Chapter Twenty-One
‘Hello strangers.’ Finlay’s mum, Lisa, appeared at the door with a broad smile, dusting her hands down the front of a neat, figure-hugging blue dress. She was always immaculately turned out and so like Hayley. She almost looked more like an older sister than a mum. In fact, it was hard to believe she was old enough to be Finlay’s mum. She must be in her late fifties, but you could easily knock ten or fifteen years off if looks were anything to go by. In all the years Genevieve had known her, she’d hardly changed.
‘Hi, Mum.’ Finlay stepped forward, hugged her, and kissed her cheek.
‘Aw, my best boy,’ she said. ‘Always my favourite son.’
‘Still your only son, Mum.’
She patted his back and leaned around him to smile at Genevieve, who was smirking at Finlay’s retort.
‘I’ve been saying that ever since he was born and he’s been coming back with that ever since he was able to talk. I’m very glad Hayley was a girl. Now I can have a favourite son and a favourite daughter without causing any jealousy.’
Genevieve smiled and held Mitzi’s lead tight; she was straining to get to Lisa. Lisa didn’t look particularly mumsy – more yummy mummy – but she always exuded warmth and her love for her children was almost palpable. Anyone who harmed a child of hers should watch out. That vibe was intense. Genevieve would bet her bottom dollar Elise had never showed face at this house since the breakup. Lisa would eat her for breakfast, despite always having a smile on her face.
‘Nice to see you again too.’ Lisa opened her arms and hugged Genevieve. ‘All very surprising circumstances, but wonderful ones. And hello, Mitzi.’ She bent over and tickled Mitzi. ‘I’ll get a wee bowl of water set up for you. You’ll be roasty toasty in this weather.’
‘Thank you,’ Genevieve said. Would Lisa still think this was wonderful in a couple of weeks’ time? How would Hayley feel when both her closest friends weren’t welcome at her mum’s house because of their awful treatment of Finlay?
‘And it’s good to see you again too,’ Genevieve said. ‘You look great as always.’
‘Oh, don’t,’ Lisa said. ‘I certainly don’t feel it. I’m sure I’ve put on weight again.’
‘Mum, there’s nothing of you.’ Finlay shook his head.
‘Are you serious? Look at this.’ She cradled a slightly round tummy, though it was barely there and certainly didn’t look bad. Genevieve hoped she looked that good at Lisa’s age.
‘That’s nothing, Mum.’
‘Easy for you to say, but I feel a bit bloated. I was on holiday in Fuerteventura with my friends a couple of weeks ago,’ she told Genevieve. ‘And I ate far too much.’
‘Drank too much vino, more like,’ Finlay said.
Lisa play-smacked him on the side of his leg. ‘You are a very cheeky boy and hardly one to talk.’ She stepped back and peered from him to Genevieve. She seemed to be examining them and Genevieve tried to move closer to Finlay without looking like she was moving at all.
‘I’m a great believer in fate,’ Lisa said, tilting her head and smiling.
‘We know,’ Finlay said. ‘Does that mean you’ve been to a fortune teller again?’
‘Not exactly.’ Lisa beckoned them inside. ‘Let’s sit in the garden. It’s a beautiful day and I’ve made up a tray. Let Mitzi run about if you like. We’re all fenced off.’
‘Thank you.’ They made their way through the very tidy house. Lisa detoured into the kitchen and Genevieve followed Finlay through the living room and out the French doors. She unclipped Mitzi from the lead as they reached the patio. Finlay took a seat at a wooden table in the pretty garden and tapped the one beside him. Genevieve sat and he rested his hand on top of hers. He flicked her a reassuring, if somewhat uncertain, smile. Lisa came out behind them and placed down a tray of mini sandwiches and cakes.
‘This looks great,’ Genevieve said.
