Chapter 4
Emma braced herself before pushing through the heavy glass doors into Latimer Bank. It had been a week since she’d submitted her application for voluntary redundancy, and she was waiting with bated breath for some kind of response. From discreetly asking round her colleagues, she knew that there were only two others who had done the same, both in their late fifties with good pensions no doubt to rely on. What did she have? Her savings for a start, but they wouldn’t last forever, then what? Initially, when Emma had heard of voluntary redundancy, she’d been elated. Now, having had time to reflect on the matter, she was more rational than excited. Although adamant she still wanted to leave Latimer Bank, it had opened up a whole new can of worms.
Emma was a big believer in fate. She truly trusted things happened for a reason. Look how her mum and Perry had met. They were meant to visit the Maritime Museum that day. Perry had worked there as a volunteer and they had got chatting. Then, when Emma and Valerie had gone into the café, he’d been there too on his coffee break and little Emma had run over to sit at his table. The rest was history. Perry had wowed them both with his canal boat, taking them on day trips and weekend aways. A year later Perry and Valerie had married and he’d moved into their cottage in Lancaster. Perry had been the best thing to have happened to them – and all because Emma had pestered her mum to take her to the museum. It was inconceivable to think what they could have missed out on had they not. Emma would have been an orphan at the tender age of thirteen.
Then there was the band. Emma had just happened to be stood by the bar in a crowded pub when she overhead a conversation between two guys. They were forming a group and needed a singer. Emma, being Emma, turned round and introduced herself. She could sing, she told them with gusto. One of the boys gave a lobsided grin.
‘Go on then,’ he coaxed, looking her up and down.
Not to be put off, she lifted a provocative eyebrow.
‘What do you want me to sing?’ she replied, determined to stand her ground and not be intimidated.
‘You pick,’ said the other boy, narrowing his eyes in assessment. It would be interesting to see what she chose. She certainly looked confident enough to head a band, with her self-assurance and style. He took in her tie-dyed fitted dress, biker jacket and laced boots. She wore amber jewellery which matched her eyes and those chestnut curls ran wild. Very rock-chic. But did she have the voice?
‘How about Respect ?’ she suggested, holding his gaze.
He gave a wry grin. She’d obviously clocked him giving her the once-over. Hmm, feisty too, he thought, warming to the girl.
‘Go ahead,’ he nodded.
Emma sang the famous opening line and soon the people around them stopped mid-drink and turned to see who was singing. Once Emma had finished, they all cheered, put down their glasses and clapped. She gave a small bow and grinned at the two boys.
‘Well, am I in?’
‘You’re in,’ they replied in unison.
That had been seven years ago, and she’d made friends for life with Gaz and Mitch. When Mitch’s girlfriend, Sophie, had later joined the band, Emma had played the keyboard as well as sang. Sophie tended to be the lead singer, as she didn’t play any instrument. Together they’d all got on well and it had been a successful venture.
If Emma hadn’t been stood at the bar that night eavesdropping on Gaz and Mitch she wouldn’t have joined the band. Fate again, in her eyes.
So, according to Emma, voluntary redundancy had reared its head for a reason. It was her opportunity to seize the moment. Or so she thought. Now, after she’d just entered the bank, taken off her coat, sat at her desk and opened her inbox, it was all too real. There sat the email she’d so, so wanted. Latimer Bank were offering her voluntary redundancy. Emma blinked and re-read the message with all the terms and conditions attached. She was leaving.
Gulping, she grabbed her bag and rose from the chair. She went straight to the Ladies’. Once alone, she pulled out her mobile, sat in a cubicle and rang her dad.
‘Dad,’ she whispered, ‘I’ve got it.’
‘Voluntary redundancy?’ asked Perry.
‘Yes,’ she hissed.
‘I’m pleased for you, if that’s what you really want,’ he replied calmly.
‘It is…’ she said, her chin wobbling slightly, suddenly feeling emotional.
‘Well then, time to start a new chapter,’ Perry stated assertively, sensing her unease.
‘Yes, time for a fresh start,’ replied Emma with conviction. She always felt better after talking to her dad.
Later that night, after a celebratory supper of fish, chips and prosecco, Perry sat back and eyed his daughter. He could read her like a book.
‘Having second thoughts?’ he asked.
‘Not really, but I do need to start looking for another job. I know I’ve savings and a lump sum from the bank, but—’
‘There’s also the money I’ve kept aside for you,’ Perry gently interrupted.
