Chapter twelve
T he rhythmic snip of scissors and the soft whir of clippers filled the air at Ruff to Regal, but Georgina's mind was far from the Schnauzer she was grooming. Her thoughts kept drifting back to the previous evening—to Veronica's predatory smile, Matt's easy laughter, and the knot of jealousy that had formed in her stomach and hadn’t disappeared, but had grown tighter after a restless night’s sleep.
‘Ouch!’ A sharp yip from the Schnauzer brought Georgina back to reality. She'd nicked the dog's skin, distracted by her swirling thoughts.
‘Oh, I'm so sorry, little one,’ she cooed, gently patting the dog and reaching for the first aid kit. As she tended to the small cut, Marcus peered around the partition.
‘Everything alright over there?’ he asked, concern etching his features.
Georgina nodded, forcing a smile. This was the first time she’d been allowed to groom a dog without Marcus’s watchful gaze, and she’d nicked the dog’s skin—she felt awful. ‘Just a little slip. All taken care of now.’
Marcus studied her for a moment. ‘You seem a bit distracted today, Georgina. Is everything okay?’
‘I'm fine,' she replied, perhaps a bit too quickly. ‘Just....thinking about the charity event. I’m sorry. I promise to keep my full attention focused on this job from now on.’
Marcus nodded, though he didn't look entirely convinced. ‘You do have a lot going on at the moment. Alright. Well, don't forget to take your lunch break. You look like you could use a rest.’
As the clock struck noon, Georgina finished up with the Schnauzer and grabbed her lunch bag. Instead of sitting in the grooming parlour and chatting with Marcus, she decided to pop next door into the hair salon to see her father’s new girlfriend, Christine. She called back over her shoulder to Marcus. ‘See you in a little while, there’s something I have to talk to Christine about.’
‘Okay...and make sure you sit down and rest, okay?’
Georgina smiled at Marcus’s concern. ‘I will.’
She made her way through the connecting door at the back of the parlour, next door to Christine's salon.
Christine looked up from her appointment book when she heard her footsteps, a warm smile spreading across her face. Georgina was grateful there were no customers. ‘Georgina. What a lovely surprise. Come on in, love.’
Georgina settled into one of the empty styling chairs, unwrapping her sandwich as Christine bustled about. ‘Fancy a cuppa, love? I have thirty minutes now until my next client.’ Georgina nodded.
A few minutes later, Christine was back. ‘So,’ she handed Georgina a steaming mug, 'what brings you over here for lunch? Not that I'm complaining, mind you. It's always nice to see you, but I sense more to your visit than a change of scenery.’
Georgina took a sip of tea, letting the warmth seep into her bones. ‘I just...I needed someone to talk to. And since you're dating Dad now, I thought...well, I hoped you might have some advice.’
Christine's eyes softened. ‘Of course, love. What's on your mind?’
Georgina took a deep breath. ‘It's about Matt. You remember me telling you how we met? When he helped push my car to his garage when it broke down?’
Christine nodded, a knowing smile playing on her lips. ‘Ah, yes. Quite the knight in shining armour, wasn't he?’
Georgina felt a blush creep up her cheeks. ‘Well, since then, we've become...close. Our friendship is growing rather quickly. He's been so supportive with the charity event planning, and there's definitely a connection between us. But...’
‘But?’ Christine prompted gently.
‘But I'm scared,’ Georgina admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. ‘Last night, we were collecting donations, and we ran into Veronica Hayes. You remember her from my school days?’
Christine's brow drew together sharply. ‘I do remember her. She’s that awful girl who used to bully you. I’ve seen her around the bay but thank goodness she doesn’t come here to get her hair done, otherwise I don’t think I’d be able to not bring the bullying in conversation and make her remorseful for her past interactions with you.’ Georgina’s brow furrowed. She was grateful Christine felt so protective of her, but also thankful Veronica didn’t use Christine’s salon. The last thing she wanted was for Christine to dredge up the past. ‘What's she got to do with Matt?’
Georgina recounted the previous evening's events—Veronica's flirting, Matt's apparent reciprocation, and the jealousy that had flared up inside her.
‘Oh, sweetheart,’ Christine said, reaching out to squeeze Georgina's hand. ‘First of all, you look exhausted. Are you getting enough rest?’
Georgina shook her head ruefully. ‘Not really. Between all my jobs and the event planning, I'm stretched pretty thin at the moment.’
‘That's probably not helping matters,’ Christine said gently. ‘Lack of sleep can make everything seem worse than it is. But let's talk about Matt. Do you really think he was flirting back, or could it be that your old insecurities about Veronica were colouring your perception?’
Georgina bit her lip, considering Christine’s words. ‘I-I'm not sure. Matt said I had nothing to worry about, but...’
