CHAPTER SEVEN
Wil knew the water would be brisk, but the sparkling silvery sea enticed him to go for a morning swim.
He’d parked his car on the esplanade, then walked down to the shore clasping a rolled up towel, and wearing a pair of swimming trunks under his clothes, eager to take Delphie up on her suggestion to enjoy the seaside.
A well–worn pathway, edged with grass and wild flowers, meandered to the shore and opened up to show a vista of light golden sand that stretched for miles along the coast.
The sea was calm, with barely a ripple on the surface. He imagined there would be blustery days when the waves would wash vigorously on to the shore. But this morning, beams of dazzling sunlight glistened across the sea, and he shielded his eyes as he gazed far into the distance, noticing a couple of white hull yachts with brightly coloured sails heading along the horizon.
He had a whole patch of shore to himself, so he shrugged off his shirt and trousers and left them on the sand beside his shoes and towel while he walked towards the sea. The sand beneath his feet felt great and the mild sea breeze gave no hint of how cold the water would be.
Wading in, he soon became accustomed to the brisk temperature, but it felt refreshing, so when he was thigh deep in it, he took the full plunge. Submerging, he quickly resurfaced, unable to wipe the smile off his face.
Then he started swimming along part of the coast, keeping level with the shore, before turning around and doubling back to where he’d started.
Striding out, dripping wet, he felt invigorated, as if he’d had a workout and fun at the same time. Wil was fit, and his dancing kept him limber, but adding a swim to his schedule was something he planned to continue until the lingering summer weather turned colder. And maybe then he’d still go for a swim.
Picking up his towel, he dried off and then draped it around his shoulders while he stood on the shore breathing in the fresh sea air. The yachts had disappeared into the silvery yonder, and pale sunlight peered out from the awakening blue sky.
He’d had a late night and an early morning, and it was weighing on his mind about his dinner date with Sienna, and Delphie’s date with Gareth. How quickly things had become complicated.
Shrugging off his concerns, he got dressed and walked back up to his car and drove home to shower and have breakfast.
Delphie sprinkled a handful of fresh raspberries on her breakfast cereal and sat at her kitchen table planning her day. Fully stocked with food, she didn’t need to venture to the main street for groceries, so she was free to spend the whole day at the farmhouse and the barn working on her paintings.
Staying at the farmhouse still felt like being on holiday, but with every day that passed, she was starting to feel like she was home. The traditional, rambling farmhouse was large enough to make room for one more.
Her grandparents had often said she was welcome to stay with them for as long as she wanted. Until now, this hadn’t been practical due to her work in the city. This thought brought up the offer she was due to discuss with Gareth over dinner. It jarred her. Was she stepping right back into the melee of work that she was trying to unwind from? Probably. But having slept on it, the opportunity still appealed to her.
Eating her breakfast, she decided to keep her options open and hear what Gareth had to offer at their dinner date.
After showering and making himself scrambled eggs for breakfast, Wil drove down to the dance studio to get on with his day.
He had new routines in mind and wanted to try out the choreography, but first, he downloaded the tango footage from the previous night and sent a copy to Delphie.
Wil phoned her as he pressed send. ‘I’ve given you a copy of our tango,’ he told Delphie when she picked up.
‘Wonderful. I promised my grandparents I’d send a copy to them.’
‘I think they’ll be impressed with your dancing. You nailed every move, even the last minute pirouettes.’
‘I had a great partner. But it was one of those nights when I felt that everything was just right. ’
‘It was,’ he confirmed, holding back from telling her the fire he sensed in her when they danced.
‘Are you working on new dance choreography today?’ she said. ‘A lot of your guests last night seemed eager for you to create routines for them.’
‘Yes, that’s my plan. I just wanted to make sure I gave you the tango video before I start work. And I took you up on your suggestion to make the most of the shore. I went swimming early this morning.’
‘Brrrrh!’ She shivered. ‘Was it brisk?’
‘Invigorating,’ said Wil.
Delphie laughed. ‘I really only meant for you to take a walk along the shore, enjoy the fresh sea air.’
