A charmed life…

Maria Charm’s world might have recently crumbled, but that doesn’t mean she’s going to let it get her down.

Sure, her ex-husband broke her heart and decimated her trust, and while it would be so tempting to spend forever in her dressing gown, a tub of ice cream in one hand and a glass of Chardonnay in the other, Maria wants more from her new – single – life!

A make-over of her lovely little cottage on Daffodil Lane and a new job at Harriet’s café are just the distractions Maria needs to carve a new life in the country. One distraction she doesn’t need is Mr Tall, Brooding and Handsome from down the lane! Maria may only be in town temporarily, but there’s nothing temporary about the tingles she feels at gorgeous Brad’s touch...

After everything she’s been through, can Maria ever trust a man again? Could risking her heart with Brad lead to a charmed life on Daffodil Lane?

Praise for REBECCA PUGH

‘a warm, heart-warming, enticing story.’

– Sophie, Reviewed the Book

‘I really loved this book from start to finish, I really didn’t want to put it down, it’s what a story should be, a lovely modern fairytale of a book.’

– Candy Hart

‘I loved this debut novel and found it to be a comforting and enjoyable read perfect for cosying up in front of a warm fire.’

– Sincerely Book Angel

‘It was entirely satisfying and heartfelt.’

– Paris Baker’s Book Nook

‘What I thought was boy meets girl is so not the case. There’s romance, mystery, and heartbreak.’

– Bookaholic Babe

Also by Rebecca Pugh

Return to Bluebell Hill

A Home in Sunset Bay

Down on Daffodil Lane

Rebecca Pugh

Copyright

HQ

An imprint of HarperCollinsPublishers Ltd.

1 London Bridge Street

London SE1 9GF

First published in Great Britain by HQ in 2016

Copyright © Rebecca Pugh 2016

Rebecca Pugh asserts the moral right to be identified as the author of this work.

A catalogue record for this book is available from the British Library.

This novel is entirely a work of fiction. The names, characters and incidents portrayed in it are the work of the author’s imagination. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, events or localities is entirely coincidental.

All rights reserved under International and Pan-American Copyright Conventions. By payment of the required fees, you have been granted the non-exclusive, non-transferable right to access and read the text of this e-book on-screen. No part of this text may be reproduced, transmitted, downloaded, decompiled, reverse engineered, or stored in or introduced into any information storage and retrieval system, in any form or by any means, whether electronic or mechanical, now known or hereinafter invented, without the express written permission of HarperCollins.

E-book Edition © June 2016 ISBN: 9780008193669

Version date: 2018-07-23

REBECCA PUGH

grew up in the green county of Shropshire, with a mind full of fairy-tales and happy endings. At twenty-two, Rebecca’s own story took a fairy-tale-like turn and her dream came true. With her faithful companions: Bonnie the dog, her partner, and her gigantic family by her side, Rebecca is sharing her stories with readers who enjoy falling in love and losing themselves in beautiful, fictional worlds. Rebecca Pugh is the author of women’s fiction and romance, her all-time favourite genres. After all, who doesn’t enjoy a good swoon?

Acknowledgements

Special thanks to my wonderful editor Victoria Oundjian and the entire team at HQ Digital UK. Without the help of these people, this book wouldn’t have made it this far. Thank you also to the incredibly enthusiastic and supportive book bloggers and readers who take the time to share in the excitement with me. You know who you are and you really are fantastic. I can’t forget to mention my wonderful family and friends, and of course my partner and Bonnie the dog who, again, make this such a joy. Thank you all.

Dedication

To anyone who’s ever needed some time-out, a break, or just the chance to see what you’re really made of.

Contents

Cover

Blurb

Praise

Book List

Title Page

Copyright

Author Bio

Acknowledgements

Dedication

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Epilogue

Excerpt

Endpages

About the Publisher

Chapter One

‘See? I knew it would be a good idea. This place is great.’ Robert admired the café, while Maria lingered beside him, nervously twiddling her fingers. The absence of her wedding ring was still taking some getting used to. More often than not, she’d unconsciously touch the finger it had once sat snug on, and at the vacant space, her heart would drop. She glanced down now, to check that it definitely wasn’t there, that the last couple of months hadn’t all been a bizarre dream she was waiting to wake up from. No, no wedding ring decorated her finger. Somewhere in the back of her mind, she had a faint recollection of the night she’d torn it off and lobbed it across the kitchen. It was a wine-fuelled memory, hazy and blurred and included tears aplenty. It was real though, and it had happened.

As she listened to her brother wittering on, Maria knew he was trying just that little bit too hard. She was sure he felt like he was accompanying a child on their first day at big school, easing them into a brand new world with care and consideration. His voice, usually one of a much deeper baritone, was over-bright, and Maria imagined this was how Rob would speak to his twin daughters, Kelly and Kayleigh, when trying to coax them into the bath before bedtime. She had to admit, despite loving her younger brother dearly, the whole thing was rather excruciating. She was a grown woman, for crying out loud! A grown woman who was supposed to be able to take care of herself but, then again, she’d never had much experience of that, had she? Still, it was no excuse and she wished she’d been able to do this morning by herself rather than with Rob, her pillar of support, by her side.

While walking through the sun-dappled town, just a stone’s throw away from the cottage she was staying in on Daffodil Lane, Maria and Rob had stumbled upon the café during their search for breakfast.

Neither of them had noticed the cafe at first, sat snug as it was between a bustling butcher’s and a fresh veg shop. Now here they stood, brother and sister, wrapped in the cosy warmth that the café had immediately offered up, like a soft embrace, as soon as they’d stepped through the door. A tinkling bell above the door had indicated their arrival, yet even that gentle sound had made Maria flinch.

As nice as the café was, Maria had the insane urge to hurry back outside into the cool, fresh air, to ground herself. She risked a surreptitious glance at the door, but in the end, she decided against it. After all, what would running off achieve? She knew that Rob, as easy-mannered as he was, would come bolting after her and possibly drag her back inside kicking and screaming if that was what it took.

Maria’s bad mood was nothing to do with the cafe. It really was rather lovely, but she wasn’t in the right frame of mind for hellos and how do you dos. How could she be when, just a few weeks before, she’d signed the divorce papers for her failed marriage? Never mind cheerful greetings, she realised that she wasn’t in the mood for anything, including merry jaunts into town. She would have much preferred to remain shut away in the cottage, ignoring the fact that life was continuing around her. Still, she supposed it was best that she got out and took a look around, rather than continue in the hermit-like way she’d recently taken up, hiding from everyone and everything. Plus, she supposed this made Rob feel good about himself, that he was helping his sister when she needed it most. Still, she couldn’t shake off the uncomfortable feeling that, if anything, it should have been the other way around. Big sister looking after little brother. Not that Rob would ever be in the same position as she’d managed to find herself in, she thought. He was so settled in family life and blissful domesticity; he had his beautiful wife Rosanna and adorable daughters, not forgetting his fulfilling career as a music teacher at his daughters’ school.

Maria loved him to the moon and back, and could only thank him and appreciate his efforts. He had her best interests at heart, bless him, and to begrudge that wasn’t right, no matter how grumpy she felt.

That morning, Rob had turned up completely out of the blue and frogmarched her from the cottage, after ordering her to take a shower and get dressed. She knew it was bad because those were the sorts of things a person should want to take care of without needing to be told to do so by someone else, especially their brother. He’d also thrown into the mix a nice little remark on how rubbish she looked which hadn’t done much for her already crumbling self-confidence. Maria wasn’t sure whether she was thankful or annoyed in regards to his presence, but then there was still time to make up her mind. One part of her was grumbling over his interference while the other adored him for it, because she knew it was the kick up the backside she needed. The moping about and self-pity was beginning to bore her but she’d fallen into a pit she couldn’t get out of, no matter how much she tried to claw her way up the side.

Rob found a table, and Maria swallowed nervously. Being in the cafe meant inviting curiosity, which wasn’t what she wanted at all. She wanted the opposite. Maria wanted to tiptoe about in the shadows and be left to her own devices. Rob, as always, had other ideas – and didn’t seem to care whether she agreed with them or not, tugging her along on a wave of enthusiasm which they didn’t quite share.

‘This is exactly what we were looking for,’ Robert declared happily as he rubbed his hands together with relish. ‘Warm, inviting and…’ he sat down and snatched up a menu from the table, ‘they have a killer menu. Spot-on, this is.’ He added a nod for good measure and pointed towards the opposite chair, indicating for Maria to sit down.

She joined him and, once comfortable, glanced about the cafe. He was right, it was lovely, but lovely or not, it didn’t change how she felt inside. She knew that it bordered on ridiculous, the fact that she was worried to such an extent about merely heading into town. After all, people did this every single day. She eyed her brother but his face was hidden behind the menu he was scanning. His eyes swept over the laminated page hungrily. He was one of those infuriating people who didn’t seem to gain a pound no matter what he ate and how often, whereas Maria was sure that she would put on weight from merely looking at a slice of chocolate cake. She was suddenly aware of her thighs bunching together on the seat and knew she’d let herself down recently. She had gained a few pounds but she had her reasons. Tubs of ice cream and glasses of wine had never felt so reassuring, and they also managed to do a wonderful job of taking her mind off all of the things that troubled her. Like what she’d do with her life now that it only included herself, and who she’d spend every single day loving.