‘But you're still worried,’ Christine finished for her. ‘Georgina, love, it's natural to feel vulnerable when you're starting to care for someone. Especially given everything you're juggling right now. But from what you've told me about Matt, he seems like a genuine, caring person. Don't let ghosts from your past ruin what could be a beautiful future.’
Georgina nodded slowly, turning Christine's words over in her mind. ‘You're right. I know you're right. It's just...hard to silence those doubts sometimes.’
Christine smiled sympathetically. ‘Of course it is. But that's part of opening your heart to someone. It's scary, but it can also be wonderfully rewarding. I had the same doubts and insecurities when the friendship between your father and I developed into something more.’
Georgina’s nodded her understanding. ‘And I didn’t help matters much did I, with my protective streak towards Dad?’
Christine laughed and reached for Georgina’s hand, squeezing it. ‘It was your natural instinct. I’m just glad you warmed to the thought of me caring for him in a different way.’
Georgina gave Christine a loving smile. ‘So am I, because you are the best thing that has happened to him in years.’
Christine’s bottom lip trembled. ‘I appreciate that. Thank you...and your dad is the best thing that has happened to me.’
They both looked at each other, affection clearly etched on their faces.
Georgina sighed. ‘I'm supposed to meet Matt after work to practice for our performance for the event. We’ll be performing as a duo. He’s playing guitar and I’m singing.’
‘Wow. That’s sounds wonderful.’
Georgina shrugged with a grimace. ‘But part of me wants to cancel. To protect myself, you know?’
Christine shook her head firmly. ‘Absolutely not. You go to that practice, Georgina Shelley. Don't let fear hold you back from something that could be amazing.’
Georgina nodded. ‘I know. You’re right Christine.’
Christine nodded with a smile and sipped her tea.
As Georgina finished her lunch, she felt some of the weight lift from her shoulders. Christine's advice had helped clear her mind, even if some doubts still lingered.
‘Thank you, Christine,’ she said, standing up to leave. ‘I don't know what I'd do without you.’
Christine stood up as well and pulled her into a warm hug. ‘That's what family is for, dear. And remember, you don't have to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders. It's okay to lean on others sometimes.’
As Georgina made her way back to Ruff to Regal, she felt a new resolve forming. She would go to the practice with Matt. She would open herself up to the possibility of something more, despite her fears. And maybe, just maybe, she would learn to trust not just Matt, but herself as well.
T he afternoon passed in a blur of fur and friendly dogs, and before she knew it, it was time to meet Matt.
With each step towards their meeting place at the community centre, Georgina felt her determination grow. Tonight, she decided, she would be honest with Matt about her feelings— her hopes, her fears, and everything in between. It was time to stop letting the past dictate her future.
As she rounded the corner and saw Matt waiting for her, guitar case in hand and a warm smile on his face, Georgina felt the last of her doubts begin to melt away. Whatever happened next, she was ready to face it—not alone, but with Matt by her side.
When he saw her, Matt's face lit up with a smile that made her heart skip a beat. ‘Hey there, songbird,’ he called out, his voice warm and welcoming. ‘Ready to make some music?’
Despite the last of her lingering doubts, Georgina found herself smiling back. ‘As ready as I'll ever be,’ trying to inject confidence into her voice.
They made their way into the community centre, their footsteps echoing in the quiet evening air. As Matt held the door open for her, Georgina caught a whiff of his cologne—a subtle, woodsy scent that made her pulse quicken.
Inside, was eerily quiet, their voices echoing slightly in the empty space. Matt flicked on the lights, illuminating the well-worn wooden floor and the slightly faded motivational posters on the walls.
‘So,’ Matt said, setting down his guitar case and rubbing his hands together, ‘where should we set up?’
Georgina glanced around, spotting a small raised platform at one end of the room. ‘How about over there? It'll give us a feel for performing on a stage.’ Matt nodded and led the way.
As they settled onto the platform, Matt began tuning his guitar. The soft, melodic sounds filled the room, creating a cocoon of intimacy around them. Georgina found herself relaxing, the tension from earlier in the day slowly ebbing away.
‘Alright,’ Matt said, looking up at her with a grin. ‘Let's start with Moon River . You ready?’
Georgina took a deep breath and nodded. As Matt's fingers danced across the strings, she closed her eyes and let the music wash over her. When she began to sing, her voice was soft at first, but grew stronger with each note.
As they moved through the song, Georgina opened her eyes to find Matt watching her, his gaze filled with admiration and something deeper that made her breath catch. To her surprise, he joined in, their voices blended seamlessly, the harmony sending shivers down her spine.
As the last notes faded away, a comfortable silence fell between them. Matt was the first to break it, his voice soft with awe. ‘Georgie, that was...incredible. We sound amazing together...as if it were meant to be.’
