Leaving her shoulder-length hair loose, Charley pinned a side lock back with a white flower-adorned pin before stepping back to survey her reflection critically.
Soft pink lipstick, a swipe of mascara, a trace of eye shadow. No need to apply blush to her already pink-tinted cheeks, the warmth of summer had done that naturally. A little pair of imitation pearl earrings and matching imitation pearl necklace and bracelet finished off the jewellery.
Giving herself a last spritz of perfume, she took a deep breath as the doorbell rang. Draping the shawl around her shoulders, she picked up the white satin clutch, slid into the white high heels and strode down the corridor to the front door.
Swinging open the door, she smiled at the fair-haired man standing on the other side. “Hi.”
Gary started to smile. “You look lovely…” His voice trailed away as he took in her gown.
Uh-oh.
“Yellow?” he asked.
“I found it today, isn’t it lovely?”
“A little bright, isn’t it?”
Quickly stepping out, forcing him to back pedal or be trodden on, she shut and locked the door. “Lucky, as it’s the only decent gown I’ve got for fancy dinners.” Smiling brightly, she waited.
Yep, there was no way for him to ask her to change now.
The disapproval was plain in his eyes before he shuttered it away, kissed her on the cheek and took her elbow with that ever-present polite smile. “The white tones it down a bit.”
“It does go well together, doesn’t it?”
“Yes.” Without another word, he steered her over to the Mercedes Benz he prized so much, sitting her in the passenger seat with his usual politeness before going around to slide elegantly behind the steering wheel.
As the expensive car pulled onto the road and headed for their destination, Charley cast a sideways glance at Gary, wondering for the hundredth time why he chose to date her. They didn’t move in the same circles, yet he seemed drawn to her. No doubt about it, she was flattered that a man of his ilk was attracted to her, but sometimes she wondered because in the short time they’d been dating, he’d rarely done more than kiss her cheek. Certainly never held her with anything like passion. Heck, he’d never gone further than seeing her to her front door. So why? She never asked, though, that would be crass, plus he’d see it as fishing for compliments. Heck, she wasn’t that far down in confidence that she’d go fishing for compliments.
Besides, it wasn’t as though she wasn’t worth dating.
“So,” she sought to break the silence, “where exactly is this dinner?”
“The Balaside Restaurant.”
“Wow, swanky.”
“It is high class, yes.” He slowed the car, checked the traffic before pulling onto the main road.
“So I gather your boss is going to be there?”
“I’m in line for partnership,” Gary replied.
“So that’d be a ‘yes’?”
He cast her a sidelong glance. “Of course.”
Feeling stupid, Charley cleared her throat and tried again. “Is it a big gathering? You know, a lot of partners?”
“There are three partners and their wives.” He hesitated.
Obviously he wanted to say something further but didn’t quite know how to broach it. Curiously, she watched his profile while smoothing her hand over the little satin clutch in her lap.
“I know you’re not used to these high class places,” Gary began carefully.
She gave a small laugh. “You got that right!”
He actually winced, which dried her laughter right up. A horrible feeling crept through her and she bit her lip. Oh no, did he think she’d embarrass him? They hadn’t been going out together for long, but this was the first time he’d brought her to an important gathering. “Gary, I’m not a complete idiot. I do know how to act in company.”
“Of course you do,” he said. Reaching out, he gave her hand a quick squeeze followed by a reassuring smile. “I never doubted it.”
“Really? Because you seem a little…I don’t know. Mortified?”
“Darling, you’re being ridiculous.” He laughed softly. “Are you, perhaps, feeling a little inadequate? Overwhelmed?”
“A little nervous, yes, but-”
“You’ll be fine. The wives will be there, I’m sure you’ll have a lovely chat.” He winked, his handsome face amused. “Just don’t discuss the day-to-day affairs of the nursing home.”
“I wouldn’t anyway,” she replied stiffly. “That’s confidential.”
“Good. Take your cue from them, just be careful what you say and the evening will be fine.” He reached out, flicked a switch on the radio, classical music quietly filling the car. “Now relax. We’ll be there soon.”
Folding her arms, Charley turned her head to watch the buildings flash past the window. Damn, is it me that lacks confidence? Am I looking for spooks where there aren’t any? Maybe I am feeling out of my depth.
With a sigh, she fiddled with the clutch, already wishing the evening was over. Right now, she’d much prefer to be curled up with a movie and a bowl of popcorn than be dressed in a gown which clearly didn’t suit Gary’s taste, and wondering what the evening held.
Think of it as an experience, Charley.
All too soon, the car pulled into the parking lot of the restaurant. The parking bay was full of expensive cars, while taxis lined up not far away.
Charley reached for the door handle, only to stop when she felt Gary’s gaze on her. Removing her hand, she waited as he got out, walked around the car and opened the door, sliding his hand beneath her elbow to assist her from the car.
Grinning, she said, “I’m more used to helping others to stand.”
“Not when you’re with me,” he replied smoothly. “Or in the company of my friends.”
It should have sounded reassuring and loving, yet somehow came out more an order.
Geez, Charley, get a grip and stop looking for the dark clouds! She linked her hand through the crook of his elbow as he beeped the locks. “Ever the gentleman.”
