,” he added.

  “Will do,” I replied. ‘Wow, what a beauty!’ I thought. I’m going to enjoy this drive. Hope the Worthing-Clays will be suitably impressed.

  Chapter Forty-Five

  Paul

  I hope Lorna has managed to sort out the flights as the party starts Sunday evening. I should just have time to buy a decent tuxedo and find a hotel room. Not one of the West’s hotels as I don’t need ‘extra services’ with my sea view. The thought made me laugh. With all the celebrities arriving for the launch, hotels will be like gold dust. The Hilton just in front of me seems just what I’m looking for. I parked the car out in front with the intension of bribing the concierge as he greets me. I bet all the guests try that one. I just hope my bung will be big enough to secure two rooms one for me and one for Lorna. I must have looked suitably wealthy as he took my bag with a smile and escorted me into the reception. Almost as soon as I entered, room keys were being made available.

  “Would you like the car parked?” another voice asked.

  “Not just at the moment, thanks, but could you direct me to the best shopping area locally?” I said.

  “Certainly, sir,” he replied and removed a list of the shopping areas closest to the hotel from a stand next to the desk. ‘Another bung,’ I thought, ‘being rich has its advantages, though I’ve seen the day when I wouldn’t have been able to afford a motel.’

  The shopping went well. I will be suitably suited and booted for the grand event. I wish I could have told Bill but everything being equal, I have made the right decision. I can’t wait to see the ship now that it’s being run by the rich Arab Sheik Saeed, as I’m sure he has impeccable taste. Lorna said she was nervous and was glad it was me that was to escort her. If only she knew, this is far from being the big surprise. I will have to pretend it is, as I have not only been here before but have studied every room on the gambling floor on my computer. I hope I don’t slip up and give the show away as she has no idea of the life I live in reality.

  Chapter Forty-Six

  I decided to get started on the journey as soon as I had changed into suitable attire for my new status (whatever that may be). ‘Affluent, I think that may cover it,’ I thought, as I started the limousine and moved back onto the road. ‘Must keep my feet on the ground,’ I told myself. Don’t want Lorna and the children to think I have become too big for my britches. It will be easy to slip into this part, if I’m not very careful.

  I arrived just in time for iced lemonade on the veranda. I must remember to speak to Massie not to forget to include a decanter of the best rum to other drinks she offers me. “I am preparing dinner for the Worthington-Clays,” she said. “I have aired the large guest bedroom just in case they stay the night,” she added.

  “I am not sure what their plans are,” I replied. “I think they plan to go on to Grand Cayman, but I’m not sure which day it could be either today or Sunday,” I added.

  “Well, whichever one Mr Pascal we are ready.” I was just about to correct her and asked her to call me Bill until I remembered staff would find it inappropriate, or so John Lattimar informed me. I will have to try harder to understand the ways of the super rich!!!

  I was enjoying the day strolling around the garden and down onto the beach sitting in the sand. I began to imagine the children playing in the sea. ‘I have to get a grip,’ I thought, just as Massie came running down to the beach.

  “It’s the phone for you,” she murmured, not wishing to disturb my daydreaming. “It’s Paul,” she said.

  “I’m on my way,” I replied. I was pleased with the distraction as I hurried to see if everything was going to plan with Paul. “How’s things?” I asked.

  “Fine,” he replied, “just wanted to check in to see if you arrived at the house alright?”

  “Yes, it’s great here, you o.k.?” I said.

  “All is well, see you as soon as I can. I will ring again to let you know how I get on at G&F.”

  “Fine,” I said, “speak soon.”

  It was getting a bit late and there had been no sign of the Worthington-Clays. Massie peered in from time to time to check if all was to plan. “I have no idea why I haven’t heard from them,” I told her. “I can only assume they are on their way. I will let you know in plenty of time to get the food ready,” I said, hoping that would put her mind at rest. I sat and listened to music on the patio overlooking the swimming pool. Now I can serve myself to a little rum to help me relax, that is the order of the day. I must admit I was expecting the Worthington-Clays some time ago, I’m sure they will ring if they are held up I thought.

  It was nine o’clock before the telephone rang and a very worried voice said, “Dorothy here,” she began, “Dorothy Worthington-Clay. I am so sorry we are late but our chauffeur has taken ill and we have had to leave him in the local hospital. We are on our way now by taxi and should be with you in a short while.”

  “I’m very sorry to hear that,” I said, “Is there anything I can do?” I asked.

  “I don’t think so just at the moment as the hospital has asked us to leave and ring in the morning. Hopefully, they will have more news then,” she replied.

  “Don’t worry about the delay,” I said, “I will tell the housekeeper that you’re on your way and she will serve dinner as soon as you arrive.”

