by Ian Wilfred
“Right, enough of all this. I’m ready to sit and relax in comfort with the rest of this bottle of wine.”
Gemma nipped to the toilet and when she got back Dario had ordered another bottle of wine. She didn’t comment, but she did feel so much better after having eaten. The file of paperwork was underneath Dario’s chair, a signal that he’d had enough of the refurbishment and didn’t want to discuss it any further. Trouble was, what should they talk about now? In the short time Gemma had known Dario, she now realised that it took a time to draw things out of him and he needed to relax. She waited a while before raising the subject of Craig and the kiss.
“Dario, you know what Dorothy and Sid’s parties are like, you were the one who warned us about them. Well, you’ll also know the type of people who go to them. Poor Craig was treated like a child’s plaything all evening. Those women wouldn’t leave him alone, it was embarrassing. Dulcie and Rupert told me to go and rescue him as it was all getting a bit too much. If we’d have gone and sat down, they’d have grabbed him up to dance again.
“Now, I know we’d both had quite a lot to drink, but then the music changed into a slower, more smoochy melody, and a combination of alcohol, romantic music and wanting to get away from those awful women led to a kiss. Just one kiss, that’s all. I know it was wrong and it seems like it’s spoilt our friendship, which is a shame. Things are awkward between us now, and I’ve felt very uncomfortable about it over the last few days. I promise you, it wasn’t how it seemed. It was an innocent, one-off.”
“You don’t need to promise, Gemma. It’s not as if you’re interested in me anyway.”
Gemma didn’t know what to say. There was a long silence while she thought it all over. She was interested in him, but in a few months’ time she’d be leaving Graingcia and heading back to England to look after Dulcie and Rupert in their home. They’d given her a wonderful opportunity to live and work in Spain, and she didn’t feel as if she could desert them. Life wasn’t as straightforward as she once thought, and even if they had some sort of a relationship, could anything ever come of it?
For the next hour or so they chatted about life, their childhood backgrounds and their families. The wine bottle was now empty and they were both yawning. It had been an exceptionally long day, and tomorrow would be much the same. Gemma announced she was going to bed.
“Before you go, Gemma, there’s something I ought to tell you and it’s something that not many people know – certainly not many people in Graingcia, as it concerns Maya.”
“If it’s that private, you don’t have to tell me.”
“I do, Gemma, because you may well see me in a different light and it will answer your questions about Maya. She’s the mother of my son, Mateo.”
Chapter 28
Dario had a son! Gemma had difficulty coming to terms with the news, it was a shock, a totally out of the blue revelation. Although obviously shocked, she now had more sympathy for Dario as he explained his story.
They had been young, still children themselves and the prospect of bringing up a baby was far from their minds. Both families thought they were doing the right thing in taking care of the baby, as Dario and Maya had their lives in front of them and were too young to settle down. When Dario’s grandmother passed away, the perfect solution was for Mateo to now live with Maya’s mum and dad.
Gemma knew that Dario was a sensitive, caring person who would wrestle with his conscience over his son’s welfare. She wanted to ask him more but sensing it was the first time he’d talked about his son for a long time, Gemma held back. She wanted to give him a big hug, but knew that would also be wrong, so she provided a listening ear and heard him out.
Dario made it clear time and time again that neither him nor Maya wanted to stay together. Mateo’s life wouldn’t be as happy, and for everyone’s sake it was best that they all remained on civil terms as one day in the future he would obviously be asking his own questions.
Gemma’s alarm went off. She felt dreadful, just as if she had only just gone to sleep, which wasn’t far from the truth having stayed up late listening to Dario’s sad story. She wondered how she should react now. Would they continue the conversation or just pretend it had never happened?
The shopping trip to Ikea would help to diffuse the situation. They had a lot to do before the long drive back to Graingcia, and it would be a long day. Deciding that she wouldn’t bring up the conversation about Mateo, Gemma showered and got ready to meet Dario. She would start the day on a positive note, full of excitement for the refurbishment and focused on the tasks in hand, wardrobes and getting value for money.