His smile this time was definitely approving.
With the self assuredness of a man used to such surroundings, he led her up the stairs and into the restaurant, stopping at the Maitre de’s little podium to give his name.
Impressed by the elegant richness of the surroundings, feeling decidedly out of her depth, Charley looked around. The local pub or ‘every day’ restaurant was more her style, the high class of this one was way beyond her experience.
The Maitre de led them to a large table in the middle of the room where six people already sat with two chairs left empty. As he seated them, she smiled at the occupants. Unfortunately, she was so busy trying to appear as though she did this every day that she jumped when the Maitre de suddenly appeared beside her to flip the napkin across her lap.
“Oh, sh- geez! I mean, thanks.”
“My pleasure, Madam.” He inclined his head.
Charley glanced at Gary, who stated smoothly, “This is Charlotte. Charlotte, this is my boss, Willard Lackey and his wife, Jessica.”
“Pleased to meet you, Charlotte.” Willard nodded to her.
“Pleasure,” Jessica added.
“Oh, please call me Charley. Everyone does.”
“Charley,” Jessica echoed. “How quaint.”
“Oh, not really,” Charley returned cheerfully. “Dad always wanted a son, so when I was born he wanted to still call me Charley. Mum insisted on Charlotte as a way of meeting in the middle, so to speak.” She winked. “Luckily Dad didn’t mind having another girl after all, or I’d probably have had to have a sex change!”
That went down like a lead balloon. Everyone stared at her.
“I see,” Jessica said a little frostily.
Uh oh. A glance sideways at Gary and the horrible feeling that had started to creep over her just went hotter. He did not look pleased, in fact, his lips were a little tight, his slight smile a little stiff.
Bugger, she’d just embarrassed him.
Seeking to quickly make amends, she smiled at Jessica. “What a lovely pair of earrings.”
“Thank you.”
“Yes, well, let me introduce you to the rest of the group,” Willard said.
As he proceeded to do so, Charley sank back a little in her chair, determined to appear cool and classy while knowing she’d probably blown that boat right out of the water. But the evening was young, she was sure if she kept her mouth shut and concentrated, she could regain lost ground.
Skye and Robert Matlock smiled politely and nodded, but Marilyn Bayer’s eyes twinkled with humour while her husband, Geoff, winked at Charley, immediately putting her at ease a little.
The head waiter appeared beside Gary, who ordered wine for both of them. Charley inwardly grimaced, not liking wine in general, a little annoyed that he’d order it when he knew she didn’t like wine. Still, she resolved to be pleasant.
Didn’t stop her leaning forward to add pleasantly, “And could I please have a glass of water?”
“Of course, Madam.” The waiter smiled at her.
At least she’d be able to have a mouthful of water between every other mouthful of wine she’d have to choke down.
Willard turned his gaze to her. “I hear you’re in the medical profession, Charley.”
“Yes. I’m a nurse.”
“Admirable. Very admirable.”
“I hear you’re quite high up the chain,” Robert added.
She blinked. “Oh, I wouldn’t say that.”
“Of course, you would be modest, darling.” Gary laughed softly, reached out to give her hand a fond squeeze.
“Aren’t we all?” Skye laughed. “Take Robert. Just the other day we were at a party and he told someone he worked for a law firm. Worked!”
“Couldn’t very well tell them all I was a partner in a very prestigious law firm.” Robert spread his hands. “They’d think I was bragging. Not very professional.”
“Don’t worry, I told them, dear.”
“I’m sure you did.”
Oh yeah, there was no doubt from the way the Matlocks looked at each other that that particular little manoeuvrer was very well practiced. He appeared modest, she appeared proud.
Charley mentally pulled a face.
“I’m sure they were all very impressed.” Marilyn took a sip of wine.
Skye sent her a sidelong glance. “Very.”
Hmmm, maybe there was no love lost between those two. Charley peeked at Jessica, who was watching with veiled eyes. Hard to tell about her just yet.
“So, what department do you work in, Charley?” Geoff queried. “Managerial?”
“No. I-”
“She oversees the other nursing staff,” Gary interrupted smoothly.
“Nurse Manager kind of thing?” Geoff swirled the wine in his glass.
“CEO?” Willard added.
“A little young for CEO,” Jessica murmured.
Charley smiled. “Nothing like that, I assure you. I’m a hands-on nurse.”
“So a Clinical Nurse,” Marilyn announced. “How lovely.”
Before Charley could correct her, Gary again intercepted. “Let’s just say that dealing with other health professionals and clients can be challenging.” He turned his head to smile at Charley, but there was no doubting the warning glint in his eyes. “Isn’t that right, darling?”
He was deliberately giving everyone the impression that she was higher up the food chain to impress them, and then had the gall to warn her silently to keep her tongue behind her teeth.
Not wanting to cause a scene, so acutely aware that he was trying to impress his boss and the partners, Charley murmured, “Not everything is as it seems,” before taking a fortifying mouthful of wine.
The distaste that shuddered through her at the taste was enough to push her annoyance away for a brief moment. Not to mention the hurt that he would deliberately make her job out to be more than it was - and there was nothing wrong with it, anyway.
About to replace the glass back on the table, Charley caught Jessica’s calculating gaze.
