by Ian Wilfred
Today there was going to be a change in routine as Jamie was coming to stay for two nights. Dulcie was over the moon with excitement to have her grandson visit, but of course this wasn’t a holiday for him. He was going to meet with the local authority to learn more about the regulations surrounding the old house behind the villa. Pablo had said that the authorities located 20km either side of Graingcia weren’t interested in derelict buildings, but their local one was. He advised Jamie that the best course of action would be to just agree with everything and then there wouldn’t be any hassle. The one good thing was that they were in a financial position to get the work done.
While Gemma waited for everyone to get up, she planned a little game for Mateo. All the words she had taught him were names of objects, so he had got them all together on the terrace to see if he remembered the words for them.
Mateo was first up, which meant Maya didn’t have to get up so early as she knew someone would be looking out for him. Dario had suggested that he and Gemma take Mateo out for the day, leaving Maya to have a day by the pool, and Dulcie and Rupert time to spend with Jamie.
When Dario arrived. Gemma and Mateo were playing the game with the objects and words. Rupert and Dulcie had just got up so Gemma left them all to get the breakfast ready. When she finally got to sit down, Mateo and Dario were whispering and laughing. Rupert said to Gemma that he hoped she was ready for this.
“Ready for what?”
More laughter ensued and then Dario explained that Mateo wanted to teach Gemma the Spanish words for each item. This wasn’t going to be easy. Yes, she could repeat them, but remembering them was another matter, but it kept them occupied for an hour and enabled them all to bond better.
Now ready to go to the beach in Ceola, Dario explained that it would be busy but hopefully there would be plenty of family activities. Gemma flinched at the word ‘family’ but Dario didn’t pick up on it. She had packed a picnic and they had decided to go to the chicken restaurant in the early evening.
“Have a lovely time, the three of you. Not too many ice creams or you’ll end up with a tummy like Rupert’s.”
Dario translated that to Mateo who then ran and poked Rupert in the stomach. More laughter, and then they were off. Dario had said how excited he was, and Mateo was pleased Gemma was coming with them, but she felt strangely nervous and wasn’t sure why.
They found a parking spot and then walked towards the beach with their things. Gemma could hardly believe the amount of stuff that was needed when you had a child in tow. Finally they spread their blankets on the beach and unpacked all their things. Mateo wouldn’t let his father put sun cream on him. He wanted Gemma to do it, and from then on it was non-stop playing, making sandcastles, digging a hole to bury Dario in. All of this was far different to Gemma’s normal days out on the beach, but she was enjoying it and the picnic was a success.
Dario asked if anyone wanted an ice cream and suggested that he and Mateo could go and get them, but no, he preferred to stay with Gemma and there was no persuading him otherwise. This was the reason Gemma was nervous. It was the first time she’d be in sole charge of Mateo and as they didn’t speak each other’s language, she was anxious about what would happen if she couldn’t understand what he needed.
Dario spoke to Mateo in Spanish, telling him to behave himself and off he went to get the ice creams. Gemma looked in Mateo’s bag of toys and found a bag of plastic bricks. This was perfect! They could build something with the sand and bricks. Mateo was excited, handing Gemma bricks to build with. They used their buckets to go down to the shore and collect water and then used it to top up their brick building. It looked just like two swimming pools. By the time Dario got back they had nearly finished it and he was so impressed that after eating the ice creams, they set about making a connecting building. At one point Gemma said to Dario that she wasn’t sure who was the most excited and got more pleasure from doing it, them or Mateo. It had been a lovely day on the beach, although so different from any day Gemma had ever had before. Why had she been so worried?
As they drove up to Roncia for a walk and to have dinner, Gemma felt bad. It was now six o’clock and she hadn’t phoned Dulcie to check that Jamie had arrived safely. Dario kept telling her to stop worrying. If anything was wrong, they would have called.
