Finding Mother Read online

  ‘Thank you, my dear. I can’t wait to see you both in your glory later. And I like that new hairstyle, Hélène, it suits you.’

  Hélène smiled, patting her flicked-out hair, a more youthful style than normal. ‘Thanks. Nicole talked me into something different and I’m glad she did.’

  The women chatted over their coffee, an air of barely suppressed excitement flowing like an electric current between them. Hélène’s fingers tapped on the table as if she were pacing out a particularly fast tune. The heady perfume of roses hung in the air, mixing with the aroma of their fresh coffee. Nicole felt as if time was suspended, the hiatus before the real purpose of the day could begin. It didn’t last, the peace being shattered by the doorbell, announcing the arrival of the caterers.

  Hélène and Nicole went to direct operations and moments later the flowers also arrived. The level of excitement went up a notch as the bouquets were admired. Hélène’s flowers, tightly packed cream roses and yellow freesias encased in glossy green leaves, were hand tied with a blue satin ribbon to match her dress. Nicole’s slightly smaller bouquet of roses and leaves was tied with a green ribbon.

  ‘They’re gorgeous, Hélène! Your florist friend’s done a great job,’ Nicole said, breathing in the fragrance. She looked at her watch before adding, ‘It’s time to get changed. I’ll bring Grandmother inside and fix her corsage before I go.’

  Once she was dressed, Nicole went along to Hélène’s room to see if she needed a hand.

  As Hélène opened the door there were mutual cries of admiration.

  ‘You look stunning, Hélène! Adrian will be bowled over!’

  Hélène’s face glowed with pleasure.

  ‘Thanks, I hope so! And you make a gorgeous Matron of Honour!’

  Nicole helped with her mother’s headdress before they went downstairs to join Eve in her sitting room.

  As they walked in Eve looked up and, although she smiled, tears began to run down her face.

  ‘Are you all right, Mother?’ Hélène rushed over to her chair.

  ‘Yes, dear, I’m just overcome at the sight of you both. My beautiful girls! Let me have a closer look.’ Eve wiped her eyes as Nicole gave her a hug.

  After reassuring herself Eve was fine Hélène went to check on the caterers.

  Ben arrived shortly after to escort Eve to the church in a hired limousine. As he set eyes on Nicole, his face lit up and he let out an appreciative whistle. She dropped a mock curtsy and they shared a quick kiss before he wheeled Eve outside and lifted her into the car. Once the wheelchair was in the boot they left, waving at Nicole on the front step. Hélène stayed discreetly out of sight in the kitchen and Nicole joined her to collect her bouquet. The arrival of their own car was announced by the crunch of tyres on the gravel and mother and daughter, holding their flowers tightly, were greeted by the uniformed chauffeur bowing them into the car.

  The white Rolls purred down the drive and Hélène reached out for Nicole’s hand.

  ‘I’m not dreaming, am I? I am sitting in a Rolls Royce on the way to my wedding, aren’t I?’

  Nicole giggled.

  ‘It’s no dream, it’s for real. Now, just enjoy it. This is your day remember. It’ll be wonderful!’

  ***

  The church bells rang out as the Rolls approached, the joyful sound seeming to echo around them. With weddings being rare occasions at St Philippe’s, a few heads popped out of windows to watch the car pull up. Ben, hovering in the porch, signalled their arrival to the vicar. As Hélène and Nicole stood at the door, the organ burst into life with the resounding sound of Wagner’s Bridal March. Hélène had asked Nicole to walk by her side down the aisle, only moving away as they reached the altar.

  Hélène’s heart hammered as she stepped towards the man she loved, barely registering the congregation standing in welcome. The sun poured through the stained glass window behind the altar, splashing rainbows of colour across the white plastered walls. She smiled her joy as Adrian turned around. Glancing quickly at the pew behind him, she was relieved to see Karen, Luke in her arms, standing between Dave and Michael. As Hélène reached Adrian’s side their eyes locked and a feeling of calm spread through her whole being. At last, she was marrying the man she loved!