Emma frowned. ‘Sorry?’
‘The rent you insisted on giving me, I kept it in a separate account for you.’
‘But…that’s years of—’
‘Yes, I know,’ he cut in, ‘and I’ve been saving it to give back, plus the interest, when the time was right. Now is the time,’ he said with a kind smile.
‘Oh, Dad!’ She ran and wrapped her arms round him.
At least it would help to give her a bit of breathing space, until she decided on what to do next.
‘Have faith in yourself,’ whispered Perry.
‘It’s freezing!’ wailed Jasmine as her feet entered the sea. Robin
had already braved the cold and dived straight in.
‘Come on! It’s not so bad when you get used to it,’ he called back laughing, then ducked his head under the waves. Swimming underwater, he made his way to the edge where his girlfriend was hesitantly wading in with a grimace on her face. Eventually he coaxed her in further.
‘This has got to be the last time this year we do this,’ she shivered, treading water.
When Jasmine had first moved to Samphire Bay it had been a glorious summer. She had soon developed the routine of an early morning dip, leaving her invigorated to start the day. And she’d certainly needed the kick start, ploughing all her energy into the work on her cottage. It was more than just good luck she’d had Robin as a next-door neighbour, renovating the adjoining cottage as his next building project. Now, the two of them were enjoying a new romance, which had developed over that summer.
‘Come on, I’ll race you!’ cheered Robin, laughing at her reluctance to get swimming.
‘No, you always cheat.’ She shivered, hugging herself.
‘No, I won’t, promise.’ He smiled, admiring her shapely, tanned arms. ‘Ready, steady, go!’
Off they set, splashing along the waves. For once, he deliberately slowed down and let Jasmine overtake him. She turned a few moments later, noticing the distance.
‘You let me win!’ she shouted.
‘I never,’ he replied in mock indignation.
‘Yes, you did,’ she chuckled, making her way over to him.
He reached out and embraced her cold body. Then kissed her shoulder, which was covered in goosebumps.
‘Let’s get back,’ he said, giving her a quick squeeze.
Once back at Jasmine’s cottage, Robin soon got the wood burner blasting out warmth. They sat by it, drinking tea and munching toast. Robin looked at the clock.
‘Best get going soon, Jack’ll be wondering where I’ve got to.’
Jack was his best friend and business partner. Together they renovated properties, and when they had finished working on the cottage next door to Jasmine’s, Robin had at first considered keeping it for himself instead of selling it. In the end, he had decided against it, admitting the main reason for keeping it was to be near to Jasmine. Once their feelings for each other had eventually come out in the open, he was happy for Bunty to buy the cottage.
For now, he was quite happy living in his apartment which sat sheltered behind a small wood near to the bay. Converted from a large Victorian property, the place had served him well, giving him splendid views of the coastline and friendly neighbours. It was just the right size for a single person, easy to maintain and, best of all, it was in Samphire Bay. For now, he was content in living between his apartment and stopping the odd night at Jasmine’s cottage. It suited them both, giving them each space as well as time together.
‘I think Jack will have an idea where you are,’ grinned Jasmine, ‘and no doubt have some quick remark to make.’
Robin laughed. ‘Probably.’
Jack wasn’t exactly known for his subtlety. He was quite the opposite to Robin, not just in looks, but personality too. Whereas Robin was dark haired and rather shy, Jack was blond and full-on with his teasing. It had taken a while for Jasmine to warm to him, initially being put off with his sense of humour. Now, she just accepted who Jack was and that he was probably better for knowing.
‘Maybe it’s time we try to find Jack a girlfriend, see if that’ll stop his teasing?’
Robin considered the idea before shaking his head dolefully. ‘I’m not sure if he’ll ever be ready to settle down.’
‘Oh, I don’t know,’ Jasmine said with a small smirk. ‘My mum always jokes that there’s something in the water here at Samphire Bay.’ She wrapped her arms around Robin’s waist and leant her head against his chest. ‘Just look at us.’
Perhaps there was some truth in that? Jasmine and Robin’s broken hearts weren’t the only ones to be healed at Samphire Bay. Bunty and Perry, after years of separation, had also been reunited, mending their hearts too. So maybe there was something in the water?
Felix was pacing the marbled hall like a caged tiger.
‘Jennifer!’ he bellowed anxiously.
In she came, looking her usual calm and efficient self.