  “Thank you so much,” she said, “we will be along shortly, thank you again.” As she rang off, I called Massie and asked her to begin with the dinner in preparation for their arrival.

  It was ten fifteen before the taxi arrived at the door and although they had been very concerned about their driver, their faces lit up when they set eyes on the house. “We were very impressed by the entrance but words cannot explain how overwhelmed we are with how the house now looks. We knew it would be impressive from what Julia had described and from the drawings, but this is wonderful. We should have done something like this ourselves years ago.”

  Dorothy (as she now asked me to call her) said, “We have no regrets as it was inevitable that downsizing would have to come and when the children were making their own lives away from here.”

  “It was the best decision,” Charles added. “Aft
er our Grandfather died, we had little if no knowledge of sugarcane or rum-making, so we had not lived here for some time.”

  We completed the tour just in time for the dinner to be served. I was happy everything about the house was to their liking. In fact, they both agreed they were very impressed. “I am glad you were able to come and see for yourselves,” I said. “If the children ever wish to visit, I will be happy to show them around.”

  “Thank you, you are very kind. I will mention your kind offer when I next see them,” said Dorothy. The meal was extremely good and I made a point of saying so to Massie. She had made a special effort and Dorothy and Charles congratulated her on the whole meal, “It was quite wonderful,” they agreed, if you ever want to work in the US….”

  Before Dorothy could finish, I butted in, “You’re very happy here,” I laughed, “are you not, Massie?”

  She smiled at me and nodded her head.

  “That’s sorted, no job in the US for you, young lady.” Massie blushed and made a discrete exit.

  “What a treasure you have there.”

  I agreed. “Without question,” I replied.

  After drinks on the veranda, I asked if they would care to stay the night. I explained that Massie had already aired the bed in the guest room and I would be very happy to accommodate them both. “That would be very kind,” Dorothy said, “it has been quite a day and it will hopefully give us time to call on the hospital before we make our way back home. It’s our Granddaughter’s birthday and we promised we would be back in time.”

  “I just hope we will manage to get the early plane,” Charles added, “as the rail and taxi services are not as reliable here on the island as on Grand Cayman.”

  “I don’t think Lucy would forgive us if we didn’t make it,” Dorothy added. “Not the best time to be without our driver, but I must make sure he is alright before we go.”

  “I will send someone to look after him when we get home to make sure he makes a complete recovery,” Charles said and Dorothy agreed wholeheartedly.

  ‘They are a very kind couple,’ I decided. Without a second thought I said, “Look, I have to go back in the morning. Why don’t I take you to the airport? I have to travel that way and to take you to Grand Cayman airport won’t be that far out of my way. I will be happy to help.”

  Charles looked quite surprised as if it was usually him and Dorothy that did the favours for people and not the other way around. “Are you sure it won’t be inconvenient?” he replied.

  “I’m sure,” I said. “If I was unable to help, I would say so, so don’t give it another thought.”

  “You are very kind,” he said.

  “I will ask Massie to set breakfast early say seven o’clock,” I suggested. They both agreed and thanked me once again. I asked Massie to take them to their bedroom, and made plans for me to make an early start. ‘Good job I have a limousine,’ I smiled to myself I couldn’t picture them screwed up in the Audi.

  Chapter Forty-Seven

  Lorna

  I was relieved to see Paul waiting for me when I arrived at the airport. “How was your flight?” he asked as he carried my one carry on case to his car.

  “Smart motor,” I said.

  “It’s not mine. I borrowed it from a friend. I must get myself a run around if I am to stay here on and off as it’s not very convenient using local transport. My aunt got rid of her car when she became ill before I had a chance to stop her,” Paul added.

  We arrived at the hotel and I suggested we have some food before we rest ready for tonight.

  “That sounds good,” Paul replied. “I will need all the help I can get to make myself look as good as I know everyone else will tonight,” I said.

  “You always look good to me,” Paul said, trying to boost my morale I guess he knew I had been at a low ebb for some time recently. “It will be fun and maybe we can win a fortune to take home,” he laughed.

  “In your dreams, if the new owner is anything like Brandon, we have no chance,” I replied.

  “I don’t expect he will follow in the West’s footsteps for one minute,” Paul joked. Paul was a good friend and I’m sure William would be happy for me to go out this evening with him.

  Chapter Forty-Eight

  The doctor at the hospital explained that Worthington-Clays’ driver had to have an operation. “Not serious,” he said, “the pain was from an appendix that needed to come out.

  The operation was not complicated and he’ll be up and about as soon as the stitches were taken out. “About a week,” the doctor added.

  “Thank you for everything you have done,” Dorothy added. “Send the bill to this address,” she said, handing him a card. “Someone will be coming up to make sure he is well enough to travel. I have booked a hotel room so he’ll have somewhere to stay prior to his return,” she said.