  ‘Dearly beloved…’

  Cheers rang out in the garden of La Folie as the guests toasted the bride and groom, glasses of champagne held high. The caterers had spread the tables and chairs on the terrace and lawn, leaving the guests to sit where they wished. Neither Hélène nor Adrian wanted speeches, conscious of the feelings of his children. Hélène had wanted a little “pomp” as she called it in the church, but now informality reigned. Michael had sneaked in an iPod and speakers, setting it up on the terrace so that soon music was wafting across the garden. Nicole cornered him, asking which songs he’d chosen.

  ‘60s music mainly, being the most age-appropriate,’ he grinned. ‘And I’ve chosen a great track for the first dance,’ he added, tapping his nose.

  ‘Can’t wait to hear it!’ Nicole looked across at Karen, sitting at a table with her husband and son. She wore a long face and Dave seemed to be trying to cheer her up.

  ‘What did you say to convince Karen to come?’

  Michael shuffled his feet.

  ‘I just asked her to think about how it would look to everyone if she didn’t. Guernsey’s a small island and people love to gossip. And Dad’s always been popular, everyone got on with him more than Mum. She…she didn’t have many friends, you know, and although I loved her, I can see why he fell for Hélène.’ He hesitated before continuing, ‘Karen’s not as angry about the affair itself as about the fact that you’re Dad’s daughter too. She’s jealous, Nicole. Jealous of you.’

  ‘Oh! I see. Well, let’s hope in time she’ll see there’s nothing to be jealous of, Michael. None of us can change the past and I for one am very happy with the way it’s turned out between them,’ she nodded towards the newlyweds.

  ‘Me too, Sis!’

  Nicole grinned at him before joining Eve, holding court as the “mother of the bride”.

  ‘Enjoying yourself, Grandmother?’

  ‘Yes dear, it’s such fun isn’t it? Everyone’s been so kind and someone, I’m not sure who, even brought me a lovely selection from the buffet. Have you eaten yet?’

  ‘No, I’ll go in a minute. I just wanted to make sure you were okay.’

  ‘Off you go, before there’s nothing left!’ Eve chuckled.

  On her way back from the dining room Nicole caught up with her parents, who’d been chatting to Peter and Molly Ogier. Mary seemed a little emotional as she kissed her.

  ‘Wasn’t it a lovely service? And I thought you both looked beautiful. We’ll chat later when everyone’s gone.’

  Joining Ben at a table near the bride and groom, Nicole was finally able to relax. It had been a busy and poignant few hours and, judging by the laughing faces of Hélène and Adrian, with a happy outcome. She sighed, would she have a happy ending? Glancing at Ben through lowered lashes, she caught him looking at her intently.

  He leant over, whispering, ‘Happy? I was very proud of you as you walked down the aisle, darling. I think you’re the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen.’

  Nicole’s heart beat faster.

  ‘Of course I’m happy. And thank you, kind sir!’ She said lightly.

  They carried on eating, only breaking off to chat to the other couple on the table. At a signal from the caterer, the wedding cake was brought out, prompting an outbreak of cheers and clapping. Hélène had chosen a simple iced sponge decorated with tiny iced roses encircling their entwined initials.

  Once the cake had been ceremoniously cut, Michael called out ‘First dance!’ as he fiddled with the iPod. Adrian pulled a laughing Hélène to her feet as the sound of The Ronettes singing “Be My Baby” rang out from the speakers. Nicole grinned at Michael. A good choice!

  After the bridal pair had completed a cir
cle on the lawn, other couples got to their feet. Ben grabbed Nicole’s hand and whirled her into a fast waltz. As she spun round she noticed that Dave had managed to persuade Karen to dance. Thank goodness! Karen even managed a smile. Nicole settled happily into Ben’s arms.

  By five o’clock the celebrations were drawing to a close. Hélène and Adrian went upstairs to change as the caterers started the clear-up. Some of the guests had already left while a stalwart few remained to cheer the bride and groom on their way. Nicole pushed Eve’s wheelchair into the hall for the send-off. As the taxi arrived, the remaining guests laughingly threw confetti over the newly-weds. Hélène turned her back to the group and threw her bouquet high in the air. Instinctively, Nicole rushed forward and caught it. As Hélène turned round she smiled and, giving her a hug, whispered, ‘You next!’

  chapter 38

  Eve was so exhausted by the wedding celebrations that she retired to her bed as soon as the happy couple and remaining guests departed. Once the carers had made her comfortable Ben popped in to see her.