‘You might have clarified that,’ he chided her lightly.
‘But you seemed keen to go swimming, so I didn’t want to dampen your enthusiasm.’
‘I’m aiming to go again before the weather turns colder and too wild. Care to join me one morning?’
The hesitation from Delphie made him laugh. ‘Ah, so it’s okay for me to take a dook in the cold sea while you’re all cosy in your farmhouse.’
‘I’ll think about it,’ she said in a non–committal tone.
‘That’s not a no,’ he said brightly. ‘But don’t hesitate for too long. You know how changeable the weather is in Scotland. We’re heading into the autumn fast. I want to enjoy the warmer days before the winter seasons kick in. Though I’m certainly planning to take a dip when spring comes around again.’
‘I’ll be long gone by then,’ she reminded him. ‘I won’t even be here by the time it’s winter. ’
His heart felt like it had taken a hit. ‘I keep forgetting that you’re on a different schedule. I’m here for a year. I need to remind myself that you’re going back to Edinburgh when your grandparents come home.’
She did too. When she was with Wil, it was hard not to think that they were both in town for quite a while.
‘My grandparents phoned me last night. They’re having such a romantic time in Paris.’
‘Maybe they’ll extend their holiday,’ he said hopefully. ‘Or encourage you to stay a little longer in the farmhouse when they come home.’
‘This was never my plan. That’s why I’m going to hear what Gareth has to offer regarding the artwork for the stage show. When I go back to Edinburgh, I’m going to need art and design assignments.’
‘Of course,’ he agreed. ‘You have to be practical about your career, though I think you have real talent to sell your paintings.’
‘That’s what I’d like to do. And the publicity from being the stage show’s graphic designer could help boost my career.’
‘It could,’ he agreed, not wanting to dissuade her. ‘But you could always come back to the town at a later date.’
‘Yes,’ she said, sounding as if she didn’t believe she would.
‘Well, I’d better push on with my day and let you get on with yours. ’
‘Thanks for the tango video, and I’ll think about taking you up on your offer of an invigorating swim,’ she said.
‘I hope your dinner meeting goes well with Gareth,’ he told her.
‘And yours with Sienna.’
After the call, Wil sat down at the side of the studio, put his dance shoes on and tried not to feel like he’d let something precious slip through his fingers.
Turning on some lively music, he worked off his doubts with dancing.
Ideas for the poster’s artwork kept interrupting Delphie’s day. While working on the paintings, she’d stop and sketch designs that sprang to mind. It made her day go in quickly, and she spent most of it painting and drawing in the barn.
Grabbing a sandwich for lunch, she’d then worked on until it was time to get ready for dinner with Gareth.
There was nothing in her grandmother’s wardrobes that she felt was suitable for having dinner in the restaurant. Flamboyant or fashionable? She opted for the latter, and found it in her own cache of clothes. A dress she’d worn for business meetings that spilled into social evenings.
Not quite cocktail, the dress had enough flair to boost her confidence when she faced–off with Gareth. Knowing him, he’d have planned a counter move for every objection she could think of. It was part of his job to bring ideas to fruition, so he was more experienced than she was when it came to making deals.
She wore the sapphire blue dress with heels that she was prepared to dig in if Gareth tried to sweet talk her into a deal she didn’t want.
The day had been warm and sunny, but as Delphie drove down to the hotel at the far end of the main street, thunderclouds filtered out the amber glow of the sunset.
When she stepped out of the car, the sky arched above the traditional, family–run hotel, and the clouds seemed to be picking up pace as she walked towards the entrance.
A warm welcome was always guaranteed, and although Delphie hadn’t dined there for a few years, she anticipated a delicious dinner. They specialised in Scottish and homely hospitality, and she was greeted with smiles and shown to her table as she walked through the reception to the restaurant.
Gareth was already seated at their table, and stood up to welcome Delphie.
‘I’m glad you decided to have dinner with me,’ he said. He looked particularly suave in a classic dark suit, but his shirt and tie had a dash of fashionable flair. Under other circumstances she would’ve admitted that Gareth was a handsome man, but she didn’t want to let her resolve slip. Getting involved with her ex wasn’t in her plans.