While she waited for Rob to finish his perusal of the menu, Maria thought back over her situation and felt another part of herself crumble away. It had been three weeks since she’d arrived at Daffodil Lane, and within that time she hadn’t left the cottage once. Thankfully, her mother’s friend, Geraldine, who owned the cottage, had popped by to stock up on food and other necessities that Maria might need, so she’d managed to survive quite well without having to step outside the cottage door. She didn’t want to meet new people and make new friends. That wasn’t what the trip was about. All she wanted was time to herself. Time to sit down and think about what she’d do next – if she could manage to clear her head long enough to do so.

There had been no chance of that happening back home, which was why she’d come here in the first place. There was always someone there, offering guidance and advice – one friend even going so far as urging Maria to ‘get back in the saddle’. She’d been unable to form a reply and instead excused herself. Get back in the saddle indeed, she’d grumbled while stalking off. The very thought had Maria quaking in her boots (or rather, slippers, which she’d become rather fond of instead of actual shoes). She’d needed to get away.

Where she was staying now, Maria couldn’t have done much better in terms of beauty and stunning scenery. The village of Loland Green was tucked away in the lush Shropshire countryside. Until Geraldine had mentioned the area, Maria had been oblivious to its existence. Afterwards, curiosity getting the better of her, she’d looked it up online, and had been pleasantly surprised by the visual results. It was very… green. Very green, indeed. To Maria, the fact that it appeared quite isolated from the surrounding areas was a massive bonus. And the cottage was gorgeous, nestled on Daffodil Lane, the aged exterior swathed in climbing ivy and glorious rambling roses that only seemed to be growing wilder with the passing days.

After a horrendous couple of weeks following the discovery of her husband, Mike’s affair, Maria had had no choice but to go back to her mother’s house seeking refuge. She’d let Mike remain in their home, unable to stay there herself. Looking back now, perhaps she should have been firmer and told him to sling his hook. She’d been too shaken up to be assertive or in control at the time. She’d needed the easy way out so she’d taken it and ran back to the woman who’d always known her best.

Heading back to Ellen’s had been humiliating to say the least. Ellen Charm had fussed around her as if Maria were a child again, gradually becoming more and more unbearable by the day, although Maria knew that was how Ellen showed that she cared. She was motherly and nurturing, and sometimes that was interpreted as fussy and overbearing.

Maria remembered the day Geraldine had popped by and offered her the use of the Daffodil Lane cottage. Still in her pyjamas with her hair un-brushed and dirty socks on her feet, Maria had merely grunted in response to Geraldine’s suggestion that she get away while all this blew over. How could almost eleven years of marriage merely ‘blow over’? It wasn’t a slight slip-up, it was the end of an era. Her married life to the man she’d said her wedding vows to had been smashed into smithereens, and Geraldine thought it would all blow over?

Maria had been tempted to tell Geraldine to bugger off but, as always, Ellen had the last word.

‘Oh Maria, stop with the self-pity. The trembling voice. It doesn’t suit you, darling. Geraldine has offered you the perfect opportunity to get away and enjoy some “you” time, and you’re refusing it? No. I don’t think so. You may be thirty-two but you will listen to me and you’ll listen good, do you understand? You will take this offer. You will go to Loland Green, and you will sort yourself out while you’re there. Mike was a selfish bastard, that much is true, but I refuse to let my only daughter crumble into dust because of a man’s lack of control and loyalty. In case you’re forgetting my dear, I’ve been through this too and I can tell you now, it wasn’t easy, especially with two children, but I’m still alive and kicking, and you will be too.’ Ellen had taken a calm sip of her tea then, as if she hadn’t just said what she had.

Maria didn’t think she’d ever heard her mother make a speech like that before, with so much passion behind her words. She’d quickly agreed to Geraldine’s offer. Now here she was in Loland Green.

‘Cooked breakfast for two?’ Rob peeped over the top of his menu and waggled his brows up and down, bringing Maria back to the present. ‘And is it two sugars you take with your coffee? I can’t remember.’

She nodded in reply and Rob rose from the table and headed towards the counter against the furthest wall. It looked resplendent with a display of floral teacups arranged artistically upon a cake-stand, conjuring up an image of a dollhouse she’d had when she was little.

Maria watched Rob as he weaved through the tables, approaching the counter and the woman behind it with pure confidence. He walked like no one could stand in his way, which was such a huge contrast to the shrunken slouch she’d become. She used to be confident too. Not in an arrogant way, but in a way that ensured she felt good about herself. She’d been confident of everything, actually. But now? She felt like she wasn’t even a quarter of the woman she’d once been and it broke her heart even more.

A glass cabinet stood to one side of the counter, and the shelves within housed rows of deliciously moist slices of cake. She admired them from her seat. Behind the counter but reachable by the customers was a small fridge with packaged sandwiches and bottles of fruit juice and water. The walls were chocolate brown with delicate accents of plum, the colours working surprisingly well, Maria thought to herself, as she continued to look around. There was a small log-burner in the corner, although it wasn’t lit. She could imagine it made the place even cosier when crackling away during the colder months, with the lights turned low and the bitter frost shut outside.

Rob returned to the table. ‘Right. All done. Shouldn’t be too long. Drinks are being brought over in just a sec. So tell me, how have you been? It feels like it’s been ages since I last saw you. Well, it has been ages.’ He settled back in the chair, waiting to hear all about it. He looked good, Maria noticed. Skin glowing and clear, and his dark hair styled into place neatly. She remembered him as a gangly teenager, and it brought a smile to her lips. He’d gone through a phase of wearing a long, greasy fringe that partially covered his face, and a taste in music that had constantly made the walls of their childhood home vibrate. How he’d changed as he’d grown up. From that teenager Rob had grown into a young, smart man, and following that, a role-model husband and father. And the fringe was, thankfully, long gone.

It had been a while since they’d last spoken. Before she’d taken off for Loland Green with her suitcase packed, Maria hadn’t exactly been the most sociable of people and it hurt to think that she’d shut him and the rest of her family out. She’d never intended to do such a thing but at the time, she hadn’t been able to stop and make herself think about it properly. ‘I’m okay,’ she answered, avoiding eye contact, but it was no use. If she was hoping to make him believe that she was absolutely fine then she may as well have given up right there and then. Sighing, she turned her face towards the window, and it provided her with a perfect view of the street outside. She couldn’t help feeling that the cover Rob had managed to sort out at work in order to come and see her had been for nothing. He was a man on a mission, it seemed.

It had grown busy since they’d arrived. Parents ushered their children towards the school just around the corner, and people laden down with shopping bags from the supermarket further up the street hurried past, some with a friend beside them and some alone, busy and rushing to their next destination. It was nice, watching the place come to life like this. It made her feel as if she was part of it all again, life happening all around her.

‘Terrible,’ she admitted eventually.

Rob studied her with concern. There really was no point in lying to him. He knew her inside out, and even trying to lie would make her feel so very guilty. They’d always been close and he’d confided in her so many times, she couldn’t shut him out any longer.

‘I guess you could say I’m not coping very well,’ she added, realising that he was waiting for her to elaborate. It was the understatement of the century. She wasn’t coping at all. She felt like she’d lost whole months of her life somewhere along the way since it had all gone wrong. Days of darkness and sadness trailed out from behind her, like chunks of bread helping her to find her way home. She was too deep into the woods to return to the person she’d once been, and the reality of being divorced from the man she’d planned to spend the rest of her life with didn’t make sense to Maria. She felt like she’d suddenly swapped lives with someone else. One thing that constantly poked at her was the fact that she didn’t think she deserved this sort of pain. It was a childish thing to consider, but she’d been such a good person throughout her life. Always there for everyone else when they needed someone to confide in. A compliment that had been thrown her way many times was that she was a good listener. She was down to earth, happy and always full of good advice. But it seemed that now, when she most needed it, she was unable to help herself.

‘I didn’t think so.’ Rob waited patiently for her to continue, giving her the time she needed to properly explain how she felt.

‘I just don’t know what to do now.’ Maria shook her head. ‘Any future plans I had involved Mike, and now that I know he’s not going to be included in any of them, I feel lost. As if I suddenly have no direction in life. I’m so angry at him, Rob. So, so angry.’ She blinked away the tears that threatened to surface. It was a wonder she had any left, considering how often and how hard she’d cried recently. ‘I suppose most of all, I feel like an idiot. For being loyal, for worshipping the ground the stupid man walked on, and then to find out he was playing away with some bloody tart from work. It’s crushing.’

‘You’re not an idiot.’ Rob’s jaw was set. ‘You trusted the man you married, Maria. He made vows to you on your wedding day, vows which you believed he meant. Any woman would have done the same. He’s the idiot. Not you.’ He closed his eyes momentarily, and Maria wondered what was going through his mind right then. Was he angry too? She guessed he was. He and Mike had been good friends for a while, heading out to the pub for a pint and to watch the football every now and then.

Maria sighed. She certainly felt like an idiot. She’d never felt more stupid in her life. ‘You’re right. I know you are. I thought our marriage meant more to him than that, but clearly I was wrong. I want so desperately to stop thinking about him, about the why, but it’s so damn hard. I know I need to move on, to focus on me now. Being here is helping, and I’m grateful to Geraldine for letting me stay at the cottage. I don’t have to worry about bumping into him in the street, which is a relief. I was always terrified of that while I was back home. Can you imagine?’ A shiver wriggled its way up her spine. What would they have said to each other, she wondered? It would no doubt be awkward, an interaction involving mostly silence and not knowing where to put themselves. She’d much prefer to stay out of his way, to not put herself in that position at all, actually. The very thought of it was mortifying and she couldn’t promise herself that she wouldn’t crumble into a heap on the pavement and cry her heart out for all to see.