‘It’s actually leftovers from the café, but it goes in the bin otherwise, so I like to make use of it. Another reason for this.’ She patted her tummy again. ‘It’s hard to resist.’ Taking the seat next to Finlay, she lowered large sunglasses over her eyes and rested back. ‘Now, what I was saying about fate has nothing to do with fortune tellers. Even though I do like having my cards read. I often get a feeling, you know. Kind of like a sixth sense or a vibe.’
Genevieve smoothed her skirt, trying to act normally. She remembered Lisa talking about stuff like this before. Once she’d told her mum something Lisa had said, and her mum had told her she should ‘never mess with the occult’. Now, she wasn’t sure if she believed it or not. Sometimes she had strange feelings herself but dismissed it. Could there be more to it?
‘Mum, what you do in your alone time is your business. If you get a vibe, then good for you.’
She leaned forward, lifted a sandwich, and shook her head, but she was grinning. ‘Finlay, you are a very naughty boy sometimes. He’s so cheeky, isn’t he?’ She looked at Genevieve.
‘Very,’ Genevieve agreed. ‘The sarcasm king, even though he’s not sarky at all, apparently.’
‘Don’t you two gang up on me,’ he said.
Lisa smiled and nibbled on her sandwich. ‘Yes. I often get a vibe – not that kind.’ She narrowed her eyes at Finlay. ‘Not that I’d be sharing that info with you anyway. Right now, I have a really good one.’
‘Is that like the rabbit or something?’ Finlay asked.
Lisa gave him a hard stare and he smirked.
‘I mean about the two of you.’
Genevieve glanced at him. He lounged back with an undisguised eyeroll, like he was used to his mum talking about this kind of thing.
‘Oh, here. I forgot the drinks,’ Lisa said. ‘I’ll nip in and get them.’ She headed back through the French door.
Bees hummed in the colourful pots on the little patio. A lush green lawn surrounded it and even the fences between the neighbouring gardens were decked with hanging baskets overflowing with flowers. Mitzi had found a shady spot near a flowering shrub and was lying in it with her tongue lolling out.
‘So far, so good,’ Genevieve whispered. She didn’t want to say too much, but she was dying to ask if Lisa had ‘got a vibe’ about Elise too.
Finlay tilted his head and furrowed his brow, raising his hand over his eyes to block out the bright sunshine. His other hand was still resting on top of hers. He gently rubbed his thumb over the soft spot between her thumb and her forefinger. Genevieve resisted closing her eyes and slipping into a dream world. His light touch created powerful tremors inside her, reminding her of what they’d done before they left to come here. Sex mid afternoon wasn’t something she was used to. In fact, before Finlay, she hadn’t really enjoyed it that much. It was always one of those things you had to do and no matter how she dressed it up or approached it, she couldn’t really get fully into it. But with him, it was important. It brought a physical dimension to their relationship, bonded them together, and made her feel good.
Maybe, subconsciously, she was letting herself go because she knew she didn’t have to keep it going for too long.
Or maybe you like it – and him – more than is good for you, a sneaky little voice inside her head said.
‘When we were kids,’ he said, breaking the spell. ‘And you used to come around here to see Hayley. Did you…’ He stopped rubbing her hand and his face twitched a little like he was trying to figure something out.
‘Did I what?’
‘Here are the drinks, my darlings.’ Lisa reappeared with a tray laden with jugs and glasses. It looked like a proper old-fashioned picnic and Genevieve remembered Lisa doing this kind of thing when they were younger. She’d always been a hospitable mum and Genevieve and her friends had spent more time here than at any of the others’ houses. Genevieve had rarely had friends over that she could recall. Her mum was over kids’ birthday parties by the time Genevieve came around, having done so many for the older two. Genevieve’s parties were always at a venue somewhere. Her parents were there to oversee drop offs and pickups, but for the event, the staff took over. If she and her friends wanted to meet up casually, Hayley’s house was the most convenient. With Genevieve’s home being further out of the town, it seemed like a long way when usually they were meeting after school or before they were going out.
‘This reminds me of when we were at high school,’ Genevieve said. ‘You always did a good spread.’