  ‘How is she?’ Nicole asked as he returned to the terrace where they’d been enjoying a quiet drink.

  ‘Not too good, I’m afraid. I think she was operating on overdrive today and it’s caught up with her. She might be better after a couple of days rest, but I can’t guarantee it.’ He stroked her hair as she slumped into his arms.

  A shiver ran through Nicole as she imagined the worst.

  ‘Will…will she live till Hélène gets back?’

  ‘I hope so. You know I’ll do my best, but…’ He shrugged.

  All the happiness and laughter of the day suddenly dissipated, as if a strong wind had swirled around the house, blowing the joy over the cliff. It’s not fair! Grandmother must hold on for Hélène, she must! Ben continued to hold her tight as she willed Eve to live. At least for a few more days…

  Early on Sunday morning Nicole, holding her breath, tiptoed into Eve’s bedroom. As she gazed at her grandmother’s recumbent form she searched for signs of breathing. The slight, ragged rise and fall of Eve’s chest reassured her that all was well. For the moment. She was about to leave when Eve’s eyes opened.

  ‘Morning, Grandmother. How do you feel?’

  Eve’s voice came out in a whisper.

  ‘Very…tired, my dear. I…overdid it yesterday, but it… was worth it. What a… wonderful day!’

  Nicole helped her to drink some water and Eve sank back on the pillow.

  ‘Thank you. I’ll stay…bed today… rest.’

  ‘Would you like anything to eat or a cup of tea?’

  Eve shook her head, closing her eyes. Her face was grey in the muted light of the bedroom and Nicole’s heart clenched. She was reminded of when she visited her other grandmother for what proved to be the last time. Her face had borne the same ashen tinge.

  Ben took one look at Nicole’s face and hugged her.

  ‘She’s still alive but I can see it can’t be long. She’s refused anything to eat and wants to sleep.’

  ‘I’ll check her now.’

  Nicole, on autopilot, filled the kettle and put the bread in the toaster. As she set the table Ben returned.

  ‘I’ve given her an injection to stabilise her heart. She’s asleep now and I’ll look in later.’ He sat down and sipped his coffee.

  ‘Should I get in touch with Hélène?’ Nicole asked, feeling her shoulders tighten.

  He shook his head. ‘They’re back at lunchtime tomorrow and I think we’ve got a few days yet. It would be a shame to spoil their weekend unless it’s…urgent.’ Reaching out to grab her hand, he added, ‘Don’t worry, I’ll be keeping an eye on her.’

  Nicole, buttering her toast, could only hope he was right.

  Mary and Ian arrived later that morning to say goodbye and were shocked to hear about Eve. Nicole hadn’t told them how little time Eve had left, not wanting anyone to know before the wedding.

  The mood was subdued as they sat outside drinking coffee in the sunshine, making a painful contrast to the joyful atmosphere of the previous day.

  The conversation turned to the subject of a visit to Spain.

  ‘Much as I’d love us to come over soon, Mum, it might be a while. As I start my new job next month I’ll have to clear any holiday with my boss.’

  ‘Of course. How about joining us for Christmas? It’ll be a lot warmer than here!’

  ‘Love to, if we can get away.’

  After a few more minutes of desultory conversation, Ian announced it was time for them to leave for the airport. Nicole and Ben accompanied them to the front door and hugs and handshakes were exchanged.

  ‘Ring me when you get home!’ Nicole cried as her parents strapped themselves into the hire car.

  ‘Will do.’ Mary waved as Ian started the engine and drove off.

  Nicole peeped in on Eve on the way to the kitchen. She was relieved to see that her colour looked a little better and she was sound asleep. Relaxing her shoulders, she set off to prepare lunch.

  Ben disappeared to work the next morning, but not before he’d arranged for a nurse to come and sit with Eve. He told Nicole that it would be prudent to have someone with Eve at all times now and she said she’d sit with her until the nurse arrived. As she settled into the chair by her bedside her grandmother stirred and opened her eyes.

  ‘Hello, Grandmother. Can I get you anything?’

  ‘Water…please. My throat’s…so dry.’

  Nicole poured a glass of water from the jug on the bedside table and helped Eve to take a few sips.