The divorce had been simple, if you could call the breakdown of a marriage simple. There’d been no need for solicitors to become involved, which she’d feared. A war in court was not how she’d wanted it to end. It had been efficient, and before she’d even known it, the papers were signed and they were free from each other.

There was a clatter on the table as their drinks were delivered then.

‘Here you are, folks. Sorry for the delay. I’ve managed to find myself in a bit of a pickle. My waitress walked out on me this morning, so it’s just me bumbling along at the moment. I’m Harriet, by the way. I should have introduced myself sooner.’

‘It’s no problem,’ Rob smiled handsomely. ‘In fact, there wasn’t a delay at all.’

‘Your breakfast shouldn’t be too far behind. I’ll pop it over once it’s ready.’

‘Thank you,’ said Maria. Harriet’s smile reached her eyes, before she returned to the counter.

Maria took a tentative sip of the rich brew. It was the first decent cup of coffee she’d had in weeks. There was a shiny coffee machine back at the cottage but she hadn’t had the patience to figure out how to work it. What buttons did you press if all you were after was a standard coffee? Thankfully, she’d found a jar of instant in one of the cupboards, settling for that. It wasn’t the best but it was something at least.

When Maria had turned the key in the cottage door and stepped inside, she’d taken a curious wander through the home and found the cupboards and fridge-freezer stocked up. Even the sheets on the bed had been freshly washed and smelt divine. The place itself though – and Geraldine had said as much – was in desperate need of a lick of paint. The walls were dull and the paint peeling, and as soon as Maria had come face to face with them, she’d known a splash of colour was just what the cottage needed.

‘What’s next?’ asked Rob.

‘I told you, Rob. I’m completely clueless. I suppose I’ll take the summer and use it as time to recuperate. I said I’d do up the cottage for Geraldine as a thank you. I need to pull myself back together and get used to life without Mike.’ She shrugged. ‘That’s all I can do really, isn’t it?’ She couldn’t, no matter how hard she tried, think ahead to after the summer had ended. When she did, it felt like looking into a void, empty of people and plans. It was a horrible feeling, one she didn’t quite know what to do with. Perhaps ignore it? That seemed like the best option.

‘You’ll be fine, I know you will.’

‘I hope so.’ She tried to smile at Rob gratefully.

‘And try not to think about him,’ Rob added. ‘He doesn’t deserve even a second of your time.’ He reached across the table to squeeze her hand comfortingly. ‘We’re all here for you. Me, Mum, Rosanna and the girls. You don’t need him. You’re much better off here, away from it all, for the summer at least. Everyone’s still asking about you, about how you’re coping. You’d hate it.’ The corner of his mouth quirked.

‘I would,’ she agreed quietly, nursing the warm mug with both hands. Her fingers curled around it, seeking comfort. That was another thing that had begun to get on her nerves. The sympathy had been overwhelming, especially from her mother’s friends. Pats on the back and sad smiles by the bucket-load. She couldn’t stand it. She’d hoped, foolishly, that people would manage, for the first time ever, to keep their noses out of her business, but they hadn’t. Everyone knew what had happened. She guessed that was partly to do with Ellen and her network of friends, who always seemed to know everything about everyone. There were no secrets in her life, and Maria hated that. At least here, no one had the slightest clue about her.

‘I never liked him anyway, not really. Plus, you deserve better. Move on, forget him.’

Easy for you to say. She knew he meant well but when it wasn’t happening to you, it was easy to hand out advice. It was okay for her brother with his perfect family, job and home, not that she would ever hold that against him. She couldn’t be happier that Rob had such a wonderful life and that she was such a massive part of it, but she didn’t think he had the slightest clue of what she was going through and she’d never wish it upon him.

For Maria, it was as if her whole world had been shredded into a tiny million pieces right before her eyes and there wasn’t a single thing she could do about it. She felt lost, out of place, as if she were floating higher and higher into the sky, like a balloon that had been released by the hand that had once held her so tightly. She needed to anchor herself again, she just didn’t know how and, at the end of it all, she knew one thing was for certain. She needed to move on.

When breakfast was delivered, Maria inhaled the smell of the food deeply and tried to remember the last time she’d felt as ravenous. She wasn’t sure what it was but, all of a sudden, the idea of tucking into the plate of food sat before her, completely inviting, was more than appealing. Perhaps it was the way Rob snatched up his cutlery and tucked in as if he hadn’t eaten for days? Or perhaps it was simply her surroundings and new circumstances, coupled with the fresh air her lungs had taken in that morning? Whatever it was, her stomach untangled itself from the tension it had been victim to and, after the first mouthful of egg and bacon, she was unable to stop herself from shovelling the rest into her mouth at an unbelievable speed. Using the last slice of buttery toast to mop up the puddle of baked bean juice, Maria sat back in her seat and gave her full stomach room to breathe.

‘Now that’s what I call breakfast.’

Rob grinned. ‘Blimey, you wolfed that down, didn’t you?’

Finished and ready to go, Maria and Rob back went back towards the counter. ‘How much do I owe you?’ he asked, rifling through his wallet.

Harriet glanced up from what she was doing. Maria tried to take a closer look, and realised she was writing out a sign for a job vacancy. She returned the lid to the black marker pen she’d been using with a little pop and smiled. She took payment and handed over a receipt.

‘Hey.’ Rob nudged Maria in the side with his elbow and nodded at the sign. ‘That’d be perfect for you, just while you’re here. Keep you busy when you’re not painting back at the cottage.’

Harriet’s eyes sparkled with promise as she looked at Maria hopefully. ‘It’s only a temporary position, mind you. I’ve got everything handled any other time, but when summer arrives, it’s much harder to stay on top of it all. The place gets so busy, you wouldn’t believe it.’

Maria tried to laugh it off and shook her head quickly. ‘No, I don’t think so.’ In her mind, she could clearly hear Mike roaring with laughter. He would think it hilarious if she, Maria, who’d been a ‘kept’ woman since they’d met, now took up the role of a waitress. The sound of his evil cackling rattled around her mind, making her nerves surge back to the surface once more. Swallowing, she tried to shove Mike into a box right at the very back of her mind and added a padlock for good measure. He was gone for good now. History.

‘Why not?’ Rob persisted cheerfully, seeing no problem with the idea. ‘You’d be great, and with you only staying here for the summer it’s perfect. I think you should go for it. Help Harriet here out!’

And I think you should shut up, Robert, Maria thought to herself, with a smile plastered onto her face so that they couldn’t see what she was really thinking. ‘I don’t know,’ she said slowly, as if mulling it over, when she already knew the answer. ‘Maybe.’

‘Oh, it’s all right. Don’t feel like you have to,’ Harriet laughed heartily. ‘But, if you do happen to change your mind, don’t hesitate to pop back.’

Maria smiled, grateful at Harriet for noticing her discomfort. ‘I will do, thank you. I’ll no doubt be back for breakfast anyway,’ she laughed.

‘Goodbye,’ Harriet waved, as Maria and Robert left the café.

*

‘That wasn’t so bad, was it?’ Rob said before downing the last of his coffee and placing the empty cup into the sink with a chink against the others.

They were back at the cottage and Maria was putting away the shopping she’d picked up on the way back to Daffodil Lane. Her stomach felt deliciously full after their breakfast. She was still surprised at how much she’d managed to eat that morning, wondering whether it was the very area itself working its magic on her. It was a completely ridiculous notion but something had certainly changed that morning.

‘It was lovely,’ she agreed with a smile, and she meant it. ‘Exactly what I needed. If you hadn’t turned up today, I’d probably still be wandering about in my dressing gown. It’s done me the world of good to get out and into town. I feel much better for it. Thank you.’

‘Right,’ he announced after a quick glance at his watch. ‘I best be off. It’s my turn to cook dinner tonight. Teriyaki chicken.’ He rubbed his hands together in anticipation. ‘The girls and Rosanna love it. And you’re welcome, by the way. It’s a stunning place. I’m glad you’re tucked away here for the summer. I reckon you’ll be back to yourself before you know it.’

Maria walked Rob to the door, feeling sad to see him go but looking forward to relaxing. She hadn’t even begun to gather the bits and pieces for the decorating yet. She had no idea where to begin with it. Still, it would be good to turn her mind to something else, and despite having not been expecting Rob to turn up on the doorstep that morning, she’d actually really enjoyed his company.

‘Come here.’ On the doorstep, Rob grabbed her head roughly and yanked her towards him. He planted a loud kiss on her forehead and laughed when she protested.

‘Ow, Rob!’ she screeched, trying desperately to wriggle free and push his hands away. ‘Get off! I’m older than you, don’t forget that, will you?’

He stepped backwards towards the car. ‘I know you are, but you’re still my sister. See you soon, all right? Take care of yourself. Oh, and Maria? Why don’t you have a think about that job in the café? You never know what might come of it.’ He hopped into the car then, and reversed off the driveway, before trundling up the road and disappearing round the corner.