They were offered glasses of wine while they perused their menus, but they declined, preferring soft drinks. Delphie was driving, and she wanted to keep a clear head in case she needed to cross verbal swords with Gareth. He joined her in a refreshing fruit juice beverage.
Their polite chatter continued while their dinner was served. Delphie ordered rumbledethumps for her main course. A hearty dish made with mashed potatoes, turnip and cabbage, topped with Scottish cheddar cheese and greentails.
Gareth opted for salmon with neeps and tatties. The serving of turnip and potatoes was accompanied with a rich, buttery sauce.
The restaurant was fairly busy with most tables occupied. A table was reserved for Wil and Sienna.
Gareth began his pitch to Delphie as they ate their meal. ‘I’ve sent you a copy of the previous poster that the theatre used for their festive show last year.’
Delphie paused and checked her messages, and there it was. ‘I remember seeing this advertising the production, though I didn’t manage to see the show.’
‘We were both busy with work last Christmas.’ He shrugged resignedly. ‘We probably should’ve made more time for fun.’
Delphie nodded. ‘And here we are, having dinner while discussing business. How long are you staying at the hotel?’
‘A few more days. I really do want Wil’s help to choreograph routines for some of the dancers I’m working with.’
‘I love his choreography.’
Gareth picked up on Delphie’s enthusiasm. ‘Are you involved with Wil?’
‘If you mean romantically, no. ’
It was what he meant. ‘I’ve seen the way he looks at you.’
Delphie concentrated on her meal, reluctant to meet Gareth’s gaze. He was the shrewd type and could often read her well.
Before Gareth could pry further, Wil and Sienna arrived and were shown to their table.
Wil and Sienna nodded over to Delphie and Gareth, and they all acknowledged each other.
Wearing an expensive suit, shirt and tie, Wil looked handsome, and Delphie felt her heart react when she saw him.
Sienna wore a sleek black designer dress and exuded an air of confidence.
‘Is Sienna dancing in the show?’ Delphie said to Gareth.
‘It’s undecided. We’re concentrating on the contest.’
‘Do you think Sienna has a chance of winning?’
‘Yes, if she’d been partnered with Wil. Maybe now that she’s dancing with Steaphan. It’ll depend on whether Sienna can convince Wil to create their routine. That’s what they’re discussing over dinner.’
Delphie glanced across at them, unable to read whether they were getting along well or at odds.
As if sensing her, Wil looked over at Delphie, and for a moment they connected before Delphie continued her conversation with Gareth.
‘I sketched some ideas for the poster,’ said Delphie. ‘Not that I’m saying I’ll tackle the artwork, but...’
‘Can I have a look at the sketches? ’
She dug out her sketch pad from her bag and handed it to him.
Gareth smiled, put his cutlery aside and had a look at her drawings.
‘They’re rough,’ she said. ‘I sketched them while I was painting in the barn.’
‘These are terrific. I love the stars and the snow, the feel of winter, Christmastime from the past.’
‘I wasn’t sure if you were aiming for something more modern.’
‘No, this is the type of atmosphere audiences will love. The past, nostalgia, is what I’ve been discussing with the show’s director.’
‘Once the two lead dancers are announced, their photograph would fit into the design,’ said Delphie.
Gareth shook his head. ‘No, seeing the dance figures you’ve been painting, I’d want you to paint them. That’s why I said it would really help to promote your artwork.’
The conversation continued into the different details needed for the designs.
By the time their desserts were served up, Delphie had agreed to take on the task.
‘I’ll have an agreement drawn up and we’ll work out a deadline schedule,’ said Gareth, lifting up his glass. ‘Cheers.’
‘Cheers,’ said Delphie.
Wil was listening to Sienna talk about her plans for the contest, but he couldn’t help but notice the obvious agreement toasted between Delphie and Gareth. She’d taken on the artwork assignment .
‘So I’ll come by the studio tomorrow afternoon with Steaphan and Gareth to try those moves for the routine,’ said Sienna.