“Hi, Dulcie. I’m so sorry. I did mean to phone earlier to check Jamie got here okay…. That’s good and he’s met with the authorities? Were they alright? Good. So you’re off down to the town with Jamie for something to eat? Why not? Do you want me to come back and cook something? Are you sure? Is it difficult to talk at the moment? Okay, I’ll let you go.”
Gemma came off the phone and told Dario everything that Dulcie had said and that they were just going to have a frozen pizza, but he just told her to stop worrying about them. They found a parking space and walked the short distance to El Pollo. Mateo was excited. He’d been coming here for years and loved the place as much as everyone else as the staff always made a fuss over him, which he really enjoyed. It was a lovely end to the day, but they both could tell he was getting tired as it was now gone nine o’clock and he’d been on the go since before eight in the morning. No sooner had they got in the car than he was asleep. Gemma and Dario couldn’t help smiling at each other. They didn’t need to say anything because they were both thinking the same thing. The day had been a major success.
“Dario, can we do it again tomorrow? Then the next day and the day after that, please?”
He looked at her with tears in his eyes that spoke a thousand words. Once back at the villa he carried a sleeping little boy out of the car and into the bedroom, while Gemma fetched all the bags. She waved to Dulcie and Rupert who were on the top terrace, dumped the bags inside the villa door and headed over to see them.
“Hello, dear. You’ve got one very tired child there by the look of it. Did you have a lovely day on the beach?”
“Dulcie, we’ve had a lovely day, actually an incredibly special one that I’ll remember and cherish for ever. Now can I get either of you anything? A drink or something to eat?”
“We’re fine, dear. You sort yourself out and once Dario’s tucked Mateo into bed the four of us could have drink together.”
Gemma looked at Dulcie and Rupert. Where was Jamie? Come to that, where was Maya? Before she had time to ask them. Rupert intervened.
“Just to let you know that our other two visitors hit it off very well today. So much so that Jamie asked Dulcie if she minded whether he and Maya went out for dinner together. What could she say? Somehow I think it could be late or even an early morning when they get back. So I’m not sure what’s best for Mateo. Do you think Dario should stay the night, Gemma?”
Chapter 51
14 Months Later
“You’re up early, Rupert. Your birthday’s not for a few days yet. Surely the excitement isn’t kicking in this early, is it? I’ve brought you a cup of tea.”
“Morning. Gemma. No, it’s nothing to do with the birthday celebrations, although I’m really looking forward to my party. No, I’ve just been reflecting on things. I can’t believe I’m going to be seventy-five as I still feel as if I’m in my forties. I just wish I had the energy I did then. But saying that I’m a lot better here in the sunshine than I would be back in England. If I pace myself I can cope with everything. Are you joining me for tea? You’ve been a bit quiet these last few days. I hope there’s nothing wrong.”
“I’m fine thanks. Like you, I’ve also been spending time thinking, but on a positive note. I suppose I never thought I could be this happy. How life has changed since I met you and Dulcie.”
“But we can say the same thing too. I’m sure if you hadn’t encouraged us to enjoy our money and escape the British winter weather, we wouldn’t be here. Those first few months were rather hectic – all the problems with Janice, you saving Pablo’s business, not to mention poor Craig, and look at him now, so happy with Jodie. I’m looking forward to them coming over for the birthday party
tomorrow and hearing all about his new job and their new flat. Oh, and of course, Janice will also be here, but happier now than she was when she first came. She still drinks, but nothing like the amount she used to. I’m so proud, and I know Dulcie is too, that the half dozen or so times she’s been here since she might go out once or twice, but she’s never come back in a drunken state.”
“She’s also been very helpful around the villa, not doing things to impress us, but because she wants to, which is nice. We don’t have that unpleasant atmosphere with her anymore. Like I said, all those months ago, we just had to give her time.”
“Yes, you did. I know everybody’s life has changed, but yours, Gemma, has changed the most. The happiness on your face is there twenty-four-seven.”