Maria watched him go before turning to take in Daffodil Lane itself. It was, she had to admit, a gloriously pretty area. The cottages were almost identical. One had a bike propped up beneath the kitchen window and another had a garden absolutely overflowing with gorgeous wildflowers that wouldn’t have looked out of place in a watercolour painting above someone’s fireplace. Surrounded by thick woodland and with the cornflower-blue sky above, Maria began to feel that she was on holiday in some far-off land, which she knew had been the point of coming here in the first place. It was a relief to be away from the house she’d shared with Mike for so long. She wondered if he’d packed up his things and left yet. The very thought of going back there sent her stomach rolling. She disappeared into the coolness of the cottage to stop herself from feeling dizzy and light-headed.

Stepping inside, she walked down the narrow hall which led into the conservatory at the back of the cottage. It provided her with a perfect view of the never-ending, rolling green fields reaching out into the distance. The sight was relaxing and, with a sigh of relief that the morning had been successful – in that she hadn’t had a meltdown or burst into tears – she plopped down into one of the wicker chairs and allowed the sun to warm her face through the windows. She kicked off her shoes and stretched her legs out, propping her feet upon the oak table in the centre of the small room. She wriggled her toes and felt calm in the simple beauty of her surroundings. Yes, she could get used to this. No worries. No pressure. Just the journey of getting back to her original self. It would no doubt be hard, but oh-so worth it in the end. The happy, carefree Maria who she missed dearly could be just around the corner.

Stupid Mike. She’d never forgive him for what he’d done to her, what he’d done to their relationship. But it was time to let go and focus on herself, Maria promised, as she closed her eyes and relished the feel of the sun warming her cheeks through the glass.

Yes, by the time summer came to its end, she vowed to be happy once more.

Chapter Two

It hadn’t taken Maria long to decide on visiting the café again the next morning. There was something about the place, perhaps even about Harriet, that Maria felt pulled towards, like a magnet. One thing was for sure, the food she’d eaten had been incredible; she could already feel the stirrings of hunger within her stomach at just the thought of eating it again. Also, fluttering about in her mind was the vacancy. She knew she shouldn’t have allowed the thought of Mike laughing at her to put her off, but it was difficult to ignore. Still, she wasn’t completely decided on it. It was just there, taunting her, refusing to let her concentrate.

Getting herself a part-time job just for the summer wasn’t such a bad idea though, was it? Besides sprucing up the cottage, she didn’t have anything else to do in the area, except perhaps take woodland walks and wander about in the sunshine. And, she had to admit, she did like the café and the owner. It would be a wonderful place to work. Was she up to it? Well, she couldn’t be sure of that, but she’d always been a believer in giving things a bloody good go and hoping for the best. She was friendly, approachable, and once she got to grips with something there was no stopping her. Maybe it wasn’t such a bad idea after all? She nibbled her lip as she thought some more about it. It deserved at least a bit of consideration.

First though, before any of that, she’d promised to give Ellen a call to update her on the cottage and how she was getting on. Still in her dressing gown and with a cup of coffee fresh from the shiny machine in the kitchen (which she’d finally managed to figure out), she took herself back into the conservatory which was quickly becoming a favourite room of hers. It must have been a recent addition to the cottage as it hadn’t yet been painted or carpeted, although it didn’t put her off in the slightest. Maria curled her legs up beneath her as she picked up her mobile phone, her feet cold from the floor, and called Ellen.

‘Hi, Mum. It’s only me. Just checking in.’ She twisted the belt of the dressing gown around her finger and became fixated by the lush garden visible through the windows, bordered with bright flowers springing up from the soil. ‘I thought I’d give you a call let you know how I’m getting on in Loland Green.’

‘Maria! It’s wonderful to hear from you. In fact, I was just thinking about you and how you were getting on. How’s the cottage? Is it lovely? Rob mentioned he drove up to see you yesterday. He said you seem to be doing okay, so that’s good, and Geraldine wanted me to pass on a message too. She said there’s extra toilet roll in the airing cupboard upstairs, as well as fresh bed sheets.’

Maria smiled to herself. ‘Okay, tell Geraldine I said thank you. I’ll make sure I remember in case of an emergency. The cottage is gorgeous, although in need of a bit of a spruce-up, like Geraldine mentioned. It’s a bit dull inside but nothing a good lick of paint won’t sort out. I’ve a few ideas in mind for the rooms.’

‘Oh, yes. Have you got started on that yet?’

‘Erm… Yeah. I’ve made a small start.’ She didn’t want Ellen to report back to Geraldine with a negative to that question. The truth was, she hadn’t yet found the motivation to get going. It was coming though, she could feel it. The longer she spent looking around the cottage, the more she wanted to add her own touch to the place. She made a mental note to get out and grab the bits and pieces she’d need. She had a feeling summer would pass by in the blink of an eye, so she really did need to make some sort of start on it, have the paint in the cottage at least. ‘I think you’d love it here,’ she said quickly, moving the topic of conversation along. ‘I was thinking to myself just yesterday about how I’m beginning to feel as if I am actually on holiday. I’m currently in the conservatory looking through the window and there are green fields for as far as the eye can see. There’s a posh coffee machine in the kitchen and I figured out how to work it this morning, so that’s a bonus. I can see myself becoming a little too attached.’ She wondered, briefly, why on earth Geraldine and her husband hadn’t moved here permanently. If it was Maria’s, she knew she certainly would have. She laughed, realising how alien it felt to do so. She wanted to laugh again, but thought it might seem odd so didn’t.

‘Oh, that’s fantastic news,’ enthused Ellen. ‘And are there things to do during the day? Shops? Cafes? That sort of thing? I can imagine you might get a bit bored with just the cottage to keep you busy.’

‘Well, seeing as you’ve mentioned it, there is a lovely little café me and Rob went to yesterday. Harriet’s Place, it’s called. Lots of shops too, so I have everything I need. In fact, once I’ve got off the phone to you, I’m going to get dressed and head back to the cafe. They serve the most delicious food, and you should see the cakes on offer too. Very yummy.’ She didn’t want to mention the job vacancy, mainly because she knew what Ellen was like. The tiniest whiff of something new and exciting for Maria to take part in would send her mother into overdrive and seeing as it wasn’t a definite yet, there was no point in bringing it up.

‘That sounds perfect. I’m so pleased you’re finding your way about, and you’ve the whole summer to look forward to, too. I have to admit, I’m slightly jealous. And how are you feeling?’ Ellen asked tentatively. ‘You know, about Mike? Has he tried to get in touch with you?’

It was inevitable that Mike would crop up at some point so Maria decided to roll with it. ‘Of course he hasn’t. Why would he? The divorce is done and dusted now, isn’t it? There’s no need for us to be in contact. In fact, speaking to him is the very last thing I want to do. I’d rather leave him to it. It’s much better that way. I don’t want to stay stuck in the past. I want to move on. It seems like a long way away right now, but I really do think being here will help. You know, away from it all.’ She took a breath. ‘You haven’t seen him, have you?’ she ventured curiously. She couldn’t be sure that if Ellen had seen Mike, she would have been able to control herself and not give him a piece of her mind. Despite her poised and elegant manner, when it came to her children, Ellen could be ferocious. Maria supposed that was motherhood, not that she had any experience of that herself.

‘Well,’ Ellen began, ‘I did bump into his mother in the shop on the corner the other day but she ignored me, can you believe it? No apology, no “how’s Maria doing?” She walked right past me with her nose stuck in the air as if she had something to be proud about. I was half-tempted to give her what for, but I knew it was best if I didn’t. There’s no point in causing trouble. I know you want the whole thing to be forgotten about so I went on my way, sticking my nose in the air too. I don’t know how on earth she can act like that. It was her son that decided to…’

‘Let’s stop right there,’ Maria cut in, imagining the scene unfolding in the corner shop. In her mind, she could see Ellen and Mike’s mother brawling on the shop floor, milk and eggs flying everywhere. She had to hold back the laughter that was rising at the image of them both. ‘I’m sure she’s just embarrassed about the whole situation. She probably had no idea of what to say to you. Would you, if it had been the other way around? Anyway, it’s best that you carried on. As far as I’m concerned, it’s over now. So, the next time you see her, just smile and carry on. That’s the best thing to do. Let her think that her son is God’s gift to women. She can’t be feeling too proud really, deep inside, not after what he did.’

Maria had never managed to bond with Mike’s mother, Felicity. The woman had always been very cold towards her, and Maria had often come away from visits to their home with the impression that she wasn’t good enough for their precious son. Oh, Felicity had been courteous enough, offering tea and cake, and smiling, if a little too brightly, but there had always been a strange undercurrent in the atmosphere, twisting and curling in the air like poison. Mike had always laughed it off whenever she’d raised the issue and told Maria that she was being ridiculous, and that his parents utterly adored her. She didn’t believe their feelings towards her went that far, but she’d always hoped that they’d at least liked her. She had a feeling now, looking back, that she’d been right in her instincts. Oh well, she wouldn’t be seeing Felicity again, so that was another bonus.

‘Yes, well, whatever happens, at least I won’t have to sit through another agonising hour of tea and bloody cake with the woman,’ Ellen declared with triumph.

Maria snorted. She loved that her mother was on the same wavelength. She could remember one particular tea and cake session where she’d asked for two sugars rather than one, and Felicity had looked horrified. A comment had followed, a comment which Maria vaguely remembered as having something to do with her weight. She’d sipped her tea quietly and never mentioned the extra sugar again, despite how awful it had tasted. Trying to begin a conversation with Felicity had been like trying to do the same with a brick wall. She’d always been quite rude, Maria had found. ‘They were always a bit gruelling, weren’t they?’