“Are you sure Pablo will agree with our decisions? These would look good, and they’re one of the cheapest wardrobes too. They’d stand from floor to ceiling and would easily store all the guests’ possessions. You could even put a little safe inside where they could safely put their valuables – money, passports, etc, while they go out. Do you think we should run all this past him before we order?”
“I think we should stop looking at wardrobes and go for a coffee instead. We can get the crockery and everything else afterwards and then head back to Graingcia. You never know, I might be able to manage a plate of meatballs too.”
The car was packed so full that Dario was hardly able to see out of the back window. Gemma joked about all the times she’d seen people trying to squeeze furniture in the back of their cars in Ikea’s car parks. They’d bought all the home furnishings and kitchen equipment they needed, ordered the beds and sofas, and decided that Pablo should make the decision about the wardrobes.
“Did you enjoy your first visit to Ikea, Dario? At least it won’t be as overwhelming next time, but don’t forget, you can also order things from their website and have them deliver it.”
“Yes, I’ve had a lovely couple of days, thanks. Grandad and I couldn’t have done any of this without you, and I doubt we’d have even thought about it. Now we’re looking forward to finishing the project and really hope it’s done before you have to return to England.”
“I can assure you it will, Dario. I won’t be leaving until I see all those happy guests arriving.”
“Well, in that case, I hope it’s not finished because that means you won’t leave! I’m going to miss you, Gemma. I’d love to prove to you that I’m a good man, but more importantly, I want to be able to take care of you.”
The journey home seemed to fly by. Gemma knew it would because she didn’t want it to end. She didn’t reply to Dario’s comments, and he didn’t push the subject. Instead they talked about the apartments and how they were going to market them. Would they wait for next season or try to get things moving for late September / early October? But would there be enough holidaymakers for the winter season? This was something Pablo and Dario needed to discuss.
Nearly seven o’clock and they were close to Graingcia. Gemma had texted Dulcie to ask whether they had any plans for the evening or did they need to get any shopping on the way back. Apparently, Rupert was trying to teach Craig how to use the barbecue, which Dulcie found quite amusing being that he wasn’t used to preparing food. Gemma was in two minds about how to leave things with Dario. As he dropped her off at the villa she really wanted to give him a hug and tell him that she was fine about Mateo, but she thought it best to bring the conversation back to Pablo.
“Thanks for a really nice time, Dario. I was thinking, it would be nice to finish off the rooms, or at least one of them, as a surprise for your Grandad. See his reaction when he sees it finished. What do you think?”
“That’s a great idea. We could do that when the beds arrive, but it would be even better once we have the chairs too. Give me a few days to figure out how it would all work out, as it’s not going to be easy keeping him away. What a brilliant idea! You’re not only clever, but so thoughtful too, and that’s why…”
“That’s why we won’t say any more – apart from it’s been a lovely two days. Goodnight!”
Gemma watched as Dario dro
ve off, and then opened the gate to the villa. With Rupert barbecuing, she knew he would be on fine form, ready to entertain and be the life and soul of the party. That was exactly what she needed – something to take her mind off Dario.
“Hi, you two. What have I missed? Hope you’ve both been behaving yourself and not been round to visit Dorothy and Sid.”
“Ah, Gemma! Welcome back! After dinner you must tell us all about your trip, but first – look, I’m doing a bit of educating. I’m teaching Craig how to barbecue. Would you mind preparing the food for me, please?”
Gemma could see from Dulcie’s face that she was finding it difficult not to laugh. What would he ever barbecue if she wasn’t there to prepare things? It was nice to be home, and thinking about it, she now knew she considered Spain and not just the villa as her home as from what Dario had implied, he wanted to make it her forever home….
