by Jenny Lane
‘And as I’ve told you before, you’re not going to win me over by flattery either,’ she told him firmly. ‘I form my own opinions in my own good time. Anyway, I’ve found it both interesting and thought-provoking.’
‘Well that’s something I suppose,’ he said, squeezing her arm, and she caught a glint in his eyes. ‘All this talking and the dusty atmosphere has made me thirsty. I really fancy sitting by a log fire with toast and jam.’
‘In your dreams — that sounds like nursery tea straight out of Enid Blyton.’
He laughed. ‘Mmn, and I know just the place — is Rose waiting for that bread?’
‘No, she’s going to be deeply entrenched in making her dolls’ house furniture this afternoon, and she loses all track of time when she gets involved — why?’
‘Do you fancy having tea with me back at Rowanbank?’
‘You haven’t got a log fire, have you?’
‘Only an artificial one, but it’s very realistic and I can offer toasted muffins and some of Mrs Briggs’ cherry jam. Seriously, Sophie, I think it’s about time I filled you in on one or two more things of which you’re obviously not aware.’
Sophie shot him a surprised look, realising that, in spite of her reservations, she really wanted to get to know more about this man and wondered what he was going to tell her.
She gave Aunt Rose a quick ring on her mobile, and then they set off for Rowanbank.
As they sat over tea in the cosy little study, Keir said, ‘As I’ve already told you there are one or two things you ought to know. Unfortunately, I can’t explain everything quite yet, because I’m not the only one involved but ...’
‘Involved in what?’ she demanded, wondering what on earth he was talking about.
He hesitated and Sophie thought he looked uncomfortable.
‘Sophie, I realise you’re aware there was no love lost between Erica and Rose. Have you any idea why that was?’
She stared at him in surprise. ‘No, and it’s none of my business. If Aunt Rose wants to tell me then, no doubt, she will. Anyway, it’s all water under the bridge now that Uncle Hugh has died. I suspect it was partly because Erica and Aunt Rose are very different people. Aunt Rose was very fond of Uncle Hugh. After all, she’d known him from childhood so they were great friends and she would have wanted to protect his interests. She spent a lot of time in his company before he remarried and, to be honest, I think she saw Erica as … as ...’
‘As a gold-digger?’ he suggested, and Sophie coloured, because he had come up with exactly the phrase she’d been trying to avoid.
‘Well, sort of, I suppose. I don’t remember much about Aunt Mary, but I know that she was more like Aunt Rose — which is understandable, as they were twins and had that special bond. Anyway, what are you driving at?’
‘I think Rose thought that Erica influenced Hugh’s thinking — tried to manipulate him into doing what she wanted.’
‘Well, didn’t she?’ Sophie demanded.
Keir shook his head. ‘Hugh was very much his own man. Oh, he let Erica have her head when it came to redecorating Rowanbank, but let’s be fair. She wouldn’t have wanted to be reminded of Hugh’s first wife, Mary, every time she stepped into a room, would she now?
‘I’m afraid the thing your Aunt Rose found hard to digest was that Hugh and Erica really cared about each other and had a lot in common on many issues. They actually had a good marriage, even though it was painfully short. But, leaving that aside, Hugh was passionate about the craft centre. It was his vision — I’m afraid Rose and he fell out over it, which is why the situation needs handling with kid gloves where she’s concerned.’
Sophie stared at Keir, as his words registered. ‘I’ve never heard any mention of Uncle Hugh and Aunt Rose falling out. It was Erica who dissuaded her from going across to Rowanbank by making her feel so unwelcome.’
His eyes narrowed. ‘Yes, well, let’s not go into all that. I suspect there were faults on both sides, but believe you me, I’m right in what I’m telling you over the craft centre. Hugh was heavily involved in making it viable — sitting on a committee, applying for a grant, that sort of thing. He was a very influential character.’
Sophie cupped her hands round the mug of tea. ‘Yes, I’m aware of that, but why would Aunt Rose object so strongly that they fell out over it?’