“I know! Who’d have thought I’d find myself a fella, and a good one at that. I’m so lucky you’re renting Dario and me the old house. It’s gorgeous and I only have to walk a few yards to work.”
“There really was no question about the old house. Once we knew we had to renovate it, I said it had to be for you, and that was before you even got together with Dario. We couldn’t live here with such ease if you weren’t here caring for us. Without you, life would be so difficult. I know Janice takes over quite a bit of the cooking when she’s here, which is good. It’s almost like she’s paying Dulcie back for all the trouble she’s caused over the years and that’s good for them both, but I have to say that one of the biggest joys about living here – apart from the weather, of course – is having little Mateo running around keeping us young. I suspect you’d never dream that becoming a mum to a child was ever on the cards when you landed at Almeria airport the first day did you?”
“No, not in the slightest, and every day I wonder when the bubble’s going to burst. I knew after that first holiday together that Mateo liked me, we got on so well, and then when we first moved into the old house and he came for long weekends and holidays it was the perfect answer. He had to be with Dario permanently, as he needed that stability, but, you know, Rupert, Dario would never have asked if that could happen. I was the one who said it would be best, and now look at him! His English is so good, he loves school and all his new friends. It’s been six months since he moved in permanently. He loves being around you and Dulcie, and we’re very blessed to have such a happy little boy around. Life could have turned out so different for him.”
“It helped that Maya was alright with everything, and he’s adapted to only seeing her every few months. It doesn’t seem to bother him at all, which I do find a little strange, but then I’m old. What do I know?”
“It’s also good that she’s happy although I do think it was a bit of a shock when she gave up Spain to move to England with Jamie. They have so much in common, ambition to start with, which is great. Dario and I prefer a quieter life, he still loves his taxi driving and coming home to Mateo and me, and has no desire to even leave Graingcia for a holiday, but I’m happy with that now that my parents are spending more time here. I don’t want to leave Graingcia either.”
“Talking of Mateo, there he is playing with Maria’s sweeping brush. It does make me laugh how he hides it every day, and she pretends not to find it even though he puts it in the same place. Yes, we’ve all taken to him in such a big way.”
With the little game with Maria’s brush over, Dario took Mateo to school, leaving Gemma to get on with all her chores. She had quite a lot to do before visitors were arriving. Her old room was now ready for Janice who had left most of her summer clothes there – a good thing as having her own room at the villa almost certainly contributed to her improved behaviour. Jamie and Maya would be in the guest room and that left the office for Craig and Jodie. The rooms just needed a quick dusting before they all arrived, but for today the main job was to do a full shop. Dario was coming back in an hour to take her, but first breakfast for Dulcie and Rupert and see whether they needed to put anything else on the shopping list.
Breakfast and shopping list complete, Gemma got ready for the day ahead. Dario had sent a text to say that he’d be an hour or so later than arranged as he had a couple of taxi runs to do. From the window of her room in the old house, she could see the sea. It had made such a difference taking the fence down and putting a new one behind the house. She could also see the villa and whether Rupert and Dulcie were around, which was convenient if she was having to look after Mateo. Everything had worked well during the six months he’d been there, and he particularly loved having his own bedroom for all his toys.
Gemma was daydreaming, which was quite unusual for her as she normally had plenty of things to do. The open plan living room, diner and kitchen was her favourite place, not that they ate there very often. Most of their meals were eaten either outside on the terrace or over with Dulcie and Rupert, which was how Spanish families tended to live, with the three generations eating together, but the thing she loved most of all was the simplicity of the house. White walls, minimalist design with just a few splashes of colour here and there. She picked up a few of Mateo’s toys which had been left out, when in walked Dario.
“Hi, I’m back sooner than I expected. One of the customers cancelled.”
“I’ll just get my things and put these toys back in Mateo’s room. Give me a minute. Oh, why are you following me, I said I wouldn’t be a minute.”