Chapter 29
The next couple of days were a bit like a game of cat and mouse – Gemma being the mouse trying to avoid Craig, the cat. She tried hard to distance herself from him, knowing that it was his last full day at the villa. He would be travelling back to England the next day, and not due to return until collecting Rupert in a few months’ time, although after that they would undoubtedly see each other more often.
One thing Gemma had noticed was that while Craig had stayed at the villa, both Dulcie and Rupert had grown increasingly fond of him. They loved his company, mothered him and had a subtle way of dropping things they wanted him to take on board into conversations. It seemed to be a successful tactic, and Gemma wondered whether she should adopt it too, as he needed to understand that although things were definitely over between him and Claire, moving on in life was not going to include Gemma.
However, this morning wasn’t the right time for any such conversation. They were all up early to catch the bus to Ceola for a day out. Rupert had booked a table in a restaurant overlooking the marina, one of his favourite places since they had arrived in Spain. Gemma realised that the reason they were going by bus was that Rupert had decided it would be a good idea for Craig and Dario not to meet again. He hadn’t said so exactly, but Gemma knew that Rupert wasn’t a fan of public transport and so there must have been a very good reason for him to wish to travel by bus now.
“Have you noticed how much cooler it is here compared to Graingcia? I think every time we come here there’s a lovely breeze, which is a huge relief for an old woman like me?”
“Old woman, Dulcie? I’ll hear none of that kind of talk. We’re fabulously glamorous. You can be old and decrepit when we’re home.”
They all laughed, but that was exactly the case for Rupert. He could spend the week resting and relaxing at the villa, but once out, especially in a restaurant, it turned into showtime and the years magically dropped off of him as though he was back in his thirties. They had a little stroll around the marina looking at all the superyachts and cruisers, before walking over to the restaurant where Gemma knew they’d get a warm welcome. The staff knew that Rupert would leave a substantial tip. It was a practice he loved doing as he always made it clear that going out for a meal was more than just the food, it was also about the service and the atmosphere.
As they got to the door, Gemma knew the routine to follow. The restaurant manager would greet them and the best table would be ready and waiting for them. The waiters would pull out their chairs and make them comfortable, smiling profusely and saying how nice it was to see them again. At first Gemma had found the attention rather embarrassing, but now she realised it was part of a game. The staff did like Dulcie and Rupert, and when he started joking and camping it up, they all found it extremely amusing. It wasn’t the type of eatery Gemma would have dreamed of going to, given the choice, but she did enjoy being out with Rupert.
An occasion like this proved just how much Dulcie and Rupert knew each other inside out. She knew her place, allowing Rupert to be the centre of attention, while enjoying the joviality as well as the delicious food.
Craig also seemed very relaxed as he had settled into the routine of going out to eat at fine restaurants and enjoying Rupert taking centre stage. He had even started to repeat some of Rupert’s well-rehearsed lines. ‘Showtime, girls, tits and teeth, give the audience what they want’, being his favourite and likely to be used today.
“So, that’s the food ordered. Now are we all having wine or would you like something else?”
They all agreed wine would be fine and as usual Rupert tasted it before the waiter poured everyone else’s. Dulcie always remarked that he couldn’t tell the difference between a two Euro bottle of plonk or a two hundred Euro vintage wine. Gemma looked out over the marina and could quite understand why they loved coming here. The view, with the boats and the people milling around, was spectacular.
“So young man, have you had a nice holiday with us? We’ll gloss over the unfortunate party Dulcie which made us go to?”
“Me, Rupert? You can’t pin that on me, Rupert. They were your friends, not mine. I expect poor Craig will bear the emotional scars for the rest of his life, and as for those bruises…”
“I’ve had a wonderful holiday, thanks, and even the party wasn’t that bad. In fact, it was quite funny, apart from the next day when I felt rough.”
“Good. We’re so pleased you’ve enjoyed yourself. Hopefully it’s given you time to think and clear your head a bit. Now you’ll be able to start a new life, a happier one where you don’t have to work so hard. You know you’re always welcome back here at any time. All you need to do is just check with us first that the guest room’s free. You wouldn’t like to be here at the same time as Janice, although touch wood, she hasn’t mentioned coming back for another holiday.”