Georgina felt a blush creep up her cheeks. ‘You think so? I was worried I might still be a bit rusty.’
Matt shook his head emphatically. ‘No way. Your voice is beautiful. It's like-like honey and sunshine all mixed together.’
Georgina laughed, the sound echoing in the empty room. ‘Honey and sunshine? That's quite the description, Mr Harris.’
Matt grinned sheepishly. ‘Hey, I'm a mechanic, not a poet. But you know what I mean.’
As they continued to practice, trading quips and laughing at their occasional missteps, Georgina felt the last of her doubts melting away. This easy rapport, this connection with Matt—it felt real, solid in a way that Veronica's flirtations could never be.
Suddenly, a strange creaking sound echoed through the room, causing them both to jump. ‘What was that?’ Georgina whispered, her eyes wide.
Matt looked around, his brow furrowed. ‘I'm not sure. Maybe it's the ghost of failed community theatre productions past,’ he joked, wiggling his eyebrows dramatically.
Georgina giggled, playfully swatting his arm. ‘Don't even joke about that. This place is creepy enough when it's empty.’
Their laughter was interrupted by the sound of the door opening. To Georgina's dismay, Veronica sauntered in, dressed in form-fitting workout clothes that left little to the imagination.
‘Oh my. What a lovely surprise,’ Veronica exclaimed, her eyes lighting up as they landed on Matt. ‘I didn't expect to find anyone here this evening.’
Matt, ever polite, smiled and waved. ‘Hey there, Veronica. Just practicing for the charity event. What brings you here?’
Veronica stretched languidly, drawing attention to her toned physique. ‘Oh, I thought I'd get in some dance practice for my performance. I hope you don't mind if I join you?’
Before Georgina could object, Matt shook his head. ‘Not at all. There’s more than enough space in here. The more, the merrier, right Georgie?’
Georgina forced a smile, trying to ignore the knot forming in her stomach. ‘Right. Of course.’
As they resumed their practice, Veronica began her dance routine on the other side of the room. Despite her best efforts to focus on the music, Georgina couldn't help but notice Matt's occasional glances towards Veronica's graceful movements.
Each time she caught his eye wandering, Georgina felt a pang of jealousy, even though she admitted to herself it was even difficult for her not to look in Veronica’s direction, the way she was waving her arms and legs about. But still, Georgina tried to shake it off, reminding herself of Christine's advice and Matt's own reassurances, but the nagging doubt persisted.
As they finished another song, Georgina found herself stifling a yawn. The long days and sleepless nights were catching up with her, amplifying her insecurities.
‘You okay?’ Matt asked, concern evident in his voice.
Georgina nodded, forcing a smile. ‘Just a bit tired. Maybe we should call it a night?’
Matt looked disappointed but nodded understanding. ‘Of course. You've been working so hard lately. Get some rest, okay?’
As they packed up, Veronica sashayed over, a thin sheen of sweat giving her skin a glossy glow. ‘Leaving so soon? I was hoping to get your opinion on my routine, Matt.’
Georgina felt her heart sink as Matt hesitated, the stretch of his face showing he was clearly torn. ‘I...well, I suppose I could stay a few more minutes,’ he said, glancing apologetically at Georgina.
‘That's fine,’ Georgina said quickly, her voice sounding strained even to her own ears. ‘I should really get home anyway. Early start tomorrow and all that.’
Matt's brow furrowed, sensing something was off. ‘Are you sure? If you wait just a moment, I will walk you home...’
Georgina shook her head, already backing towards the door. ‘No need. I'll be fine. See you at work tomorrow.’
As she hurried out of the community center, Georgina could hear Veronica's lilting laugh echoing behind her. The cool night air hit her face, a stark contrast to the warmth of unshed tears prickling at her eyes.
She walked home quickly, her mind a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. Part of her wanted to turn back, to confront Matt and Veronica, to stake her claim. But another part, the part still bruised from past hurts, urged her to protect herself, to withdraw before she could be hurt again.
By the time she reached her front door, Georgina had made a decision. She would keep things professional with Matt from now on. No more duets, no more lingering glances or shared laughter. It was better this way, she told herself. Safer.
As she got ready for bed, her phone buzzed with a text from Matt:
Hope you got home safe.
Thanks for a great practice
session. Your voice is truly
amazing, Georgie. Can't
wait to see you tomorrow.
Sweet dreams.
Georgina stared at the message, her resolve wavering. Could she really push Matt away? Did she want to?
As she drifted off to sleep, Georgina's dreams were a confused jumble of singing and dancing, of Matt's warm smile and Veronica's knowing smirk. Tomorrow, she knew, would bring difficult decisions and potentially painful conversations. But for now, she let herself be carried away by the memory of harmonising with Matt, their voices blending in perfect unity, creating something beautiful and rare.