“I thought that seeing that we’ve got some time to spare… you weren’t expecting me back yet, and Mateo’s at school, we could…”
“I’m not sure what you mean.”
Gemma knew exactly what Dario meant, and an hour later they emerged from the bedroom with smiles on their faces and feeling more than happy.
“You didn’t need much encouraging!”
“It’s those eyes, Dario. They do it for me every time! I love you so much, and can’t imagine being any happier than I am now.”
“I’m so lucky to have you in my life, Gemma. I really can’t put into words how I feel.”
“If that’s the case, and you’ve nothing else to say, we can go shopping. You can push the trolley and think about what else you may have to say.”
They were like two giggling teenagers. It had been 14 months since they had become a couple and they were still so in love. Dario was so caring towards Gemma; his only aim in life was to make sure she was happy. How couldn’t she be when he was in her life? Today though, wasn’t a day for too much fun. Once back at the villa, with the shopping put away, it was time for a light lunch with Rupert and Dulcie to go over the agenda for the next few days.
“That omelette was lovely, thanks, dear. Now, have you got your list, Rupert? We’ll go through everything from when our guests arrive until they leave.”
“Gemma explained that all the bedrooms were ready, the alcohol cupboard was full, both fridges were jammed packed and the freezer was at bursting point, so no one would go hungry or thirsty. Everyone was arriving at different times, so Gemma would be on hand to make them something to eat, and the evening would be dedicated to Rupert’s barbecue. Odd that it was still described as Rupert’s barbecue, even though Dario had been doing the cooking for well over a year, and Mateo was his little helper, fetching and carrying things, Gemma thought.
“So that’s tomorrow planned, and the following day will be my birthday. The restaurant’s organised. I popped up to Roncia last week on the bus and showed them how I wanted the table laid out, gave them the final numbers and went over the food we’d like.”
“Do you remember our first visit there? Poor Craig was so out of his depth. He couldn’t get over how posh it was, but now he walks in just as if he owns the place, picks the wine for each course, and feels at home. Oh, how he’s changed.”
“Yes, we’ve all changed, especially Rupert who changes his clothes four or five times a day.”
“Very funny, Dulcie. This is not the time for jokes, I’m being serious. It’s my birthday week I’m talking about now, so concentrate, the pair of you. We’ll have drinks here before we go up to Roncia. Oh, by t
he way, my surprise cake’s ordered, so all you have to remember is it will come out with the champagne after dessert.”
“How can it be a surprise for you if you’ve organised it?”
“Never mind. I’ll feign surprise and look happy. After you’ve all sung ‘Happy Birthday’ and had coffee and liquors, we’ll come back here for the rest of the evening.”
Dulcie teased him again, asking if he’d told people what gifts to buy him for his birthday. Rupert frowned at her, but ignored the comment. Whatever gifts he had, he’d be more than happy with. The following day, Saturday, would be very quiet. Hopefully, everyone would relax by the pool, eat snacks and enjoy themselves in the pool, with a buffet arranged for the evening. Then, Sunday, the final day before everyone leaves, was the day that Gemma and Dulcie had lied to Rupert about what was happening. He thought he was going to be hosting another barbecue, but they had other ideas. This was going to be an evening like no other.
“So, all sorted. Now, what would you both like for dinner tonight? I’d think an early night was on the cards after all you’ve planned.”
“I don’t mind, dear, but you choose, Rupert. It’s your birthday weekend after all. How would you like the festivities to kick off?”
“Do you know what? I fancy some chicken, and there’s only one place for that! Roncia! But before that, a few drinks in the bar. I suppose you could get that young man to baby sit, so you can come with us, Gemma.”
Gemma didn’t need asking twice. A quick call to Dario, and everything was organised. They decided to go out early, so it wouldn’t turn into a late night. None of them wanted to be tired tomorrow when the visitors arrived. It was agreed that they would go up to Roncia on the bus and then get a taxi back.