“That’s my daughter you’re talking about, Rupert, although I have to say you’re quite right. Fingers crossed, whenever she does return she’ll be on her best behaviour. I’m looking forward to having my grandson, Jamie, coming over soon though. It’s only for a long weekend, but it’s always lovely to see him.”
“I didn’t realise Jamie was coming; perhaps we should tell Maria so she can let Rosa know.”
“Oh, yes, that reminds me. Jamie will need to get some work done while he’s here. Could you make sure there’s enough printer paper and everything else he might need beforehand, Gemma, dear?”
“It’s a shame he has to work, Dulcie, but hopefully he’ll still have time to relax in the sunshine.”
“I’m sure he will. He’s only looking into something for Rupert and me, and it shouldn’t take him long.”
Rupert quickly changed the subject, the food had arrived and as usual it looked delicious. The restaurant was starting to get busy. It was an expensive hotel, which didn’t appeal to the locals as it served a range of national cuisines. The clientele were mainly boat owners from the marina, so rather upmarket with a distinctive multicultural vibe.
The empty main course plates had been cleared and Rupert had asked for a break before dessert. Gemma knew exactly what that meant. A trip to the Gents, but taking the longest possible route around the other diners. He’d smile at everyone, and hope that someone would respond so he could start up a conversation. This whole rigmarole could take up to 30 minutes. Poor diners, they didn’t have a clue what they were letting themselves in for, and more often than not Dulcie would have to go and find Rupert with some silly excuse. Today was no exception, and as she went to fetch Rupert back to the table, Gemma was left with the perfect opportunity to speak to Craig in private.
“Have you really had a good time, Craig? Somehow I get the feeling that you don’t want to go home tomorrow.”
“Yes and no, Gemma. I’ll miss being here in Graingcia, with its lovely restaurants and of course the villa, but I know I need to go back to speak to Claire about sorting everything out officially. I also want a change of career, not that I don’t like working for Paul as he’s been good to me, but who wants to be a taxi driver for all their working life? It’s a scary prospect. Right
now I want more of a challenge. I need a job where I can use my brain a bit more, if you know what I mean.”
“I do, it’s something my parents say to me all the time. Okay, I’m having a fabulous time out here, but it’s a shopping, cooking and cleaning job at the end of the day. I’m having fun at the moment and it’s fine for the time being, but who knows? When I get back to England I might think differently about it all. I’ll just have to wait and see.”
“I’ve had a bit of time to think about the kiss too, Gemma. It was lovely at the time and I did want more, but on reflection I don’t think it’s a wise idea to go from one relationship straight into another. I need time alone to sort myself out before I even think about sharing myself with anyone else. Some of the things which Rupert and Dulcie have said these last two weeks have made me take stock of my life a bit more, but I am looking forward to us both being back in England. It would be lovely if we could have the same kind of friendship as Rupert and Dulcie have. They feel so comfortable with each other, it’s very special, and that’s exactly what I want.”
“I’ve learnt so much from them as well, and I can’t believe how much like family they are. I’ll always treasure my friendship with them and it’s something I really don’t want to lose. Whatever I do in life, I’d love them to play a huge part in it, and I also feel I have a responsibility to make things as easy as possible as they get older.”
“I understand that, but, Gemma, that kiss was more than special to me. I think it was the first time I’ve ever experienced such emotion in one brief encounter. Thank you, Gemma.”
Chapter 30
It had been a few days since Craig had left and the three of them were back into their old routine. Gemma could tell Rupert and Dulcie were missing him, but they also looked tired. They’d had a busy week socialising and being out and about in both Graingcia and Roncia, and it had all clearly taken its toll on them. Early nights, late mornings and relaxing in the sunshine were now the order of the day. After all, lazy days relaxing in a warm climate were one of the main reasons for coming to Spain.