Approvingly, Jessica murmured, “Managerial, of course. Most appropriate for our Gary.” She turned to Willard, “Isn’t it, dear?”
Charley tossed the rest of the wine down her throat before she could comment on how worthwhile her job was. But man, Gary was going to get it when they got back to the car alone.
The conversation turned to work for the men, while the women chatted about their charities, holidays and politely pried into Charley’s life. No doubt they were trying to see if she was an ideal fit for a possible future younger partner’s social set. Aka Gary’s wife, maybe.
“I don’t do charities,” Charley replied bluntly. “I just donate.”
“Admirable.” Marilyn sighed. “It can get so tedious at times.”
“It’s good to be seen,” Jessica objected. “Supporting charities is worthwhile.”
“And having a law firm known to charities can bring in high-end clients,” Skye added.
Marilyn rolled her eyes.
“What charities do you donate to, Charley?” Jessica queried.
“The local animal shelters.”
“Local?”
“Yes. I like my money to stay local.” Charley steadily met the curious eyes of the listening women. “Giving money to big charities is great, but the animal shelters need so much help and are often struggling with unwanted animals. These are local people, local animals. I want to see where my money goes.”
“Oh, my dear.” Skye looked at her almost pityingly. “As you move higher up the rungs of society, you’ll need to be seen to be doing more than local.”
“Exactly.” Jessica nodded.
“Mind you,” Marilyn mused, “local charities can be seen as supporting our own, giving to a cause that touches everyone. Winning over the locals.” She smiled widely. “I like it.”
“You would,” Jessica said.
“I don’t care about winning over anyone,” Charley replied bluntly. “Only about seeing that animals get the care they need, while the people looking after them get the support they need.”
No doubt hearing the edge in her tone, Gary gave her a leg a nudge with his foot.
She’d give him a nudge right back in a minute. Right up his arse.
Taking a deep breath, she donned a mask of interest. “So, Jessica, where do you work?”
Jessica blinked.
Marilyn gave a hoot of laughter. “Charley! That’s hilarious!”
Skye bit her lip but not in time to hide a fleeting smirk.
All four men looked at the women.
“Sounds like you’re having more fun than us,” Geoff commented.
“My job is to support my husband and do good for those less fortunate than ourselves.” The frost was definitely back in Jessica’s voice.
“Admirable,” Charley returned.
“It is.” Willard laid his hand on Jessica’s arm. “My wife is my number one supporter. She does all those little things guaranteed to keep me happy, while pursuing her own interests. That’s what makes a good wife, isn’t it, Gary?”
Everyone looked at him.
Charley arched one eyebrow.
Coolly, Gary smiled. “We all want a partner who will support us throughout life.”
The man was bloody good at weaselling out of a corner, no doubt about it.
“How sweet,” Charley said. “Support and honesty, it’s all important in a life partner.”
Gary nodded at her without one flicker of guilt before switching his attention to the waiter approaching with the menus.
It was almost a relief to grab a menu and hide behind it. Pretending to study it, Charley felt her annoyance starting to rise. Sure, Gary was ambitious, he was chasing a higher position, but she’d never dreamed he’d be happy to lead people on about her job. After all, they would be bound to find the truth out sooner or later, so what the hell was he playing at?
Taking a deep breath to simmer down the bubble of annoyance bordering on anger, she forced her concentration on the menu.
By the time the waiter came around, she’d managed to regain her cool. For the rest of the meal she managed to stay out of sticky patches, content to simply let everyone talk while she ate, giving the odd nod or shake of the head, a brief few words in reply when a question was asked.
She felt like everything was going pretty well, she’d managed to get through most of the evening without rocking the boat. That lasted right up until after dinner when everyone was sipping on cocktails while Charley drank a Diet Coke - she bloody well refused to give in when Gary tried to order a cocktail for her, giving him a warning kick to his leg because he knew full-well she hated cocktails - and Robert started telling a story about a well-to-do landowner who was trying to weasel out of a lease an elderly man had on a cottage.
“Honestly,” he said, “the fuss this old man is making, you’d think it was his land.”
“People think they have a right to everything,” Jessica agreed.
“He does,” Charley pointed out. “He has a lease.”
Willard shook his head. “Trying to find a loophole to get the leaser off the property isn’t going to be easy.”
“If it’s there, you’ll find it,” Gary said confidentially.
“Hardly fair, though,” Charley added, unable to simply sit and listen. “How long has this elderly man lived there?”
“Twenty years.”
“And how long was the lease for?”
“Twenty five.” Willard sighed. “The father of the current leaser agreed on it.”
“Then it should be honoured.”
Now she had everyone’s attention, including Gary’s, only his was accompanied by another discreet side kick.
Bugger that. Charley gave him a sharp kick back. Give the man his due, he didn’t flinch, but he did open his mouth and start, “Progress sometimes has to be made way for-”
“What’s it for?” she interrupted. “A highway? Shopping centre? Offices? School?”
Willard studied her face as though just seeing her. “The owner wants to build his home on that spot.”
“This client is rich.”
“Wealthy, yes.” There was a ring of challenge in the lawyer’s voice now.
“And just how many houses does he have?”
“That doesn’t matter.”