‘It’s not a problem. I’ve nearly always got stuff from the café to use up. It’s part of the reason I love my work.’ She took a seat opposite them and smiled. ‘I very rarely have to buy food.’
Finlay leaned forward and lifted the jug. ‘Is this lemonade?’
‘Made by me.’ Lisa smiled.
‘Awesome. Would you like some?’ He eyed Genevieve.
‘Yes, please.’
‘Oh, that reminds me. I forgot the water for Mitzi.’ Lisa jumped to her feet again and bustled off.
‘Oh bugger,’ Finlay muttered.
‘What?’
‘I spilled it. Hang on, I’ll nip in and grab some kitchen roll, or it’ll drip all over the place.’
From inside the house, Genevieve heard Finlay’s voice through the open kitchen window. ‘I spilled the lemonade.’
‘You dafty,’ Lisa said. ‘There’s the kitchen roll. And Finlay, I just have to say I’m thrilled for the two of you. I wasn’t joking when I said I get a vibe. The love between you is so obvious. I can almost feel it.’
‘Yeah.’
Genevieve sucked on her lip, understanding why he didn’t elaborate.
‘She’s a lovely person. I’ve always liked her. Those videos she does are wonderful, but I think she’s quite reserved really. I get the feeling all that social media stuff is a front.’
Wow. She got that right. One of the only people who’d ever seen the truth of the situation.
‘What will happen when you go to Dubai?’ Lisa continued. ‘Hayley told me Genevieve has already put her house on the market, which is great. It’ll be so much nicer for you not being alone. I was worried about you being so far away and all by yourself. Will she keep doing the social media stuff? I guess she can do that anywhere, but isn’t some of that stuff censored over there? How will it work?’
‘I, um, don’t worry about it, Mum. We’ll sort things out.’
‘I’m sure you will. Love is all that matters in the end. You learn that as you get older. The love I have for you and Hayley, my sister, my brother, my niece, my friends. That’s what matters. The loves I’ve lost are what hurt the most: my parents, my grandparents, even the dog I had when we were little. These are the things that are important. Careers and hobbies are all well and good but they can’t beat human connection or even pet connection.’
‘You should get together with Oliver sometime. He takes the opposing view.’
‘That grumpy guts.’ Lisa’s laugh tinkled. ‘I love him really, but he’s such a cynic. Sadly, he’ll probably learn the hard way, when he’s a lonely old man, that he should have followed his heart and not that brilliant brain of his. But you’re distracting me from what I was talking about.’
‘No, I’m not. You were telling me about love conquering the world.’
‘Exactly. I’m just a little worried that your private life will be splashed all over social media. Is there any chance Genevieve might give all that up? I mean, the proposal was sweet, but I’m not sure I like the idea of footage of the two of you circulating around quite so many people.’
‘Yeah, I don’t like that either, and I’m sure my new employers won’t be impressed. Hopefully, they won’t see it. We have to accept it’s Genevieve’s job and try not to worry about it. I’ll establish some boundaries.’
Genevieve held her breath. He didn’t have to do that or like it; it would soon be over but she hated the idea she’d hurt him with those silly films. She knew he didn’t want a social media presence… especially not if it would somehow jeopardise his new career.
‘Well, the good thing is, son, I’ve always been good at reading auras and situations. Even when she was a child, I always had a feeling she liked you. When I asked Hayley about it, she said no, never any question of that, but I’m not so sure.’
No way! Genevieve’s eyes widened and she stared into the garden. Lisa must be a witch. How the hell did she know that? Genevieve had never given anything away, she was sure of it. She’d always been so embarrassed around him and so sure he wouldn’t even look at her.
‘And I’ll tell you something else; I never got a vibe like that from Elise. I got a vibe alright, it just wasn’t a good one. Genevieve has always been very sweet, and I think she’s exactly the right person for you.’
‘Yeah. Thanks.’