‘She was clinging onto the past, I suppose. She and her husband had built up the dolls’ house furniture business from scratch. Oh, there’s been opposition from several other people who’ve also used Peggy Munn’s shop as an outlet for their own wares. Like Rose, they suspect that Peggy Munn’s business will dwindle once the craft centre is up and running. They argue that they couldn’t afford to display their goods anywhere else, if that happens.’
Sophie sighed. ‘And they’re probably right, aren’t they? So can you blame them for being prejudiced? It’s such a pity both businesses can’t run in harmony with one another, but I’m aware, from what John Munn says, that Peggy might be considering retiring soon anyway. And what about Erica? I can’t believe she hasn’t had any input in all of this!’
Keir leant forward in his chair. ‘Naturally. She’s always supported Hugh’s projects and she’s very pro the craft centre because it was his dream, although she’ll openly admit that she isn’t overly interested in ceramics, which is why Hugh left me his collection and not her. Since Hugh died she’s taken a back seat and left it to others to carry out his vision.’
‘Namely you?’ she asked, as light suddenly dawned. ‘That’s why you’ve come here, isn’t it — to see that Uncle Hugh’s wishes are carried out.’
For a moment he didn’t reply and, watching him, Sophie thought a shadow crossed his face.
‘Partly,’ he told her at length, ‘but I needed a change of environment, the same as you, and so I thought that Penbridge was the ideal place for me to be for the time being.’
Sophie swallowed. ‘What makes you think I needed a change of environment?’ she asked, trying to keep her voice steady.
His eyes met hers. ‘It doesn’t take much to fathom that one out. You’re a teacher — this is term time. I suspect you’re escaping from something — a relationship that didn’t work out perhaps? Am I right?’
Sophie found his probing gaze disconcerting. The colour flooded her cheeks and turning away she said quietly, ‘It’s none of your business. Aunt Rose needed a pair of hands. I was available to help and I happen to like Penbridge. How about you?’
‘Me? I like Penbridge too.’
Sophie noticed Keir was slightly uncomfortable when the questions were directed at him. She still wasn’t ready to talk about Brett. It was so much easier to stay on neutral ground, and she suspected he felt the same way about whatever it was that haunted him.
They lapsed into silence.
‘Thanks for the tea,’ she said a few minutes later. ‘Now I really had better get back to Rose Cottage before it gets too dark.’
Keir got to his feet and peered out of the window. ‘It already has — I’ll walk you back. I’ve got a flashlight.’
‘There’s no need. It’s not that far,’ she told him, not wanting to appear too eager.
‘Sophie, I insist. You never know what might be lurking out there — leopards, wolves, dragons.’
Sophie burst out laughing. ‘Don’t be ridiculous! OK, you win. Don’t forget your sword!’
‘No need, you can just whack them with the bread!’
He leant towards her and for one mad, heart-stopping moment she thought he was going to kiss her, but instead he caught her hands between his.
‘Sophie, I really hope what I’ve said hasn’t made any difference to us being friends.’
‘Why would it?’ she asked, her heart beating a wild tattoo.
‘That’s good, because I like your company. Actually, I was hoping you might come to the village dance with me on Saturday.’
‘Great,’ she said, trying to sound casual. ‘I’ll look forward to that.’
***
‘Keir’s asked you to the dance? Brilliant — I’m going with Alan. There’s usually quite a crowd. It’s a popular event because there’s not much else going on this time of the year.’
It was Crystal’s afternoon off and they were sitting over lunch in her mother’s kitchen.
‘So what do I wear? Is it dressy or will my long black skirt and top do?’ asked Sophie.
‘Oh, that’ll be fine. They cater for all age groups at these village hops and the band is pretty versatile too. It’s just something to cheer us up after the winter blues. There’s a fish ‘n’ chip supper too — did Keir mention that?’
Sophie shook her head, relieved that she didn’t have to go dashing off to buy a more glamorous outfit. She had felt tempted to confide in Crystal about what Keir had said concerning Hugh and the craft centre, but something prevented her.