“So he does have other houses. Can’t he live in one of those houses for another five years rather than try to kick out a poor elderly man?”
Marilyn was grinning from ear to ear. “Now this is entertainment.”
“Charlotte,” Gary warned quietly. “This is the side of business you couldn’t possibly understand.” He turned to his boss. “Work talk. Sometimes it can go right over people’s heads. Maybe we should change the subject.”
“It’s not going over my head,” Charley said.
“Trust me, darling, it is.” His smile this time was all teeth, his eyes hard, before he again turned on the charm. “Did I tell you, Willard, that we won the Sampson vs. Fergus case?”
That appeared to appease Willard. His face brightened. “I hadn’t heard. Well done, Gary.”
Yeah, Charley thought sourly, well done, Gary.
She was also reminded that her boyfriend was trying to make a good impression on his boss and she was jeopardising it. Mad she might be, but destroying anyone’s career wasn’t on her to-do list. She just had to knuckle down, keep her mouth shut and it would be over soon.
Please God, let it be over soon.
Mercifully, the evening didn’t last much longer, but though Gary spoke pleasantly to everyone and was courteous to her, she felt his annoyance in the bite of his fingers on her upper arm as he helped her from her chair to guide her from the restaurant. When she tried to discreetly pull away, his fingers only bit harder.
Not wanting to cause a scene, she allowed him to lead her to the car, remaining silent except for wishing everyone a goodnight right before he solicitously held the car door open while she slid into the seat. Discreetly rubbing her upper arm where his fingers had bitten in, she waited while he exchanged a last few words with his boss before he got into the driver’s seat. He was still smiling pleasantly as they pulled out of the parking lot, but the smile disappeared as soon as they were on the road.
In fact, the chill coming from him could have caused frostbite.
Wondering if she should broach the subject or simply remain silent, Charley bit her bottom lip.
Gary who broke the silence coldly. “What the hell do you think you were doing?”
“I take it you mean my disagreeing with the lease rort?”
“It’s not a rort. The owner wishes his land back to build himself a home.”
“Your boss is trying to find a loophole to screw an old man from the last few years in his home.”
“It’s not the old man’s home. It belongs to the client.”
“It’s been leased for twenty five years by the current occupier. He’s only lived there for twenty of those twenty five, so he still has five years.”
“If the lease isn’t water-tight, if there’s a loophole, there may be a way to cancel the lease before the twenty five years.”
Charley stared at him. “Seriously?”
His gaze didn’t shift from the road, but his voice practically dripped icicles. “What?”
“You seriously don’t find anything wrong with that?”
“The law is the law.”
“The law you’re talking about is shifty!”
“If it’s a legal loophole, it’s not shifty.”
“Shifty, loophole, whatever, it doesn’t matter. It’s just wrong.”
“Don’t presume to know the legalities. You obviously know nothing of this particular subject.”
“I know morality.” Folding her arms, Charley scowled out the window at the passing street. “Maybe you need to learn it.”
“And just what is that supposed to mean?”
“Oh, I don’t know. Let me see. Oh, how about we start with the fact that you wanted your boss and his partners to think I’m higher up the medical career ladder than I am?”
“I never said you were,” he replied smoothly. “If they choose to think so…”
She cast him a disbelieving look. “You deliberately led them on!”
He remained silent, his expression stony.
“If you’re so ashamed to be dating a simple RN, Gary, why did you ask me out?”
“I’m starting to wonder that myself.”
A myriad of emotions tossed through Charley - hurt, anger, disbelief and confusion. “I’m not ashamed of you.”
“You have no reason to be.”
The conceit was astounding.
“Until tonight,” she amended.
He didn’t reply.
The rest of the journey passed in silence - cold on his side, awkwardly on hers. Humiliation was coursing through her, the sight of home and the sanctuary it offered was never so welcome.
Parking on the verge, he made no move to get out of the car to open her door. Apparently she didn’t deserve any more courtesy.
That suited her just fine. Charley got out, shut the door with deliberate firmness and strode up the pathway towards the veranda.
He didn’t wait to ensure she got there safely, simply pulled away with well-bred control and drove off into the night.
The sensor lights flashed on, illuminating the pathway which was already lit by the street light. Muttering to herself, Charley went up onto the veranda and made to pull the key from her clutch only to groan when she realised she’d left it in the car. Hoping that maybe she’d left a door unlocked - not likely - she hurried to check the back door only to find it securely locked. Returning to the front, she leaned back against the wall with another groan.
Locked out. She’d either have to call a locksmith or - ah crap, her mobile was in the house. She hadn’t bothered to take it because there was no need to take it on a date. Because she’d trusted Gary.
Stupidly, a lump rose in her throat. What a shitty - utterly shitty - evening. She sniffed. Great. Just great. Her date had ditched her, it was late, she was locked out of the house, her nose was running, and she didn’t have a tissue or a hanky.
Taking a deep breath, she wiped what suspiciously felt like a tear from her eye - I am not crying - and tried to think of what to do.
After a couple of dismayed seconds, it was clear. Nothing. There was nothing at all she could do unless she started knocking on the neighbourhood doors and asking to use the phones. A quick glance around showed every house in darkness, and why not? It was a working neighbourhood, it was late, everyone would be asleep.