‘Yes, they were, and between me and you, her Victoria sponge was awfully dry. Not pleasant at all. I think you’ve made the right decision, Maria. About the divorce, I mean.’ Ellen sounded sincere. ‘It feels like a cruel twist of fate that you’ve been put through exactly the same as what I went through with your father, but I would never have been able to trust him again either. Once a fool, always a fool – in my opinion.’

‘Thanks, Mum. I believe it was the best thing to do too.’ Maria took a sip of coffee before glancing at her watch and realising the time. It wasn’t exactly late but she wanted to head out early so that the café wasn’t buzzing with customers, leaving her without a table. ‘Oh, bugger. Listen Mum, I’m going to get dressed and head into town now. You don’t mind if I go, do you?’

‘No, of course not. Go on, off you go. Fill your boots!’ Ellen ordered brightly. ‘Enjoy your time away and don’t worry about a single thing. Just focus on you, okay?’

‘I will, I promise. Chat to you soon, Mum. Take care. Bye!’

Maria ended the call and looked down at the handset with the fondest of smiles for just a few moments. She loved her mother dearly, she really did. Throughout the entirety of her life, Ellen had championed Maria in every single decision she’d made, which was a huge contrast to their father who couldn’t have given a damn about any of them. After the divorce, their father had buggered off abroad to Spain to run a greasy eatery alongside his new, much-younger fiancée. They very rarely heard from him. He hadn’t been back to England since he’d left. He still sent Maria and Rob a birthday and Christmas card each year, although it was never anything special. He usually just signed it off with his name and hers, and that was that.

Maria admired how her mother had handled the whole situation. Rather than shrinking in on herself and wallowing in self-pity, Ellen had dusted herself off and thrown herself into life once more. There had been bouts of tears, of course. Maria could remember one night when she’d heard her mother crying in the bedroom. She’d slipped inside and they’d shared a tight hug on the bed. Ellen wasn’t completely made of stone, but it hadn’t taken long for her to realise that it wasn’t the end of the world. Maria felt similar to her mother now more than ever, and if Ellen could get through it, then so could she. Swallowing down the last of her coffee, Maria hurried back upstairs, hopped into the shower, got dressed, and left the house less than thirty minutes later.

Summer had only just arrived, so Maria was surprised at how warm it felt already with it being so early in the day. When she’d followed Rob into town the day before, she hadn’t taken the time to admire her surroundings, she’d been completely lost in her private thoughts. But today, she did take the time to notice the scenery and she couldn’t understand how she’d missed it previously.

She walked up the road which led her out of Daffodil Lane and turned right along the footpath, alongside which ran the road that led towards the shops and places to eat. As she walked, Maria inhaled deeply and caught the faint scent of honeysuckle in the air. On the opposite side of the road, a row of impressive houses sat proudly, tall gates secluding them from the rest of the area. She peered at them, with their double-breasted chimneys and stained-glass windows and wondered about the people who lived there. Families? Couples? Were the men within of the same kind as Mike? Playing away while their wives sat at home, loyally waiting for them to get back? How would she ever trust another man again? Did she even want to?

She forced her focus away from the houses, realising she’d gone off down a path of thought she hadn’t anticipated and didn’t want to continue down. She supposed the idea of another man coming into her life after Mike didn’t seem feasible. They’d been together for such a long time, since secondary school, and the thought of someone else taking Mike’s place in her life was terrifying. But could she really and truly cut herself off from the idea of another relationship in the future? Was she destined to now spend the rest of her life alone? She’d always been such a hopeless romantic and an avid believer in her and Mike lasting forever. She wasn’t quite sure what to believe now. Did true love even exist? These thoughts, amongst others, fluttered about in Maria’s mind as she began to approach town, keeping her occupied as the distance between herself and Harriet’s Place lessened.

When she arrived, Maria again began to notice things she hadn’t seen the day before. It really was a pretty little place. She passed by a bakery with its door propped open, allowing the heavenly scent of freshly-baked bread to seep out into the air. There was a florist too, with a brilliantly bright selection of blooms on offer. Colourful foil windmills had been propped amid the flowers, and the sight of them twirling in the breeze made her smile and reminded her of how much she’d loved playing with those as a little girl. Continuing on her way, she walked by a gift shop, the exterior painted playdough-blue, with a wonderfully charming display of photo frames, cards and teddies in the window. She couldn’t believe she’d missed it all the day before. It was colourful and eye-catching. And then, just a couple more steps away, sat Harriet’s Place, and just the sight of it lifted her heart. She knew that when she stepped inside, she’d be greeted like an old friend.

‘Oh, hello love!’ Harriet smiled when the door closed behind Maria. ‘Back again? Lovely to see you.’

‘Well, after the food you served yesterday I couldn’t keep away’ Maria laughed lightly as she peered around for a table to sit down at. It wasn’t yet busy, thankfully, so she had quite a few choices. She walked past the counter and couldn’t stop her greedy eyes from creeping towards the slices of chocolate fudge cake, moist and soft. ‘Do you make all of this yourself?’ Pulling out a chair, Maria took a seat and shrugged off her jacket. She hung it across the back of the chair and picked up a menu. She already knew what she would order, but wanted to have a proper perusal just because she had the time to do so.

‘I certainly do,’ Harriet replied. ‘All freshly baked by yours truly.’

‘Wow, that’s impressive. I have to say, they look delicious.’

‘Thanks, love. I’m proud of my creations. My mother was a passionate baker and I think it must be genetic. I’ve been honing the skill ever since I was little.’ Harriet winked. ‘So, what’ll it be this morning?’

‘I think I’ll go for the cooked breakfast again please,’ Maria said. ‘What you served yesterday was heavenly, I had to come back for more.’

Harriet chuckled heartily. ‘My, you keep going with those compliments and my head will pop. One cooked breakfast coming right up,’ she said, scribbling it down onto a small notepad. ‘Let me take this through to the kitchen and I’ll be right back to sort a drink out for you.’ Harriet slipped into what Maria presumed was the kitchen and reappeared just a few seconds later. ‘Coffee? Tea?’

‘White coffee please, two sugars.’ Maria looked around. ‘It’s quiet today.’

‘It is, but don’t be fooled by it. Just you wait until lunchtime. This place will fill up like a hot air balloon. Enjoy the peace while it lasts, that’s all I can say.’ Harriet delivered Maria’s drink to the table with a smile and sat down in the opposite chair. ‘I hope you don’t mind if I join you for a few minutes? I’ve been working my socks off since five o’clock this morning, and you seem like a nice enough person.’ She yawned as she wiggled around to get comfy.

Maria sipped her coffee delicately, aware of the steam curling up from the surface. ‘Of course not. Sounds like you could do with a break. Do you have far to travel to work in the morning?’

‘Oh, no!’ Harriet laughed. ‘I live right upstairs, in the flat above the café.’

Surprised, Maria placed her cup down and looked up at the ceiling. ‘Really? Gosh, it must be tiny. Have you always lived up there?’

‘No, not always. My late husband and I moved into this place about thirty years ago. We had a vision in our minds of opening up our own café and, with hard work and determination, that’s exactly what we did. It didn’t look like this at first, I can tell you. It was a complete mess. I’m not sure what the place had been previously but it had stunk to high-heaven of cigarettes and booze. We practically had to fumigate the place. It took a while to really take shape but it was worth it once we’d finished. I’ve never lived anywhere since. I don’t think I could leave because it’s where we spent so much time together, side by side. And as for the flat? It is very small but the perfect size for me. I have everything I need up there, and it’s been home for so long now. It’s quite comfy when you see it, everything has its own place and I do enjoy watching my soaps up there of an evening. Peter used to love watching them too, surprisingly. He seemed to enjoy anything that I enjoyed. We were like two peas in a pod.’

Maria smiled softly. ‘I’m sorry about your husband. Was he very young?’

‘He was rather young, yes. But then again, any age would have been too young in my eyes. He’d always had problems with his heart, and this one turned out to be a bigger problem than all of the others. Still, he hasn’t left me, not really. He’ll always be with me in here.’ Harriet placed her hand upon her chest and closed her eyes momentarily. ‘Plus, I have this place which we both built up from the ground, so I’ll never really forget him. I suppose what I could have done once I found myself alone was go and see the world but, for me, it didn’t hold much appeal. This place is my home and always will be. I think I’ll remain here forever, or at least until I join Peter again.’ She smiled, and Maria realised she really liked the woman sat opposite her. There was a softness about Harriet that rubbed off and seemed to soothe even Maria herself. She enjoyed being in her company very much, and she’d only sat down at the table a short while ago.

‘That’s lovely.’ Maria took another sip of her coffee. ‘And no one can blame you for staying anyway. The area is gorgeous. You could travel the world but afterwards, I suppose there’s no place like home, is there?’

‘You’re right there. So, what’s your story?’ asked Harriet. Her eyes sparkled and she sat up a little straighter in her chair.

‘My story?’ laughed Maria, wondering what Harriet meant. Did she have a story? Perhaps, but she didn’t think it was an interesting one, not the sort she’d like to share with Harriet anyway. She’d probably bore the poor woman to death.

‘Yes. You know,’ Harriet continued, ‘what you’re about, where you come from. Why you’re here, too. I always remember faces, so I know I definitely haven’t seen yours before. It’s Maria, isn’t it? I haven’t gone and got your name wrong?’

‘It is,’ Maria nodded.