‘You’re seeing quite a bit of Keir, aren’t you?’ Crystal remarked.
‘Not so much as you’re seeing of Alan,’ Sophie rejoined with a little laugh.
The colour tinged Crystal’s cheeks. ‘Yes, we do seem to be hitting it off pretty well. Alan’s first wife died a few years ago. He’s so much more mature than the other guys I’ve dated and we’ve lots in common.’
‘That’s good. I think Keir’s just being nice to me because he’s Aunt Rose’s neighbour. I’m sure our paths wouldn’t have crossed otherwise,’ Sophie said lightly. ‘I expect he’s got someone tucked away somewhere.’
‘Mum says he’s a bit of a man of mystery. Nobody seems to know much about him, although he’s certainly making his presence felt in Penbridge.’
‘He’s obviously a friend of Erica’s,’ Sophie said carefully. ‘I mean she’s rented him the house lock, stock and barrel so she must trust him.’
‘Oh, yes, she does that all right. It seems they used to live near each other at one time — Gloucestershire, Worcestershire — that area. We all think he’s nursing a broken heart. Some woman’s thrown him over. Either that or he’s someone famous in hiding.’
‘Crystal, you’ve been reading far too many library books! Actually, he did tell me he fancied a change of environment. Periodically everyone needs to take time out to recharge their batteries. Although, it seems he’s got a pretty busy life for someone who’s doing that.’
‘Mmm, he’s a brilliant teacher. I really enjoyed the class last week. Now that you’re staying around for a bit you ought to see if you can join. They’re a friendly crowd, although Glenda can be a bit tiresome, always wanting Keir’s attention. Between you and me, I think she deliberately makes a mess of what she’s doing so that he’ll come and sort it out.’
‘Surely the intelligent thing to do would be to make such a good job of it that she won his admiration.’
‘I know what to expect from you then,’ Crystal teased. ‘You’ll turn out to be top of the class.’
‘I very much doubt that!’ Sophie protested. ‘I know virtually nothing about ceramics, although I’d certainly like to give it a go. Maybe I’ll have a word with Keir.’
Sophie knew she’d enjoy every minute she spent with Keir, providing she didn’t allow herself to think about what had really brought him to Penbridge. Was he recovering from a broken relationship the same as herself?
‘Well, as I’ve said before it’ll be interesting to see what happens when Erica returns. Will she sell up to Keir or ...’ Crystal trailed off as the back door opened and her mother came into the kitchen. Sophie hoped that Erica was going to remain in Spain for some considerable time. She didn’t want to think about Rowanbank without Keir.
***
‘You look very nice dear,’ Aunt Rose said as Sophie came into the room on Saturday night.
‘I don’t have too much with me, but black can always be teamed with anything.’
‘And that red top looks just right. I like what you’ve done with your hair too and those earrings add the finishing touch.’
Sophie hoped Keir thought so too. She didn’t want to look over-dressed, as she’d said to Crystal, but it wasn’t always easy to get things right. The skirt was one of those useful ones that came in handy for school functions because it didn’t date. Shoes were a bit of a problem so she decided to take the safe option, wear her boots and change into her shoes when they got there.
Keir had said he’d pick her up at seven-thirtyish and she was ready and waiting when he arrived. It was too dark to see what he was wearing, but she could smell his distinctive cologne as she sat beside him during the short drive.
For his part, Keir was very conscious of Sophie and caught the light, floral fragrance she was wearing. He was aware of the chemistry between them and wondered if she sensed it too. He’d had absolutely no intention of becoming involved with anyone again. One all-consuming love was all he’d expected during his lifetime.
At the village hall, Sophie quickly divested herself of her coat and changed into her pumps. Keir was waiting for her, looking elegant in his smart casual attire — a pale-blue, open-necked shirt beneath a darker blue jacket and trousers. He stood looking at her for a long moment and she felt herself colour beneath his gaze.