Charley’s shoulders slumped at the realisation that her only real option was to sit on the swing chair and wait for Blue to return home. “How bloody pathetic.” Dispiritedly crossing to the swing chair, she dropped down onto it.
She was glumly contemplating her shoes when headlights swept down the quiet street and turned into the driveway. It wasn’t the motorcycle Blue had left on, so unless someone was giving him a lift home because he’d had some alcohol to drink, then she didn’t know who it could be. Then she caught sight of the Wells Security logo on the side of the black SUV and remembered that the house was monitored twenty four hours a day by Aaron’s security firm.
Okay, that was a little humiliating but also reassuring. At least someone cared.
Crossing to the edge of the veranda, she watched as the car door opened and a tall, broad-shouldered figure got out of the car and approached with a sure stride. The sensor light picked out the Wells Security uniform of navy blue pants and short-sleeved polo shirt with the security logo on the breast pocket. Black boots trod silently along the path as the patrol guard moved up to the veranda and came to a stop.
Charley found herself looking at a face that somehow seemed to be etched in shadows even though the sensor lights should have picked out every angle. There was no missing the darkly brooding air of the man, the subtle hint of danger that seemed to shift around him. The way he looked at her so blankly, the hint of cruelty that seemed settled on his lips, had her swallowing a little nervously.
“I’m Ryan,” he stated quietly.
“Charley,” she replied.
He came stealthily up the step onto the veranda.
“I - uh - I guess someone saw my predicament, huh?” She flapped a hand towards the camera.
“You’re locked out.”
“I left my clutch with my keys in my date’s car.”
“I’ll let you in.” Taking a small ring from his pocket, he started choosing a key.
“Wow.” Charley eyed the ring. “You have keys to all the houses you monitor?”
Ryan slid her a sideways glance as he unlocked the door.
“Sorry. I guess that’s confidential, huh?”
Rather than answer that, he pushed the door open and reached in to turn on the inside light before stepping back.
“Thank you.” Politely, she waited for him to leave.
Instead, Ryan just stood there holding the door open, his unwavering gaze locked onto her.
Crap on a stick, she felt like he was looking into her very soul. Probably found her lacking right now, seeing as how he’d had to come and unlock the door.
It dawned on her that he wasn’t going to leave until she was inside. Feeling stupid for not realising that he was going to see her safely inside as part of his job - though her actual safety wasn’t his job, was it? - Charley quickly slid inside past him.
Turning to thank him, she found him holding out two keys. Obediently, she put out her hand. As he placed them into her palm, he said, “Drop the keys off at the office as soon as you get your keys back.”
“Absolutely.” She nodded. “Thank you again.”
He shut the security screen. “Lock the doors.”
She obeyed, the security screen lock snicking reassuringly.
Ryan looked pointedly from the wooden door to her.
The tall, silent, dangerous guard might make her nerves jitter uneasily, but she was still grateful for his help. Placing her hand on the door handle, she smiled. “Thank you for coming to my rescue. I appreciate it.”
He inclined his head slightly, just the barest movement, but his gaze remained on her and she took the hint, closing the wooden door and flipping the lock.
Had to admit, she could breathe a little easier when that hard, fathomless gaze was cut off from sight.
Blowing out a sigh, she went straight to the bedroom to undress, donning a nightie and, after a second thought, a dressing gown. Alone here, she rarely wore anything over her nightie, but with Blue now in residence she decided she better cover up.
Morosely, she folded the white lace shawl and placed it in the top dresser drawer. The white pumps went into a shoe box in the bottom of the wardrobe while the jewellery went into the little wooden box on top of the dressing table. In the bathroom she removed the small amount of make-up. Bracing her hands on the vanity either side of the basin, she studied her reflection with a sigh.
Talk about a total balls-up of a date. Gary was pissed at her, she was pissed at him. It made her wonder if they could find a level playing ground and come to an agreement, but somehow…
Hanging her head, she studied the basin. Could she really have read him so wrong? He’d always been so nice, courteous, career-driven, but tonight she’d seen another side to him. It wasn’t a side she liked. But was it a side that would rule him? Would he think about what she said and realise what he was doing?
Straightening her arms, she stretched back to ease the kinks of tension in her shoulders. Would he ring her? Should she ring him? Should she wait a few days to give him time to cool off? Give her time to cool off?
One thing she did know was that tonight she wasn’t going to ring him, that’d only end disastrously. He’d either expect her to cave in and agree with him, apologise, she’d end up saying something further to anger him and they wouldn’t have a chance to mend this rift. If she even wanted it mended.
“Argh.” Shoving upright, she spun around and headed for the kitchen. “I need a hot Milo and some down time.”
It was almost midnight before she put down the book she was reading, drained the last of the Milo from the mug and turned off the light.
~*~
The road flashed beneath Blue’s sneakered feet as he jogged steadily along the early morning streets. Dawn had barely broken, the birds still stirring when he’d come down the steps of his Dad’s house. Everyone was still asleep, the neighbourhood quiet, only a few lights on in the houses he passed.
Enjoying the cool quiet of the early morning before the sun came up and started heating the air, he settled into a steady pace, his mind wandering pleasantly as he retraced the streets he knew so well.