‘Yes, Felix?’ she said, straining to keep the impatience out of her voice. It had been a very long and tiring journey from London up to Lancashire and she hadn’t stopped since her arrival.
‘Is everything in place? They’ll be arriving any minute,’ he asked, lines of worry furrowed on his forehead. The pressure of holding the pre-production meeting was getting to him. Not only was it his first as a director, but he was host too. Although he had to concede his PA had done a sterling job so far in preparation, and the cameras dotted about the house and grounds meant they were secure. She’d even contacted a local catering company and the kitchen was full of buffet food, ready to be displayed in the dining room, though Jennifer had made a comment on lack of assistance in carrying all the plates and dishes up the stairs from the lower ground floor. Not to mention she’d made up all the beds, stocked the fridge and cleaned the place – the poor woman was shattered. And, as she kept reminding Felix, she was ‘no spring chicken’.
‘Yes, Felix,’ Jennifer sighed, ‘the bedrooms are ready, as are the refreshments, and the library is set up for the meeting.’
‘Brilliant, thanks, Jennifer, you’re a star.’ He gave her one of his winning smiles, only this time it didn’t win Jennifer over. This time, quite frankly, he’d taken liberties.
Jennifer was still smarting over having to give up her weekend. She hadn’t particularly enjoyed driving for five hours down the motorway. It left her tired and anxious. When she had finally arrived at Samphire Bay the tide was in, rendering the road unfit to drive. She’d had to sit and wait for bloody hours for the passageway to clear. Time that could have been well spent elsewhere.
Finally pulling into the gravel driveway and seeing the place up close, instead of being impressed with its grandeur and beauty, all she could do was wince at the size of it and the dreaded task of cleaning it. All down to her. It was ridiculous. She was expected to not only do her proper job of administrating the meeting, but also act as scullery maid, butler and housekeeper. And for how long? Would Felix be expecting this level of service in future? Supposing he made a habit of entertaining in this spectacular home he’d acquired? She sincerely hoped this pre-production get together was a one-off, all part of the novelty of buying his new house.
Despite Jennifer already looking dog-tired before the weekend had even begun, Felix didn’t notice. He was way too wrapped up with the impending meeting. A lot was hinging on it. He was out to impress. Secretly, he was also brooding over Anika’s latest malicious text message.
His head turned sharply at hearing the screech of brakes on gravel.
‘They’re here!’ he shouted unnecessarily, as Jennifer was inches away from him.
She jumped in shock then rolled her eyes. ‘Yes, Felix,’ she said witheringly.
Andy was the first to arrive.
Felix threw the front doors open. ‘Andy! Good to see you.’ He pumped the man’s hand then ushered him inside. Keen to gauge his reaction, he examined Andy’s face, which appeared to be suitably impressed.
‘Some place you got here, Felix,’ he whistled, eyes darting around the hall.
This was exactly the response Felix wanted.
‘Right location then?’ he asked.
‘Absolutely.’ Andy homed in on the sweeping staircase, the grand piano, then to the huge chandelier above them, casting its glass shadows on the high ceiling. ‘Perfect. Exactly what we want,’ he affirmed with a nod, making Felix’s shoulders relax.
‘Wait till you see the rest of the house.’
‘And grounds,’ Jennifer chipped in, determined that her efforts of hiring a gardener were acknowledged.
‘Yes, of course, the gardens are pretty amazing, even if I say so myself,’ agreed Felix, then upon seeing Jennifer’s stern look quickly added, ‘all thanks to my wonderful PA who had the foresight to get them tended to asap.’ He gave her another winning beam. This time she at least acknowledged it with a stiff smile in return.
‘Shall I take Andy’s coat while you give him the guided tour?’ she asked.
‘Yes, marvellous, thank you, Jennifer,’ replied Felix.
Just then the doorbell chimed.
‘I’ll get it,’ said Jennifer coolly, hiding a sigh.
The casting director, Mel, arrived with the associate producer, a rather timid looking lady introduced as just ‘Flo’. Mel flounced in wearing a grey woollen pashmina and felt hat.
‘Good Lord, Felix, we’re in the back of beyond here!’ he announced, whilst taking his hat off and arrogantly giving it Flo to carry.
Felix froze, not sure how to answer. Jennifer, as ever, came to the rescue.
‘Yes, that’s its charm. Out of view, enabling you all to get on with the job.’ She chuckled softly, taking the edge off any awkwardness.
‘It’s a lovely spot,’ murmured Flo, then put her head down, clutching Mel’s hat tightly.