  ‘Thank…you. Is…Hélène back?’ Eve croaked.

  ‘Not yet, another few hours. Is there something you need?’

  Eve beckoned Nicole to lean closer and spoke so quietly that she strained to hear.

  ‘Hélène has…right to know…the truth. My diaries…all there…father…in the attic…tower. You must…find them. Tell her. I…I can’t…not strong. Too late…years ago.’ Eve gripped Nicole’s hand. ‘Promise me…you’ll do it.’

  Nicole, not sure what she was promising, nodded, anxious to ease Eve’s distress.

  ‘Thank…you. You…good girl. Want to…sleep now.’ Eve closed her eyes, letting go of Nicole’s hand.

  Her mind whirled with questions. What was the “truth” Eve referred to? And what had it to do with Hélène? She’d already had her suspicions and it looked like she might have been right…If she was, then Hélène wouldn’t be the only one to be affected. Not liking the thought, she knew she simply had to find the diaries; as soon as the nurse arrived she would head for the attic. At least she knew where to look…

  The attic seemed even dustier than last time, the sun’s rays highlighting the dust motes disturbed by her arrival. Nearly overpowered by the heat she pushed open the windows, breathing in a welcome blast of fresh air. Nicole turned towards the higgledy-piggledy pile of boxes, cases and chests, letting out a groan. Where to start? Where would secret diaries be hidden from prying eyes? Well, not amongst family photos or childhood mementoes, she thought, as she shifted aside such stuff. No, it was likely to be connected with Eve’s time in England so she needed to look for an old case or chest from that period.

  It was an hour before Nicole found anything promising. An old, battered cardboard case so small that it had fitted into a tea chest, and further buried under a pile of old books. Dragging it out she read Eve’s maiden name written in faded white ink on the top “Eve Bisson”. Taking a deep breath she opened the lid and found, wrapped up in a moth-eaten man’s jersey, Eve’s wartime diaries.

  Nicole barely had time to put the diaries in her bedroom drawer when she heard the crunch of a car’s tyres on the gravel. Quickly wiping her dirty hands, she dashed downstairs to welcome Hélène and Adrian home.

  After an exchange of hugs and kisses, Hélène asked after Eve.

  Nicole, with a quick glance at Adrian, admitted she was gravely ill. Hélène, with a gasp, darted off to her mother’s room. N
icole filled Adrian in with the details before they followed Hélène down the hall.

  The nurse, a matronly woman with a kind face, came out to say that Eve had woken when Hélène arrived and perhaps they should leave them alone for a while. Nicole suggested a cup of tea was in order and Adrian followed her into the kitchen.

  ‘Did you have a good time in Jersey?’ Nicole asked, filling the kettle.

  ‘Yes, thanks. We explored a bit around the coast but spent most of our time at L’Horizon. It’s such a comfortable hotel that we were happy to chill out and do nothing.’ He slumped onto a chair. ‘It’s such a shame about Eve. Hélène did her best not to worry. But it was always there, in the background. What’s Ben said about…?’

  Nicole bit her lip.

  ‘A few days at the most. There’s nothing more anyone can do except keep her comfortable. We think that she kept going for the wedding and now her heart’s finally giving up,’ she sighed.

  They sat in silence for a few moments, cradling their mugs of tea. Nicole was wondering what she'd find in the diaries when the chance came to read them. She had a feeling it would only cause Hélène more pain.

  The door opened and her mother came in, collapsing onto the chair next to Adrian. He put his arms around her while Nicole poured a mug of tea and set it beside her.

  ‘She looks so ill! It’s hard to believe that only two days ago she seemed so much better!’ Hélène sipped her tea, tears moistening her eyes. Nicole explained about the need for someone to be with Eve at all times and that’s why Ben had organised nurses.

  Hélène nodded.

  ‘I’ll sit with her at night and grab some sleep when I can.’ She looked at Adrian, ‘Sorry to desert you so soon but I have to…’

  ‘Of course. I can take a shift too and perhaps Nicole…?’

  ‘I’d be happy to help. That way we can all get some sleep and we’ll only need a nurse during the day.’ She stood up, ‘Now, what would you both like for lunch? I can offer you cheese salad or a sandwich. Any preference?’