The evening before had been fun, the gathering of family one he treasured. The laughing, the joking, the pleasant passing of hours with good food and better company. He fell back into the pattern of family life easily, but sometimes he had to admit that it felt a little surreal, those first few days at home after coming from the tension filled areas of the eastern countries. Being home, free, not watching his back, it took a little getting used to.
But he was home now and he’d relax, hang out with his family, hang out with his girlfriend, enjoy his home, see his brother married and off on honeymoon, help out his Dad and cousin Jason a bit, live a normal life for six weeks before he had to go back. He sure as hell meant to enjoy every bit of it.
Sweat making his t-shirt cling to his chest and back, he pounded the pavement, time passing as he did a full circuit of the streets, the sun already up by the time he slowed down to a walk and turned back into the pathway to the house.
As he did so, a big work ute pulled into the driveway.
“Well, look at this.” Luke stuck his head out the window to survey Blue. “Soldier-boy is trying to impress the sheilas with a titty-revealing t-shirt and ball-hugging shorts.”
Blue arched an eyebrow at him.
“Did you ever see such a sight, Jason?” Luke got out of the ute, Dog jumping out behind him.
Dog ran up to Blue in greeting, tongue lolling out as Blue scratched him behind the ears and ruffled his neck before taking off to investigate the bushes.
Jason got out of the other side and leaned on the tray to study Blue, their cousin’s usually serious face relaxed in a grin of amusement. “I can see his nipples from here.”
“Hey.” Blue placed a fingertip over each nipple. “I’m feeling a little self-conscious right now.”
“So let’s take the subject to the ball-huggers,” Luke suggested.
“Those shorts are tight.” Jason nodded. “I can almost see that you’ve slung the nut sac to the right.”
“And stuck a sock in there,” Luke tacked on. “Pathetic.”
Fingertips still on his nipples, Blue looked down at his crotch. “My nut sac is on the left, if you need to know, and that’s not a sock. It’s all me.” Grinning widely, he bobbed his eyebrows at Luke. “All me.”
Luke snorted. “As if.”
Jason grinned. “Aw, big brother is jealous.”
“Shut your gob,” Luke replied. “I have no reason to be jealous. I’m hung like a horse.”
“And still you eye my package,” Blue said. “Which makes you perverted. Even more so because you’re my brother. My brother admiring my package, that’s disgusting.”
“Jesus,” Luke said. “I’m not interested in your donger. I’m just saying your shorts are ball-hugging, I can’t help but see them. They’re sticking out like, well, dog’s balls. Where’s your pride?”
“The shorts aren’t that bad.”
“And for crying out loud, leave your man-titties alone. What’ll Aunt Lora say if she sees you groping yourself? Or Dad? He’d be appalled.”
“Not to mention standing out here in the open pawing yourself for the neighbours to see,” Jason agreed.
Blue looked at his cousin. “You’ve been around this moron for too long.”
“Don’t call him that,” Luke said.
“Not Jason, dipshit, you.”
“That’s not nice.”
“The truth can hurt.”
“The truth is you’re wearing a shirt that is too small for you.”
Blue rolled his eyes. “I woke up, wanted to go for a run, and as all my clothes are at my house and I slept here, all I had were the clothes left behind in my old room so I put them on.” He rolled one arm experimentally. “It is a little snug.”
“Oh my!” Luke sagged at the knees, the back of one hand to his forehead. “Oh Jason. I can’t take the manly swell of muscle! All that power! All that strength! Help me, I’m swooning!”
Jason grabbed the back of his shirt and jerked him upright.
“What the hell, man?” Luke coughed. “You nearly choked me!”
“I saved you from falling onto the pavement. Where’s your gratitude?”
“Drongo.” Luke started for the steps. “I’m sure Aunt Lora will be sympathetic.”
“Not if she knows you’ve been ogling my balls, donger and nipples.” Blue elbowed him out of the way.
“Here!” Luke shoved him back.
Bracing himself, Blue easily knocked Luke off the step as they battled for lead position. In fact, he did it so well that Luke ended arse-up in the daisy bed.
“Shit!” Luke rolled into a sitting position to survey the crushed bushes in dismay. “The daisies!”
“Mum will kill you,” Jason observed cheerfully as he passed Blue to disappear into the house.
“Bloody big bully.” Luke held out a hand. “Here.”
Blue’s eyebrows rose. “What do you want me to do?”
“Help me up.”
“Not in this lifetime.”
“You pushed me in here!”
“Oh diddums. Are you going to go squalling and bawling in to Aunt Lora for her to kiss your boo-boos better?” Flipping his brother the bird, Blue laughed as he entered the house, leaving Luke swearing behind him.
Aunt Lora popped her head out from the kitchen. “I’ve got toast on, how many slices, dear?”
“Four would be great.” Blue gave her a peck on the cheek as he passed. “I’m just going to have a quick shower and I’ll be back.”
“No worries.” Her gaze went past him. “Luke, honey, what’s the matter?”
“That overgrown moron knocked me into your daisies!”
She frowned, tsked. “Did you damage them too much?”
“They’ll be fine.” Luke sighed. “I need a bit of TLC. I’ve been traumatised.”
“Poor baby.” She brushed a stray leaf off his back, patted his cheek. “Have you had breakfast?”