‘Don’t worry,’ tittered Harriet. ‘I’m not stalking you. I overheard your friend yesterday. He’s a handsome chap. Brother, is he?’

Maria laughed. ‘My! You really don’t miss a trick, do you? That was my brother, Robert.’

‘I thought as much. You look so alike. So come on then, what’s your story? You mentioned that you’re only here temporarily yesterday, when your brother mentioned the job to you?’

‘I’m here for a bit of a holiday, I suppose. Life’s been a bit… surprising recently, so a bit of time-out was very much needed. One of my mother’s friends has a cottage which she and her husband are planning to rent out next year, a bit of a holiday home if you will, over on Daffodil Lane?’ She saw Harriet’s eyebrows lift, she was obviously impressed. ‘She offered it to me, as a place to sort myself out and relax for the summer. I’m going to be doing a bit of painting and decorating while I’m there too. I suppose I’m here to get away from the stress of… recent events. So, here I am.’ She grinned. ‘Thankfully, I think it’s beginning to work.’

‘So what surprises has life thrown your way? I’m intrigued.’ Harriet leant forward on the table.

‘A divorce.’ Maria drank more coffee, feeling that there was no point in lying about it. ‘A cheating husband, which was very surprising. I certainly didn’t see it coming, anyway.’ She felt her muscles relax. It was a relief to be able to get it out, and Harriet didn’t seem like the type to judge, so it wasn’t hard to confess the truth to her.

‘Oh dear,’ Harriet murmured. She had the grace to look away, but then turned straight back. ‘I’m so very sorry to hear that. It sounds like you’ve been through a tough time of it lately. Well, you’re here now, that’s the main thing, and if I know one thing, it’s that Loland Green will fix you!’

Maria smiled. ‘How so?’ She was genuinely intrigued by Harriet’s comment.

‘Well, it’s a beautiful place, isn’t it? Those cottages on Daffodil Lane are like something out of a magazine. They’re so dreamy, and I imagine the place you’re staying in will work its magic on you sooner or later, if it hasn’t already.’

‘I have to admit, Loland Green is utterly gorgeous. I was sat in the conservatory yesterday admiring the view. Fields upon fields upon fields. Not a single office block or row of houses in sight. It’s a refreshing change, I must say, especially from where I live. Everything is so straight-edged and plain. It’s different here. More open and it makes me feel quite free.’

Harriet nodded in agreement. ‘That’s it. You’re already noticing how wonderful it is, and you’re right. Why do you think I’ve never left? On a Sunday, when this place is closed, I take myself off for a walk. Sometimes I’ll even pack some sandwiches and eat them by the lake, watching the swans and listening to the birds. You’ll have to join me one day. You’ll love it.’

‘That sounds nice. Thanks for the offer. I’d love to.’

‘Excellent. That’s settled then. I think by the time summer reaches its end, you’ll be feeling better than ever. You mark my words.’ She winked playfully.

‘I hope you’re right.’ It was then that Maria remembered the vow she’d made to herself the day before – to be happy once more by the end of summer. It seemed like a good omen that Harriet was echoing that promise, and Maria felt renewed optimism for her time here in Loland Green.

‘Anyway, I must stop chatting. I’m trying to get ahead of myself for the lunchtime rush, what with no waitress to help out. Have you thought any more about it? The vacancy, I mean? No pressure of course, but I think you’d fit in quite nicely here.’

Maria squirmed. ‘Not really. I just don’t think I’d be of much use.’ It was a stupid excuse but the only one she could come up with right then. The more time she’d spent chatting to Harriet that morning, the more she’d felt herself warming towards her. Even the story of how the café had come to be had made her feel more connected to it. It had a whole history, and Harriet and her husband’s life had taken place here. It was more than just a business to make money, she realised. It was full of memories for the owner, and Maria wasn’t surprised she’d never left. She didn’t think that she’d ever want to, if she was in Harriet’s shoes. It was obvious how much the café meant to its owner and, after that morning, Maria felt like she’d known Harriet for years.

‘Nonsense. You’d be fantastic as my waitress. As long as you’re friendly and quick on your feet, you’re perfect for the role. It’s only part-time hours so you wouldn’t be here all of the time, which could work quite well alongside your painting? Still, I don’t want to force you into it. It certainly sounds like you need the break, so if you’d prefer to take it nice and easy while you’re here, I’ll completely understand. There are better ways to spend a summer than waiting on people, but it’s there to think about anyway.’

A customer entered the café then, and Harriet’s attention shifted from Maria to the harried newcomer. ‘Good morning, Millie!’ she called brightly.

‘Hi! Hi! Oh, bugger.’ Millie, in her haste, had walked straight into a chair and was now flapping her hands about her face to calm herself down. Hastily, Millie pushed the skew-whiff chair back beneath the table she’d kicked it out from and closed her eyes momentarily to calm herself. ‘I’m late. For everything,’ she declared dramatically, like a movie star, and she certainly looked like one too. ‘Susie was an absolute nightmare this morning, refusing to get dressed, refusing to eat her breakfast. I had to carry her into nursery, because she decided to lie down on the ground and wouldn’t get back up. The people walking by had to step over her. It was a little bit embarrassing.’ She finally took a breath and it was then that she realised she and Harriet were not alone. ‘Oh, hello! I’m Millie. Sorry, didn’t mean to bore you with the trials and tribulations of my life.’ She rolled her eyes and laughed lightly.

‘Come on over, Millie. This is Maria, she’s new to Loland Green.’

‘Hello,’ Maria smiled and gave a little wave of her hand. ‘It’s nice to meet you.’

‘You too,’ Millie grinned back, walking towards the table. ‘Sorry about that, I didn’t realise anyone else was in here. I thought it was only Harriet and she’s more than used to my morning babbling.’

‘No need to apologise. It certainly added a bit of excitement to my morning.’

Laughing, Millie took a bow. ‘Here every day!’

‘Vanilla latte, two sugars, extra milk,’ called Harriet from over by the coffee machine. She was holding a takeout cup over the counter and wobbling it a bit at Millie, who hurried over and took it gratefully. After paying, she took a quick sip and grinned again at Maria.

‘I don’t think I’ve ever been on time for anything in my life. Not once. Hey, if you’re ever after a haircut, pop by the salon. I’ll give you mates’ rates.’ She winked and, with a final wave at Harriet, left the café. Maria watched her hurry up the street, shiny blonde hair fluttering behind her.

‘Well, she seems nice,’ Maria said to Harriet.

‘Who? Millie? Oh, she’s a lovely young woman. Although I think her daughter is giving her a rough time at the moment. You should definitely visit her in the salon. She’s fabulous with a pair of scissors.’

Maria ran her fingers through her hair self-consciously. If she was going to be honest, she hadn’t made much effort with her appearance since, well, since everything had happened. Had Harriet noticed? Did she really look that terrible? Was that why she’d brought up the topic? Or was it merely a throwaway comment?

‘Oh, no! I didn’t mean like that,’ Harriet said quickly, eyes wide, as she noticed Maria’s flushed face. ‘You have lovely hair. Really nice. I just meant that you should take up the offer if you ever fancy it.’

Maria burst out laughing, once again enjoying the sound and feel of it, how it vibrated and rumbled up her throat before bursting out of her mouth and filling the space around her. She really didn’t do it enough. Hopefully that would change now that she was here. ‘It’s fine, honestly. I suppose you’re right, really. I could do with a trim. It’s been a while. Yes, I think I will visit the salon.’ Maria nodded firmly.

A few moments of silence passed as Harriet continued busying herself behind the counter. Maria wasn’t entirely sure of whether she felt comfortable with what she was about to say but she went ahead and said it anyway. After all, what else was she going to do while she was here, other than paint? No, this was what she needed. And after all, now more than ever was the time to start taking chances. If it didn’t work out, then fine. But what if it did? ‘Harriet,’ she began slowly, ‘I think I’d like to take that waitressing position. I’m here for the summer, you need help, so it’s perfect really.’ Her heart was thumping madly in her chest. It was exciting but nerve-wracking all at the same time, but as she said the words, she realised she didn’t regret her decision at all. It was something new, something to look forward to, and alongside Harriet, she knew she’d feel right at home. It was, now that she’d done it, the perfect opportunity.

‘Are you sure?’ Harriet frowned and stopped what she was doing. ‘I mean, you didn’t seem too keen on the idea…’

‘Yes, I’m sure. I’d love to see if I’m any good. Plus, it will keep me busy while I’m here. As lovely as the cottage is, it’ll be great to have something else to do besides painting walls. I can’t paint for the entire summer, can I? It might become a bit dull. I need to throw myself into something new. Besides, you seem lovely, and I do enjoy being here, even after only visiting twice. It’s grown on me quite dramatically in such a short amount of time. It’s odd, actually.’

‘Maria, you are a life-saver. Thank you!’

Chapter Three

Following another delightful morning at Harriet’s Place the next day, in which Maria and Harriet went through the details of the vacancy and sorted out her shift pattern, she decided to take Harriet’s advice and pop into the salon to visit Millie.

The evening before, she’d taken a good, long, hard look at herself in the mirror and decided that she wasn’t happy with what she saw. Was it any wonder Mike had looked elsewhere? No, that was a stupid thought to have. She couldn’t blame herself. Whether she’d looked rubbish or not, he still shouldn’t have done it. Appearance wasn’t everything, and there was no way on earth that she’d start to believe that. It wasn’t her fault he couldn’t keep it in his trousers. But besides all of that, she really did need a tidy up if she were to begin as the café’s new waitress. She wanted to make a good impression and a haircut was just the ticket.