Wil nodded and ate his dinner.
Delphie and Gareth had both ordered cranachan, a delicious mix of rich cream, raspberries, a dash of whisky, honey and oatmeal. They tucked into their desserts and discussed details for the artwork, and dancing.
‘I’m planning to talk to Wil about having him create choreography for Sienna and Steaphan,’ Gareth told her. ‘We’re meeting him at his studio. Will you be there?’
‘No, I’ll be up at the farmhouse, painting.’
‘I thought you’d be at the studio, rehearsing your dance routines with Wil. Your tango was amazing. What else are you planning?’
Wil had walked over to their table and overheard the latter part of their conversation.
‘A romantic waltz,’ Wil said, cutting–in on their conversation. He smiled at Delphie urging her to agree with him.
‘Yes,’ said Delphie. ‘A sweet, romantic waltz.’
‘I’d love to have a look at that,’ Gareth said, sounding interested.
‘We’ll give you a peek tomorrow,’ Wil told him.
Gareth frowned. ‘Delphie said she wouldn’t be at the studio.’
‘I’ll pop down for a wee while,’ Delphie confirmed.
Wil smiled tightly. ‘I wondered if you’d both care to join us for a drink after dinner. ’
‘Yes,’ said Gareth.
Delphie nodded.
Wil went back to his table, and Sienna continued her conversation about what type of routines she wanted Wil to create for the contest without missing a beat.
‘Steaphan’s strengths are in his dynamic moves. That’s where we could both shine.’ Sienna gestured to emphasise her intent. ‘I want our choreography to explode on the dance floor.’
‘No slow romantic waltz elements.’
Sienna brushed even the thought of this away. ‘No, it needs to be powerful and potent.’
‘Few things are more powerful and potent than love and romance,’ he argued.
Sienna countered this with a flat no. ‘I want dynamic drama.’
‘Noted,’ Wil said, already having some moves in mind.
Sienna glanced over at Delphie and Gareth deep in conversation. She leaned forward and spoke in a confiding tone to Wil. ‘I’m sensing a reconnection between the two of them. I hope you won’t end up without a dance partner again.’
Wil’s outward response clashed with his true concerns. ‘Delphie wouldn’t do that to me. Besides, Gareth works auditioning dancers, helping to manage them. He’s not a dancer.’
Sienna dropped a piece of news that took Wil aback. ‘He used to be. Gareth danced all over the world.’
Wil leaned back in his chair. ‘I didn’t know that. ’
‘Gareth doesn’t fanfare his past. But that doesn’t mean he can’t dance rings around others if he needed to.’
The only rings that Wil was concerned about were the ones where Gareth was circling his way back into Delphie’s heart.
Wil surreptitiously sent a message to Delphie.
Don’t worry about the romantic waltz. We can show them some standard waltz moves .
Delphie glanced over at Wil as she replied. Okay .
While they all finished having dinner, a live band set up on the small stage at the far side of the restaurant’s function room that included a dance floor.
One of the hotel’s owners came over to Delphie and Gareth’s table. ‘We’re having a ceilidh night, Delphie. I hope you’ll be up giving it laldy. You were always a fine wee dancer.’ Smiling and meaning well, she hurried away to entice Wil and Sienna to take part. As Sienna and Gareth were guests, the hotelier knew they were into their dancing. And local gossip ensured they’d heard about Wil and his studio. Having four wonderful dancers in their restaurant was an opportunity not to be missed.
Delphie stared at Gareth. ‘Did you know this was a ceilidh night?’
Gareth’s expression matched his denial. ‘I’d no idea.’
It was then that Delphie noticed a poster on the wall advertising an evening of dinner and dancing.
The live band of two fiddle players and an accordionist, started to tune up .
Delphie looked over at Wil, feeling her uneasy expression matched his.
‘Shall we join Wil and Sienna?’ Gareth stood up and smiled at Delphie.
Delphie sensed trouble brewing. They weren’t obliged to join in with the ceilidh, but she had a feeling that the night was about to kick off with a bit of a Scottish stooshie.