  We began our journey as soon as they had said their ‘goodbyes’. I was happy to get underway as I didn’t like the idea that I wouldn’t get them to the airport in time to catch their plane. “We can catch lunch on the hoof,” I suggested. “I know a small café that will prepare a lunch to take away, that’s if you don’t mind eating in the car?” I said.

  “Not at all,” Charles replied, “you are going to a lot of trouble on our behalf, so anything you say will go from now on.” I laughed at the thought of being in charge of the Worthington-Clays, but ‘life throws all sorts at you as you go on your way,’ I thought to myself.

  Although not speeding, I made good time and caught the early ferry. We decided to find the café as soon as we docked and “eat as you go”.

  Charles laughed. ‘Must be a new phenomenon for the likes of Dorothy and Charles,’ I thought to myself. I had to travel around the coast which was a treat in itself.

  “Beautiful,” I heard Dorothy murmur, “doesn’t matter how many times you encounter this island, I never cease to marvel at the rugged coast line and the different colours of blue in the sea.” I had to agree this side of the island was spectacular.

  The onward journey passed with little consequence and I made good progress. “We should make it with time to spare,” Charles remarked. “I can’t tell you how grateful we are for your kindness.”

  “It’s nothing compared to the wonderful gift you gave me by letting me buy your home,” I said, meaning every word. “I hope when you next find yourselves in the area, you will visit with me once again.”

  “We surely will,” Dorothy said. “We are looking forward to meeting your wife,” she added. If only they knew that was my biggest wish also.

  I waved to them as they went through to departures. “See you again,” I shouted, “have a great birthday with your Granddaughter.” Giving me a big smile they disappeared into the mass of people.

  It was mid-afternoon before I found a place to eat. I was starving and decided to eat at the first decent restaurant. ‘I deserve a good meal,’ I thought, after my Sir Galahad rescue of the Worthington-Clays. I was pleased to help them in any way and would never forget how they made possible one of the most important steps I had made in what I now considered to be my new life. I stopped at a place that resembled an old hacienda based on the Western movies, but the theme was purposely followed with a modern twist that seemed to draw the tourists. It may also be due to the spectacular view from the clifftop that attracted so much attention. Whichever it was, it drew as many sightseers as customers.

  I wouldn’t usually choose a place that was so busy, but from the outside it looked very impressive, the type of place Paul would love. So I parked the limousine and found a seat away from the main body of people and began to read the menu.

  “Can I get you a drink?” a voice asked.

  “Thank you, yes, a glass of your finest red wine,” I replied.

  “See anything on the menu that takes your eye?” the very attractive waitress dressed in a Wild West theme showing a little too much cleavage said.

  “Yes,” I said, “I would like the steak and fish combo please, medi
um well.”

  “Good choice,” she replied and disappeared into the kitchen. ‘It seemed like the world and his wife were here must be something special going on today on Cayman,’ I thought to myself, ‘a regatta probably as most people that visit are in some way drawn to the to the Caribbean Sea.’

  The food was excellent and I made a mental note to bring Paul here when he gets back. Like me, anywhere that serves steak this good is worthy of our custom. It was getting a bit late. If I’m to get the last ferry back home before the bar closes, I don’t want to miss Joshua now. I made my mind up to make him an offer he can’t refuse for the condo. I want to do it as soon as I can before I lose my nerve. Paul and I have agreed that my offer must reflect the financial position everyone thinks I have rather than the one I really have, so I feel I may be cheating Joshua in some way knowing I can really afford a much more generous offer. I understand where Paul is coming from, if I start offering ‘silly money’ as Paul put it, I would give the show away and we are not ready for that decision just yet. Paul’s fictitious aunt has not passed on just yet, so we still have to play the poor card.

  The sun was setting when I arrived on the outskirts of the harbour and the traffic became almost stationary. ‘People must be returning to a cruise ship,’ I thought. So not wanting to be caught up in it, I turned left into a back street and parked up. I knew a coffee shop just around the corner Paul and I had spent time there people watching many times so I made my way toward the High Street. I would freshen up first, then coffee and a cream cake would be great before the ferry arrives. It would also give the traffic a chance to ease.

  I walked towards the harbour to find the café which was no mean fête. Everywhere I looked was streaming with people, most of them dressed to the nines. ‘Must see what’s going on,’ I thought. They seemed to be loading not unloading a cruise ship. It took a minute for the penny to drop. It’s the casino ship that belonged to the Wests. Curiosity got the better of me. ‘It must be the maiden voyage under the new management,’ I decided. ‘Pity I don’t have an invitation as I was only viewing on screen the last time,’ I laughed. Let’s hope these new owners have better luck than the last ones, thinking of the prison cell the Wests were tucked away in.