Maria was eager to learn more about Millie, and excited about being in her bubbly company once more. She hoped they could squeeze her in, because the more time she’d spent faffing with her hair, the more she’d realised how much it was actually in need of a cut. How had she allowed it to get this bad? Well, considering everything that had gone on, her hair had shifted down her list of priorities so she supposed that explained it.

Millie grinned when Maria entered the salon that afternoon. ‘Hurray, you came! And what do you know, we can fit you in! Here, take a seat.’ She indicated to the chair an elderly woman had just got up from. It was clear that she enjoyed her job, and Maria hoped she was as good at it as Harriet had said she was. Maria did as she was told, swept away by the wave of enthusiasm which seemed to emanate from Millie constantly, and sat herself down in the chair.

While she waited for Millie to come over, she studied the salon with interest. It was impeccable in terms of style and cleanliness, with glossy hair products lining the shelves, and black and white counters placed strategically throughout, dotted with brushes and sprays and all manner of hairdressing items that would come in handy during an appointment.

‘So, what are you after today, Maria?’ Millie stood behind her and smiled, hands on her shoulders. She began to run her fingers through Maria’s hair, studying the ends and length.

‘Oh, I don’t know. Nothing too drastic, I don’t think. Perhaps just a trim?’

Millie scrutinised Maria’s reflection in the mirror for a moment, her eyes narrowing as she took in Maria’s face. ‘Do you know what would really suit you? A full fringe and perhaps a new colour, too. Just to spruce you up a bit.’

Maria laughed. ‘No way! This has been my style and colour for as long as I can remember.’

‘All the more reason to try something new then,’ shrugged Millie. ‘Go on. Honestly, you’d look fantastic with a few layers to give it some volume.’ She puffed up Maria’s hair and tilted her head as she studied it some more. ‘You have amazing cheekbones as well, the fringe would shape your face just right.’ With a knowledgeable nod, she waited for Maria to decide.

Maria licked her lips nervously. Was it time for a change? Maybe something different was exactly what she needed to begin the brand-new, Mike-less version of herself? She’d always played it safe previously, worried in case it turned out that Mike didn’t like whatever she decided to try. But it wasn’t Mike’s hair, was it? It was hers. She was sick to her back teeth of trying to please everyone else except the one person who mattered most. Herself. No. Bugger it. Her life had changed in the blink of an eye, it was only right that her hair was part of the process too, and she felt like she was in capable hands with Millie. Well, she sounded like she knew what she was talking about, and once again, it was all about taking that chance.

‘Do you know what? I think you’re right,’ Maria decided. ‘I’m going to go for something new. It’s been so long since I’ve done anything different. Let’s go for a fringe and a new colour. It’ll be nice to see something different when I look in the mirror. I’ve been staring at the same old mop for far too long now.’

Millie grinned with excitement and gave a little clap. ‘Excellent choice.’

Maria sat back and relaxed as Millie brushed out her hair. It was just past her shoulders now, although not in the best condition she had to admit, probably from all of those times she’d shoved it up into an unwashed, greasy ponytail and left it there, not caring about how she looked. No doubt the bad treatment had caught up and had its effects. Fingers crossed that once Millie was finished, it would look and feel completely different.

Just over an hour and a half later, Maria stepped out of the salon alongside Millie, who’d finished her shift, and grinned when her new friend turned to look at her for the third time since she’d left the chair.

‘I can’t believe how brilliant it looks. You look like a brand new woman.’

‘Mission accomplished then,’ Maria laughed, running a hand through her softer, shinier locks. ‘Millie, I love it. Thank you so much.’ It felt silky smooth and she loved the fringe and caramel colour. It was only a small step towards getting her confidence back, but who knew how much a simple haircut could boost a woman up? She felt so wonderful, she could have flung her arms around Millie right there and then.

‘Right,’ Millie announced. ‘Now that you’re feeling fabulous and I’ve finished work, fancy a quick drink in the pub? It’s only around the corner. Mum’s got Susie and she won’t mind keeping her for a little while longer. I’ll send her a quick text to let her know I’ll be a bit later.’

‘Go on, then,’ nodded Maria, wanting to make the most of this new friendship she’d found. She felt carefree and footloose. She had a feeling that Millie’s sunny company was something to do with it. It was near impossible to feel glum when around her, which was exactly the sort of person Maria wanted to spend time with. Millie’s chatter and fascination in everything from celebrities to food did a brilliant job of keeping the realities of Maria’s life at bay. ‘Let’s go,’ she grinned.

*

The Rose and Horn was situated perfectly beside a magnificent lake, the same lake – Maria guessed – as the one Harriet had referred to the day before. When they arrived, Millie went inside and ordered their drinks at the bar before returning to the table out front. It felt nice to be sat in the late-afternoon sunshine. Maria swallowed a mouthful of the cool beer and relaxed, completely at ease in her surroundings. It was calm and beautiful and something she realised she hadn’t done for a long time.

‘This is lovely, isn’t it? I had no idea the pub was even here,’ she commented with another glance around the area. A few bees buzzed about the overflowing flower pots outside the pub, and the lake, when she looked towards it, was surrounded by ancient oak trees.

‘Yeah,’ Millie nodded. ‘It’s hidden away but I love it here too. I had my twenty-ninth birthday party here. It was a great night. Maxine and Paul, the people who own the pub, are so friendly and welcoming. I think they add to the charm of it, especially for newcomers. Anyway, I’m curious. What brings you to Loland Green, Maria?’

‘I’m on holiday,’ Maria began. ‘One of my mum’s friends owns a holiday cottage over on Daffodil Lane. She’s letting me stay there for the summer which is incredibly kind of her. It needs a lick of paint so that’s my job while I’m here too. I wasn’t too keen on the idea at first but now that I’m here, I can see why she’s planning on renting it out. It’s the perfect place to spend the summer in.’

‘And you’re on your own?’ Millie asked.

Maria nodded and swirled one of the beer mats around with her fingertip. ‘I am. I may as well be honest. I’ve just come out the other side of a divorce so I needed to get away for a while. You know, take some time out.’

‘Wow.’ Millie’s eyes widened. She clearly hadn’t expected that.

‘Yes, that’s how I feel about it all too. It came as quite a shock. Knocked me for six.’ Maria laughed lightly.

‘God, I’m sorry to hear that.’ Millie sighed sadly, her shoulders dropping. ‘What happened, if you don’t mind me asking?’

In any other instance, Maria would have hesitated in telling someone such details about her life – but with Millie, as well as Harriet, she felt like she didn’t have to hold back. They were both open, friendly, and didn’t seem the type to gossip, so there was nothing stopping Maria from telling Millie about what had happened. She decided to go for it. These women had made her feel completely welcome and she didn’t want to hide from them. Plus, without having been conscious of it, she’d somehow decided that despite her original hesitancy in making friends, it actually wasn’t a bad idea after all.

‘He couldn’t keep his hands to himself,’ she said simply. She glugged more beer. The reality of it still left a bitter taste in her mouth and the beverage did a fantastic job of washing it down.

‘Bloody hell, Maria. That’s terrible. What a bastard.’

‘I know,’ she nodded. ‘Still, the more I think about it, perhaps it’s for the best that it all happened. It’s an odd thing to say, I know, but Mike didn’t confess. I found out myself. I reckon that if I hadn’t found out, he wouldn’t have told me about it. He would have carried on behind my back while I was completely oblivious to it all, and the thought of that is terrible. Me, going about my daily business, with no idea whatsoever of what he was up to.’

‘Men!’ Millie seethed, shaking her head at the injustice of it.

Maria shrugged. ‘Anyway, that’s why I’m here. To get over my failed marriage. What about you? Have you always lived here?’

Millie peeled off her cardigan and rolled back her shoulders in the sunshine. A few newcomers were heading towards the pub, the place was beginning to liven up for the evening. Maria imagined that it would be swarming when summer really took hold. It had the most perfect views and a lovely atmosphere that made her want to kick off her shoes and partake in a little sunbathing. ‘This is where I was born and bred,’ said Millie. ‘My daughter, Susie? Her dad took off as soon as we found out I was pregnant. Another bastard. I was only young too, so I was terrified about what lay ahead. Still, we’ve managed pretty well with it being just the two of us, and Mum helps out a lot with childcare while I work my shifts at the salon. Susie’s an angel, she and my mum are like birds of a feather, they spend so much time together.’

‘So no boyfriend on the scene now?’ Maria found it hard to believe that someone as fantastic and gorgeous as Millie was single. Still, she couldn’t really blame her. Not that she’d actually say anything to Millie, she was still young with a promising future ahead of her, but Maria’s faith in good men had waned dramatically. It wasn’t a surprise really, considering what she’d been through. She hated that she felt so bitter about it. She knew it was completely unfair to tar every man with the same brush just because of her own experiences. After all, just because one had broken her heart, didn’t mean they all would. Who knew? Perhaps it was possible, in the future, that she’d think about taking a chance on love again. But then again, Ellen hadn’t remarried, and she seemed content with the single life. All these years later, she was a happy and carefree woman, and to look at her, you wouldn’t have thought the divorce had ever happened. It gave Maria hope, knowing that her mother had managed to get through and come out the other side wearing a smile and determined to carry on.