“Mikki loaded me up with toast, but I could always go another cuppa.” He gave her a pathetic expression. “And some understanding.”
“Mum won’t understand you perving on your own brother!” Jason called out from the depths of the kitchen.
“Perving?” Aunt Lora echoed.
“Never mind.” Luke took her shoulders and gently but firmly steered her into the kitchen.
Blue retreated to the bathroom to shower and change into the clothes he’d worn the night before, dropping the sweaty jogging outfit into the wash basket.
Now that it had been pointed out to him, maybe he should get rid of those old clothes in the bedroom, but somehow…well, having his things in his old room still felt like he had a foot in his old home which was, he knew, ridiculous, because even though Jason, Aaron and Luke had moved out, their bedrooms had been kept the same minus their clothes. It would be the same for him, he’d always be welcome home anytime.
Entering the kitchen, he found his dad sitting at the head of the table in his usual spot, sipping from a steaming mug of hot tea and eating a slice of toast thickly buttered and spread with Vegemite. At the corner of the table sat the thumping big Bible that had resided there ever since Blue could remember. Happily chewing a slice of toast, Dog lay under Mr Wells’s chair.
Jason and Luke were sitting at the table cradling mugs of hot tea. Blue started to pour hot tea into a mug only to be shooed over to the table by Aunt Lora.
“Sit down, dear.” She dropped a kiss on top of his head, ruffled Jason’s hair as she passed and winked at Luke who was sitting opposite. “Just relax and I’ll get you some breaky.”
Mr Wells smiled at him. “’Morning, son.”
“Hey, Dad.” Blue settled back with a sigh of contentment.
“You were up early.”
“Went out for a jog.”
“Don’t know why you don’t sleep-in.” Luke took a sip of tea. “You’re on holiday.”
“Too nice a morning to sleep in,” Blue replied.
“Any morning is a good morning to stay in bed.”
“Says the man who is up before the arse-” Catching his Dad’s eyes, he amended quickly, “- before the sun rises to ensure he has his precious plants watered and fertilized.”
“Plants are a whole other ball game,” Luke replied defensively. “But I stay in when I can.”
“Winter,” Jason confided. “Mikki has to drag him out by the ear kicking and screaming. It’s sad.”
“He always was a little whiner.” Blue nodded.
“I’d flip you the bird but I’m not allowed to at the table,” Luke said. “But imagine it. Both hands.”
Silently, Mr Wells’s gaze slid to his middle son.
Luke grinned sheepishly. “Sorry.”
Mr Wells nodded calmly and resumed eating.
Blue laughed silently, but felt not a shred of sympathy for his brother. Mr Wells had only a few simple rules, but they were etched in concrete from the day the boys were born, and he expected them to follow those rules from the moment they understood them until the day they died - no swearing at the dinner table, respect each other, do your chores, and don’t take the Lord’s name in vain. Dirty jokes, squabbles and fighting were all done away from the kitchen table which was meant for family to sit around and share their day and worries as they ate. It was neutral territory and a safe zone.
Aunt Lora placed a mug of steaming tea in front of Blue along with a plate piled with buttered toast.
“Thanks, Aunty.” He scraped Vegemite on the first slice and started eating.
“So what are your plans for the day, Blue?” Sitting down at the opposite end of the table to Mr Wells, she picked up a spoon and started eating porridge.
“Hmmm. I guess I should get some food shopping done, unpack my stuff, settle in a bit more.”
“Maybe buy your young lady some flowers for tonight’s date?”
“Good plan.”
“Where are you taking her?” Luke queried.
“Out to dinner someplace nice.”
“You don’t know where?”
Blue raised his eyebrows at Jason.
“The Blue Room.” Jason lounged easily back in the chair. “Seven o’clock tonight.”
“Thanks, mate.”
“You got him to make the reservation?” Luke snorted. “What would he know about fine dining?”
“Izzy,” Jason said lazily before Blue could reply.
“Ah.” Luke nodded.
“She recommended The Blue Room.”
“But you haven’t taken her there yourself?” Luke shook his head and tut-tutted. “Not very gentlemanly of you, Jason old son.”
“Who says I haven’t?”
“If you had, Iz would have told Mikki, who’d have told me.”
“You really think Mikki tells you everything?”
“Of course. We’re engaged. Red would hide nothing from me.”
Jason grinned.
“We’re getting married in two and a half weeks.”
“Two,” Aunt Lora corrected.
“What?”
“Two weeks. No half.”
“To the ball and chain,” Blue added helpfully.
“I’m not going to be on a ball and chain.” Luke sniffed. “I’m the man. I’m boss.”
“That’s what I meant. Two weeks until Mikki has on the ball and chain.”
“That’s more like it. I’m the - wait.” Luke scowled. “I’m not a ball and chain!”
Mr Wells calmly took a mouthful of tea.
“You keep telling yourself that.”
“Huh.” Luke grinned suddenly, spreading his legs under the table. “Maybe a ball and chain will feature on the hon-” He caught his words as he realised where he was sitting and just who was listening, coughed and quickly added, “honeymoon at the castle we’re visiting.”
“You’re not visiting a castle,” Jason pointed out unhelpfully.