‘Let’s get back out,’ Lisa said. ‘She’ll wonder what on earth has happened to us.’
Genevieve cringed. Lisa’s words were astute, kind and lovely except, like everything else for the last few weeks, none of it was real. She didn’t deserve any praise. Lisa was right with her vibes and auras. Genevieve had always liked Finlay. The last few days, she’d indulged all her fantasies. With Finlay by her side, she felt whole. Putting the house on the market hadn’t been a daunting experience because he’d been there with her, not doing anything more than being present – someone just there for her. He’d indulged all her physical needs and then some. She missed him so much when he wasn’t there and that was only going to get worse.
And none of it meant he returned her feelings. Feelings she’d kept wrapped up tightly inside for such a long time.
When he reappeared, he mopped up the dripping table. Lisa nipped over to Mitzi and placed the bowl close to her, cooing a little and giving her a quick tummy rub.
‘You ok?’ Finlay caught Genevieve’s eye.
‘Fine.’
‘Here’s your lemonade. Finally.’ He handed her a glass, then poured another two.
Lisa took hers as she returned to the table. ‘Here’s to you both and a long and happy life together.’ She raised her glass, then clinked the edge against theirs before taking a sip.
Genevieve’s drink lodged in her throat and it was hard to swallow, even though it tasted cool and refreshing. She wasn’t sure she dared look at Finlay.
‘When I was in Fuerteventura,’ Lisa said. ‘I met this man.’
‘Is this something we need to hear?’ Finlay asked.
‘Be quiet and listen. But there’s nothing romantic about this story, so no need to worry. He was working at the hotel and he could do this really amazing trick with glasses when he poured drinks.’
‘Are you going to demonstrate?’ Finlay asked.
‘No way. I’d smash them. I filmed it though. Let me look back and show you.’ She pulled out her phone and scrolled. She could talk about everything and anything – a trait she’d given to her children. It passed the time pleasantly and, under other circumstances, Genevieve would have enjoyed it. She laughed along with them at the film and joined in with the chat when necessary, but she couldn’t help feeling like a total and utter fraud. On the flip side, she now knew Lisa had read her true feelings for Finlay when no one else had.
‘Is everything ok?’ Lisa asked, her eyes full of concern as she looked at Genevieve. ‘You don’t seem quite yourself and you seem a bit uneasy.’
‘I’m fine, just tired.’
‘It’s a busy time,’ Finlay added, taking her hand again and squeezing it. Was this part of his act? It didn’t feel like it. Nothing could be more natural, and he didn’t look like he was faking or trying too hard. He was just there, supporting her when she needed it. ‘Selling houses is always stressful,’ he said, rubbing the pad of his thumb towards her wrist. Every circle sent a wave of calm through her.
‘Of course,’ Lisa said. ‘And this has all happened so quickly. No wonder you’re exhausted.’ She gave them a sad smile. ‘I’ve really enjoyed having you both here. I’ll miss you. Three years is a long time to be without my baby boy.’
‘I’m a big boy now, Mum.’
‘You’ll always be my baby. I’m so glad you’re going with him, Genevieve. He is a big boy, but he always does better when he’s got someone holding his hand.’
‘Mum,’ he groaned.
‘You know it’s true. You’ve never been big on change. I was so worried about you going but I feel a lot happier now.’
Genevieve glanced at him and smiled. She turned her hand to hold his and he matched her grip with increased pressure, like he didn’t want to let go.
His mum knew best and she’d got the measure of him whether he admitted it or not. Maybe that was partly why he’d jumped into an engagement with Elise… And me! Because he liked having a partner. Had he once told her that? Maybe that night they got engaged. She remembered talking a lot that night but wasn’t quite sure what either of them had said and if any of it had been sensible, true, or just the prosecco talking.
I wish it had been you and not Elise. You’re much more my kind of girl.
Those words kept coming back to her. She could swear he’d said that, but even if he had, did he really mean it?