‘No,’ Millie replied with a little shrug. ‘I barely have time for myself, never mind a man. I mean, if I came across someone really special and he proved to me that he’d stick around, as well as accept Susie, then maybe there’d be a chance for romance, but it hasn’t happened yet. I’m not holding out much hope either. After what you’ve told me, it sort of makes me wonder if it’s worth it.’

‘Of course it’s worth it.’ Maria realised how much like her mother she had sounded then. ‘You’re still young and there’s plenty of time for that special someone to come into your life. Don’t worry too much. I believe any man would be lucky to have you. Don’t listen to me and feel like there’s no hope, because there is, I promise. I just happen to have had a rough time of it, that’s all. You and I are in completely different boats too. There’s nothing wrong with believing in the fairy-tale. I did myself for a long, long time. It still happens for plenty of other women around the world. I just stumbled across a bad egg, that’s all.’

They continued chatting and, thankfully, moved on from the topic of men. Instead they spoke about Millie’s experiences of pregnancy, her daughter Susie, their respective parents, and anything else that happened to crop up along the way.

‘Another drink?’ Millie asked, raising her empty glass towards Maria.

‘Yeah, go on then. Why not? One more won’t hurt.’ And she was having a wonderful time sat there with Millie as the sun continued to grace everything within its reach.

‘Great. Back in a mo.’

Millie disappeared inside the pub, leaving Maria alone. It was then she noticed how many tables had been taken up around them. An elderly couple sat together at one, enjoying dinner accompanied with a glass of wine each. To her right, she could hear low laughter from a group of men, their table was littered with beer bottles and a couple of mobile phones.

One of the men in particular caught her eye and she watched him a little more closely. Perhaps it was the unruly, dark hair, or how out of place he looked compared to the others. While they were dressed in smart jeans and shirts, his jeans had rips in the knees and his t-shirt looked muddied as if he’d been rolling around in a field all afternoon. As if aware of Maria’s gaze, he glanced in her direction. He looked mean, scary almost, with frown lines between his brows that were firm and unyielding.

Maria looked away immediately. She hoped he didn’t think she’d been checking him out. How mortifying that would be. Thankfully, Millie returned with two fresh pints and placed them down onto the wooden table, giving her something to distract herself with. After taking a quick sip, Maria reached for her bag to get her purse but Millie shook her head.

‘No way, these are on me, as a thank you for the company this evening. Cheers!’

‘Cheers,’ Maria grinned, clinking her pint glass with Millie’s. She took a long sip, her senses already blurring from the beer and then, secretly, she glanced in the man’s direction again with the cold glass still raised to her lips. It was an effective object to hide behind. He was chatting to the blond-haired man sat beside him. His jaw was sharp and angular, she noticed, as he ran a hand along the side of it. He could cut ice with a jaw like that, although she doubted the need to do so would ever arise.

‘Who are you looking at?’ Mille leant to the side to see if she could locate Maria’s point of interest. ‘Oh, I see,’ she said slowly, her voice light with amusement.

‘No one!’ Maria shook her head quickly. ‘I’m just taking a look about the place. That’s all. It’s a completely new area to me. It’s only normal that I’m interested to see what’s what.’

Millie smirked. ‘It was Brad you were eyeing up, wasn’t it?’ She wore an all-knowing expression as she spoke.

‘Of course it wasn’t! I don’t even know who Brad is.’ Maria did her best to appear confused. So, his name was Brad, was it? She mentally filed away the information, although for what use she wasn’t entirely sure.

‘Yes, you do,’ giggled Millie. ‘Broad shoulders, messy hair, tattoo peeking out from under his t-shirt. You know exactly who Brad is. He’s the one who looks like he’s been rolling around in the mud and had a blast doing it. The one most women wouldn’t mind rolling around in the mud with.’ Millie said all of this without a hint of surprise evident. Her blue eyes glittered naughtily at her last comment and she smiled. ‘It’s true. A lot of the women around here can be found swooning over him. He doesn’t have any of it though, doesn’t even acknowledge it. I love a man like that, don’t you? Hard to reach. The shell around him impossible to crack.’

‘You know him then?’ Maria tried not to appear too interested in Millie’s answer. She had to admit though, he did look a little untidy but not in an unpleasant way. In quite an appealing way, actually. She wanted to look in his direction again but also didn’t want to risk being caught. The look he’d thrown in her direction minutes ago hadn’t been an inviting one.

‘Vaguely,’ Millie shrugged in reply. ‘He works at Meadow Farm. It’s right up the lane beside the café. He’s not around much, I guess he likes to keep to himself. It looks like he’s had a change of heart this evening though. You don’t see him out and about that often. I wouldn’t blame you if you were admiring him, by the way. Don’t worry, I won’t judge. He’s quite yummy to look at. He’s definitely got that whole rough-and-rugged look going on, hasn’t he?’

Maria took the information in quickly, then rolled her eyes. ‘I was not admiring him. I was merely curious as to who was sat at the table, that’s all. After what I’ve been through, I should be sworn off men for life. How old is he anyway? He looks about your age.’

‘No way. Couple of years older than me. Mid-thirties, I think. He’s got a nerve showing up here though.’ Millie glanced out across the lake and watched the ducks gliding across the surface of the water. It was a pretty scene, but Maria was still thinking about what Millie had just said. She’d always been a curious person, and this man was igniting that curiosity this evening, although she couldn’t put her finger on why. She’d never been the type of woman swayed purely by good looks. She was of the frame of mind that it was what was on the inside that counted. Still, a little admiration never hurt anyone, and coupled with her beer-fuelled mind, she couldn’t seem to help herself.

She hadn’t fancied many men in her lifetime, Maria realised. Sure, there’d been the odd celebrity crush, but they were just a silly fantasy that she’d sometimes entertain. She’d spent her life from the age of sixteen upwards ridiculously devoted to Mike. He could never have done any wrong in Maria’s eyes, and she thought that was another reason why she’d been so shocked by the truth. She’d been under the impression that she’d known her husband inside and out, believed that he’d never keep a secret from her, no matter what. That’s what marriage was about, wasn’t it? Loyalty, honesty and trust? It turned out that they hadn’t had any of those things, and she wondered whether this affair, the one that had broken their marriage apart, had been the first, or one of many? She’d never know now.

‘What do you mean?’ Maria glanced again in Brad’s direction but pulled her gaze away just as quickly. ‘Why would he have a nerve coming here?’ It seemed like an odd thing for Millie to say, and she was interested to know more about the mysterious man across the way.

Millie shrugged. ‘I’m not entirely sure of what happened but apparently, according to local gossip, which I don’t participate in by the way, he used to go out with Sophie, and Sophie’s parents are the people who own this pub. She used to live here with them. I can’t say one hundred percent that what everyone says is true, you know what it’s like in a small place like this. A game of Chinese whispers, and the story grows more outrageous with every mouth that adds to it. But there’s supposedly bad blood between Brad and her parents.’ She made quote marks with her fingers around the words ‘bad blood’. ‘Something happened and ever since, Brad isn’t exactly made to feel welcome.’

‘Does Sophie still live here?’ asked Maria, glancing about foolishly, as if Sophie herself would pop up from out of the bushes and yell ‘surprise!’

‘No, she moved away a good few years ago, I think, and apparently got married last summer. Still, I suppose they can’t stop him from coming to the pub for a pint, can they? Free will and all that. My guess is he broke her heart. Bit of a cliché but that’s all I can come up with on the matter. They were together for years, you know. Stupidly in love. You’d always see them walking by the lake together, feeding the ducks. It was like something out of a movie. Everyone was shocked when they broke up and Brad sort of disappeared from Loland Green for a while. No one knows where he went but when he finally returned, he kept away from everyone, which is why I’m surprised to see him here. And with friends, too! I didn’t even know he had any, he spends that much time on his own.’ She snorted into her glass and Maria realised that the beer was beginning to have its effects on Millie.

Maria wondered where Brad had gone during the period in which he’d vanished. Was it a bit like her situation, she wondered. Where she’d come to Daffodil Lane to sort herself out? ‘Interesting,’ she murmured. ‘It’s sad that they broke up though, if they were as happy as you said they were. Relationships aren’t the same these days, are they?’

‘Don’t say that,’ Millie groaned. ‘I’m still holding out hope for a knight in shining armour. I’ve always been chasing after that fairy-tale, happy-ever-after.’ She laughed at herself, slightly tipsy if her flushed cheeks and unsteady sway on the seat were anything to go by.

‘You’ll get your knight in shining armour, I’m sure of it.’ Maria nodded firmly. ‘You’re lovely. In fact,’ she lowered her voice to a whisper, ‘if I’m right, one of those lads at Brad’s table keeps sneaking glances at you. He’s been doing so since you went inside to get the last drinks.’

Millie frowned. ‘Really?’

‘Really,’ Maria insisted. ‘He’s wearing the light green top with beige shorts. Can you see him? He’s sat next to Brad. Quite handsome, actually.’

Millie peered in the table’s direction. She scanned the four men. ‘God, I don’t even know what I’d do if a man tried to flirt with me these days, it’s been that long. I’d probably run screaming into the hills.’

Once the drinks were finished, they grabbed their belongings and headed back towards town. The sky had darkened just a little bit but the air was still warm as they strolled, neither one of them rushing to end the evening. They hadn’t walked very far when they heard shouting from behind them. Millie turned and, having seen who it was, tugged on Maria’s arm in panic.

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