“We’re going to Tasmania, to Port Arthur.”
“You do know that has no castle, right?”
“Of course I know! I meant it’s the penal colony, it’ll have balls and chains and things. Mikki and I will see them on the honeymoon.”
“Nice save,” Blue said, equally as unhelpful.
“Pfft.” Luke flapped his hand around, caught sight of his watch and sprang to his feet. “Cripes! I better get going if I’m going to get that garden finished today.” Downing the last of the tea, he rinsed it out in the sink and placed it upside down on the draining board. “Catch you all later. Dog!”
Dog’s head peeked out from under Mr Wells’s chair.
“Come on.”
Dog’s tail thudded happily.
“Don’t embarrass me, man.”
“Too late for that,” Blue observed.
Luke raised his eyebrows at Dog. “I’ll tell Duchess.”
At that, Dog scurried out and rushed over to him, all wagging tail.
“That dog will do anything for that cat,” Mr Wells stated with amusement.
“Isn’t that embarrassing enough?” Luke shook his head. “Never did I think I’d have to use the cat as a tool to make Dog behave.”
“It’s cute,” Aunt Lora said.
“That’s what Mikki thinks, too.” Luke sighed. “She doesn’t understand the whole man thing.”
“Obviously,” Blue said. “She’s marrying you.”
Jason snorted a laugh.
“Use your imagination as to what I’m thinking right now,” Luke told him before giving his dad and aunt a cheery wave. “Thanks for the tea. Catch you all later. Blue, drop by soon, huh?”
“Will do.”
“If the date goes bum up, call me.”
“Why?” Jason asked. “You think he’ll take you out instead? ‘Cause let me give you the tip, sweetie, you’re not his type.”
Luke stared at him for a second as a snicker went around the table before narrowing his eyes. “If we were outside, this would be going a whole other way.”
“Can’t hurt me,” his cousin replied.
“Want a bet?”
“Uncle Harris needs me.”
“You’re just lucky you’re his handyman. If you were mine, I’d work your brains out.”
“That sounds oddly disturbing. Kind of like you perving on Blue.”
That had Mr Wells’s eyebrows rising and Aunt Lora glancing at Luke questioningly.
“’Bye!” Luke hurried out, Dog prancing along behind him with his tongue lolling out the side of his mouth.
“That boy.” Aunt Lora shook her head fondly. “Mikki is a lucky girl.”
Privately, Blue agreed, but he certainly wasn’t going to admit it out loud. “Or a poorly informed one.”
Aunt Lora tsked and laughed, while Mr Wells smiled quietly.
It wasn’t long after that Mr Wells and Jason left for work. Blue helped Aunt Lora with the dishes before finally taking his leave.
On the big motorcycle, the engine thrumming powerfully, Blue was half tempted to keep riding, to head out into the countryside and just go for it, but being a more orderly person, he decided to head for home and sort out a few things. He could always take the bike out for a long run another day, maybe with Shona warming the seat behind him.
He found the house locked up. Obviously Charley was out, either working or whatever, so he enjoyed some time at home alone, inspecting everything more closely before unpacking his bags properly. Only once that was all done did he head out to do some shopping and reacquaint himself with the city.
After strolling through the shopping centre, buying a couple of DVDs and CDs as well as some food, Blue reached for the mobile vibrating in his back pocket. “Hello?”
“Blue?”
“Shona, hi. You’re back.” Pleasure seeped through him. “Good flight?”
“Always good, Blue.”
“That’s great.”
“Are we still on for tonight?”
“Sure are. I’ve got this great restaurant booked. I’ll pick you up about six thirty.”
There was silence for a few seconds before she said, “Actually, I was hoping we could just, you know, be home.”
“Home,” he echoed, stopping beside a wooden seat.
“Yes. You’ve been gone for so long, I’ve been gone for so long, I thought we could just stay in.”
“Stay in.” His gaze drifted to the pharmacy.
“I’d really prefer it. You don’t mind, do you?”
“Of course not.” Odd, but okay. “We could send out for pizza, have a quiet night in.” That sounded good, too.
“That’s great. Same time, huh?”
“Six thirty it is. Your place or mine?”
“I think its better to meet here, don’t you?”
Ah, because he had a lodger at his house, whereas Shona lived alone in her unit. “Absolutely.”
“I’ll see you tonight, then.” She hung up.
A grin spread slowly across Blue’s face, along with anticipation. Him, the leggy blonde, all alone, quiet night. That just added up to a hot night in with his girl.
Next on his shopping list - condoms.
Returning the mobile to his back pocket, he strode to the pharmacy. Now this was the life.
The satisfaction, anticipation, and contentment lasted right up until he knocked on Shona’s door that evening.
It opened almost immediately, but before he could bend to give his girlfriend a kiss, she held up a hand. “Blue, stop.”
“Huh?” His eyebrows shot up inquiringly. “What?”
The beautiful blonde held open the door while gesturing him inside with one hand. “We need to talk.”
Like those words had ever heralded a good thing. Foreboding started to set in as he held out the bunch of flowers. “For you.”
Taking them, she breathed deeply of the perfume. “Mmmm, wonderful.” Then she looked up at him sadly.
Déjà vu hit him, and all Blue could think was “Ah, shit.”