‘It certainly is,’ gushed Andy.
His approval seemed to resonate with Mel, who tipped his head to one side in consideration.
‘Hmm, let’s see the rest,’ he suggested, then looked directly at Jennifer, ‘after drinkypoos.’ He smiled, showing a set of pure white dentures.
Jennifer took a deep breath. Clearly she was to play waitress too.
‘Of course,’ she replied between gritted teeth.
After a full guided tour of the house and grounds were given, Felix directed them all into the library. Jennifer had set up a long table running down the middle of the room. She herself was sat next to Felix at the top of it, pen poised, ready to make notes. Felix had handouts which Jennifer had prepared to pass round. The first one contained suggestions for the leading role, Lady Scarlett. Felix had his heart set on Polly Andrews, a young up-and-coming actress who had impressed him with her rendition of Eliza Doolittle in the West End play Pygmalion. On seeing her name, Mel raised an eyebrow.
‘Not my first choice, must admit.’
Felix’s heart sank. Trying desperately to sound impartial, he replied, ‘Who did you have in mind, Mel?’
‘I was thinking… Alicia Davenport!’ he proclaimed with his hands raised dramatically in the air.
The old queen, thought Felix, and remained as calm as he could muster.
‘Maybe a tad predictable? Bearing in mind she’s already played a lady sleuth in the past?’ he questioned as diplomatically as possible.
‘Oh.’ Mel frowned, obviously not expecting that response. Not to be outdone, he had another name to throw into the ring. ‘How about Selina McKenna?’ he suggested with a sly grin.
That was a curveball, thought Felix, considering Selina McKenna was originally a model and, fully known to Mel, a good friend of his ex-girlfriend Anika. Was the old ham deliberately provoking him?
There was a difficult pause round the table. Jennifer, knowing how challenging this could potentially be, gave a cough.
‘I believe she’s currently been taken ill, if that needs to be considered,’ she spoke quietly.
Felix turned to her in surprise. How did she know that?
‘Yes, it does,’ replied Flo. ‘If we’re to crack on with these scripts,’ she patted the huge pile of papers in front of her, ‘then we need our main role to start immediately.’
‘Here, here,’ agreed Andy, ever mindful of the time lost already due to the problem with the first location.
Felix seized the moment. ‘Polly showed her capability as Eliza Doolittle. She’ll pique people’s interest, not being a big name already. This drama would catapult her career and help promote our production at the same time,’ he reasoned.
‘Plus she’ll be eternally grateful for the part, as opposed to some demanding prima donna,’ Andy added. Flo was vigorously nodding in agreement.
Mel narrowed his eyes in contemplation. ‘OK then, let’s give her an audition,’ he said.
Felix inwardly sighed with relief. Mel might be a touch temperamental and a little stagey, but he was a team player, not stuck in his own opinions.
‘I’ll get on to her agent prompto,’ said Flo.
The rest of the meeting was held quite amicably, with everyone agreeing on the rest of the cast. When all was done Mel turned to Jennifer, but before he could open his mouth she pre-empted him.
‘Drinkypoos?’ she curtly asked, raising an eyebrow.
‘You’re an angel.’ He smiled, his dentures dazzling.
After a weekend full of entertaining, Felix waved his guests off and
closed the front doors with relish. Thank goodness that was over with.
Turning to an equally relieved Jennifer he looked quizzically at
her.
‘Jennifer, how did you know about Selina McKenna being ill?’ he asked, head tilted to one side.
‘I didn’t,’ she stated flatly.
He paused, then broke into a smile once the penny dropped.
‘Where would I be without you?’ he said with genuine affection.
‘Well, unless you hire a housekeeper, Felix, without me you will be .’ She stared him full in the face.
‘But…’ He frowned, perplexed at her words.
‘I have given up my weekend, played waitress, cleaner, cook and scullery maid, on top of minute taker and assistant host. It’s too much, Felix,’ she said with force.
Felix closed his eyes in shame. Now, once the meeting was all over, he had time to take stock and realise just how hard Jennifer had worked.
‘I’m so sorry, Jennifer. I’ll pay you double,’ he tried to appease.
She shook her head. ‘It’s not about the money.’
‘Right… sorry… I’ll—’
‘Hire a housekeeper?’ cut in Jennifer directly.
‘Yes, I’ll—’
‘Good. I’ll advertise for one tomorrow,’ she replied in that no-nonsense tone he was accustomed to.