‘Wow! Sophie, I scarcely recognise you! I wondered what you’d look like when you were really dressed up and you’ve swept me off my feet.’
She coloured. ‘You don’t look so bad yourself.’
The village hall was crowded that evening, but Crystal and Alan spotted them and beckoned them across to their table.
‘Hi! We came early to help set up the hall. Doesn’t it look great?’
‘Certainly does, and what an excellent turnout.’
‘It’s always a popular event, that’s why we’ve grabbed a table.’
Sophie had wondered how the dancing would be organised with such a small dance floor, but it all worked beautifully. As Crystal had said, there was something for every age group and taste.
It was all very informal and great fun. After they’d watched Crystal being twirled about the hall by Alan, who was surprisingly nimble on his feet, Keir stood up and caught Sophie’s hand.
‘Come on, let’s show them what we’re made of!’
He whirled her away as the band struck up a popular number. Laughingly, she followed his lead. It seemed that most people seemed to put their own interpretation to the music if they didn’t know the steps, and Keir was no exception. Not for the first time, Sophie noted that, for a fairly large man, he was agile and moved rhythmically. She was a reasonably good dancer herself and enjoyed matching his steps and experiencing a thrill of pleasure at being in his company. After a time, he caught her hand and they went into a side room for a breather.
‘That was fun!’ she told him breathlessly, cheeks flushed.
‘I thought so too. Didn’t we do well!’ He leant towards her, a purposeful gleam in his eyes and she felt her heart hammering, anticipating his kiss.
‘So this is where you’re hiding, Keir!’ Glenda appeared as if from thin air. She was wearing a tight-fitting, short red dress with a plunging neckline.
‘Come on, you promised me a dance, remember?’ and she led him meekly away.
‘That girl is unbelievable,’ Crystal said, as Sophie rejoined them feeling completely deflated. ‘She came with a group of friends, but she’s intent on monopolising Keir’s attention.’
‘Well, he doesn’t appear to object,’ Sophie said shortly, watching the pair of them.
Crystal shrugged. ‘Oh, Keir’s one of those lovely men who’s able to make any woman feel she’s the centre of his universe when she’s with him.’ A remark which only served to make Sophie feel even more miserable. Why had he asked her to be his partner if he’d known Glenda was going to be ther
e?
Glenda was gyrating to the music in the most amazing way and Sophie thought she was deliberately showing off.
After a while, Keir laughingly excused himself and returned to the table.
‘That was a little too energetic for me,’ he said mopping his brow, ‘but hopefully I’ve shed a pound or two.’
‘Well, you certainly seemed to be enjoying yourself,’ Sophie remarked tartly, before she could prevent herself, and lowered her gaze as she caught the surprised look he shot at her. After all, she supposed he’d only asked her out of courtesy, because she was staying with his neighbour. It wouldn’t do to get too involved with a man whom she might never see again once she’d left Penbridge. Even as she thought this, she realised it was too late.
She was involved with him emotionally and she only had herself to blame for allowing a situation to grow which could only lead to her getting hurt all over again.
‘I didn’t realise Glenda worked at your school,’ Crystal said, to cover an awkward moment.
‘Yes, she’s one of the clerical assistants, but she’s also a friend of Beverley who works in my department. Beverley and her husband, Pete, who’s my boss, are an extremely hospitable couple and have invited me over to their place several times since I’ve moved here.’
And no doubt, Glenda had been there as well, Sophie thought dully. So much for her thinking that Glenda was just one of Keir’s students. He obviously knew her socially too.
Fortunately, supper and the raffle followed and, during the general banter and camaraderie there was no time to dwell on the incident. If Sophie could have only known it, Keir was kicking himself for not handling the situation better. He was all too aware that Glenda could be a bit manipulative. She was a lively girl, who was the life and soul of the party but, at times, he found her a little wearing and immature.
The dancing continued after supper, but when Alan and Crystal got up to leave, Keir and Sophie followed suit.
‘That was a pleasant evening,’ Keir remarked on the drive home. ‘I hope you’ve enjoyed it too.’