Prosecco had a lot to answer for.
‘Look after each other,’ Lisa said. ‘I know you will.’
When they left her house later, Finlay drove back to his place. Genevieve’s car was there, so it made sense. What didn’t make sense was how much she wanted to stay with him. Should she ask if she could come in? Did that make her look needy? Or maybe it would seem like she was overdoing the faking… Or using him for sex again.
‘You coming in?’ he said when they arrived back.
‘Do you want me to?’
‘Sure. Like my mum said, I’m always better when someone holds my hand.’ He reached across to the passenger seat and stroked her cheek with his thumb. ‘Especially when it’s someone as nice as you.’
She gave him a weak smile but her insides were jumping up and down.
Yay! He doesn’t want me to go!
How silly could she get? Because these days were numbered. All she could do was enjoy the ones they had left.
She got out of the car and waited for Finlay as he locked it. He stepped up beside her and took her hand, stroking her again in that way he’d done all afternoon. It drove her wild with desire for him.
‘Thanks,’ he said.
‘What for?’
‘Holding my hand. I need it, remember? Just what the mother ordered.’
‘Happy to help the vibe along.’
He smirked. ‘Have you got one of those rabbit things too?’
She cocked her head and raised an eyebrow. ‘What single girl doesn’t?’
‘Shouldn’t have asked, should I?’ He held eye-contact for a moment, then stopped stroking her hand and looked down at the ring. ‘Tell me… Did you ever have a crush on me when we were younger?’
Heat flared in her face and she hoped it didn’t show. He’d raised his gaze to her again and his expression was filled with curiosity.
‘You think you’re that irresistible, do you?’ She pulled on her best attempt at her casual face. ‘Why do you want to know? Did you have one on me?’
‘Well, no. Like I said before, you were about twelve when I first met you. It might have worked in my favour, an older boy and all that, but when I was seventeen, I wasn’t looking at my kid sister’s friends as possible dates.’
‘Sensible.’ Though she didn’t bother to mention it had gone on a lot longer than that. She hadn’t had a crush that lasted a year. Nope. That would have been easy. She’d probably have forgotten all about it. But this had lasted a lot longer. When Finlay had been off at university, she’d lived for the days he was back and made a point of visiting Hayley on the off-chance of seeing him, but he’d rarely even looked her way. When he wasn’t there, Genevieve liked seeing photos of him around the house and hearing Lisa chatting about what he was up to. When she’d dated James, she’d fantasised during their intimate moments that he was Finlay, though the real deal had proved so much better.
‘What about you? You didn’t answer my question.’
‘Wouldn’t Hayley have told you if I had?’
‘Not if you kept it hidden behind that serene fa?ade.’ He put his hands on her waist and pulled her close. ‘What’s a guy to think?’
‘You just like the idea of being a high school heartthrob, don’t you?’
He shook his head. ‘Oh, Genevieve. You’re going to keep me hanging on, aren’t you?’
‘I can cook us salmon and asparagus gratin for dinner. Ingredients are in the fridge. I brought them earlier. It’s one of The Vieve’s specialities. Recipes on all my channels, don’t forget to hit subscribe.’
He chuckled, then planted a kiss on her forehead. ‘For someone who’s made their name as a single girl, you sure know the way to a man’s heart and…’ He drew back and looked at her. ‘Well, I’m going to enjoy these days as much as I can and take the memories to Dubai with me.’ Stroking his hand through her hair, he let out a sigh. ‘Because I’m really going to miss—’
‘My cooking?’
‘That. And you.’
She returned his smile, keeping her lips clamped shut because a lump was welling in her throat.
‘Let’s go inside, beautiful, and we can cook this feast together. Mitzi can have some of the treats I bought her. They’re about all that’s left in the cupboard.’ He kissed Genevieve’s forehead again and she held her breath. She couldn’t afford to let him see how much she loved every second spent with him or how much she would miss him. No one needed to know that. Like always, she’d deal with it alone.