When Grace got to the door she was surprised to see a Police Service vehicle.
Two uniformed officers exited the front of the car and headed to the back door on the cottage side. They helped a limp and bruised Quinn out of the car and headed to the door.
“Miss, the only identification we could find on this lad was your B&B business card. He didn't want to go to the hospital, so we brought him here,” explained one of the officers.
“What....what happened to him?” Grace was concerned about Quinn's injuries.
“Miss, could we put him down somewhere first, and then we'll explain. This lad is kinda heavy,” the officer pleaded.
“Sure follow me,” Grace replied and without even thinking about it lead them to her downstairs bedroom. She pulled the coverlet off the bed so they could put Quinn on the sheets. He was barely conscious.
Once they had Quinn settled, the officers explained that a driver on the road called in that he found a man lying on the side of the road. Originally thinking this might be a drunk, the officers headed out to help him home. When they found him, he was face down on the side of the road, no identification, no wallet, nothing but his biking clothes and the business card for the cottage in his back pocket.
“Where is his bike?” Grace asked confused.
“Miss, there was no bike. We're thinking some hoodlums stopped him on the deserted road and beat him up for his money. We didn't know he had a bike. Guess we should have because of the way he's dressed. We'll keep and eye out for a bike that might get dumped somewhere. And when he's better, we will want to talk to him about what happened. We'll stop by in a day or two.”
“In a day or two? He'll be gone back to Dublin by then,” Grace explained expecting Quinn to be back at work on Monday.
“I don't think he'll be going anywhere for a few days, miss. In fact he needs some tending too with all those scrapes and bruises. And you'll need to keep an eye out for a concussion. Maybe even contact your local doc to check him out,” the officer seemed to be washing his hands of any care of Quinn.
“But, but....,” Grace was speechless. She had no idea what to say to all this. Resigned to deal with it, she dismissed the police officers and headed back to the bedroom. It was not until she entered the room that she realized she had just given up her bed to this partially conscious man.
Grace stood looking over Quinn for a moment trying to decide what she was going to do. It was too late to call a doctor. That would have to wait until morning. She was hoping that there were no internal injuries that would be a problem until then. He was filthy from lying in the dirt and his biking clothes were torn and bloody. Grace decided the first thing she needed to do was get Quinn cleaned up and that meant removing his clothes.
Grace figured that Quinn might have some clean clothes up in his room, so she took her master key and headed up to the room. Clean shirts, trousers, socks, and underwear, but nothing for pajamas. He must sleep in his briefs. Oh, joy, were the thoughts going through Grace's mind.
From the kitchen Grace gathered the first aid kit, some cloth towels, a bowl of warm water and her kitchen scissors. She was hardly the nursing type, but how difficult could this be? Grace had not thought about the fact that Quinn was almost twice her weight and a limp body. Moving him in any direction without his help would be nearly impossible. But it had to be done.
Standing over Quinn trying to figure out what to do, Grace was startled by a moan.
“Quinn? Quinn, can you hear me?” Grace asked hoping that Quinn was just waking up from all this and could handle it all himself.
Just another moan, nothing more. Quinn was really out of it. Grace told herself that all would be fine, she just needed to tend to Quinn. So she began by using the kitchen scissors to cut off his biking shirt and shorts. She breathed a sigh of relief when she realized that Quinn did have briefs under his bike shorts. Just one thing she did not want to deal with. The bike shorts were Lycra so they fit tightly to Quinn's body. Grace was careful not to stab Quinn with the scissors when she was cutting the shorts away. Once she had cut down each side seam, she was able to pull them off by sliding them away from Quinn's body.
His Lycra biking shirt was different. She could cut up the arms and to the neck, and then down the front, but pulling the shirt out from under Quinn was much more difficult. Through his moaning and her soft spoken encouragement, she was able to roll Quinn partly on his side to get part of the shirt out of the way, and then able to do the same on the other side pulling it out from under him.
So there lie Quinn in his briefs, that Grace had no intention of removing, bruised and cut. Grace spent the next hour cleaning and bandaging up Quinn the best she could. Once she did the initial cleaning she used a fresh towel on his forehead to keep him cool and comfortable. She wondered how long it had been since he had eaten and how did this happen to him.
It suddenly hit Grace that there might have been someone who Grace should contact about Quinn's situation, but she didn't have a clue. It was late, but it suddenly dawned on Grace who she should call....Peter. Why had she not thought of this before?
“Hello...,” a sleepy voice answered his cell phone.
“Peter, I have an emergency, can you come over right away?” Grace pleaded into the phone.
“Grace, what time is it? What's going on?” Peter was still waking up.
“Peter, just can you come over right away? I need your help,” Grace sounded worried.
“I'm coming Grace, don't blow a gasket,” Peter seemed a little annoyed, but Grace didn't care. She breathed a sigh of relief thinking that help was on the way. At least she hoped Peter could help.
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Sunday, September 11, 2011
All Roads Lead to Swatragh - Chapter 45
Grace finished up serving breakfast to Frances and her group and headed into her sitting and office area. She had work to do if she was going to be making any bookings for the week. When she sat down at the computer, instead of logging into the B&B website, she found herself typing in Quinn's name. From the paperwork he filled out for registration she used his last name to search about him. “Quinn Nolan, Dublin”
Grace tried to convince herself several times this was not right, but she continued the search. There were several small articles about a Quinn Nolan from the Dublin Institute of Technology and some awards won for Internet programs and Internet safety. Other than that, things were pretty scarce. She did find a Tommy Nolan, brother of Quinn Nolan who seemed to make the news for his marital problems. Things seem to have stemmed from a brawl in a pub because his wife left him. Other than that, there was nothing on this man. Grace shook her head, what was she doing searching one of her guests? At least there were no indications that Quinn was a womanizer. Why did she even care?
Grace was startled by a voice at the doorway. “Excuse me, Grace,” Frances said quietly. “Do ye mind if we sit out front and warm up some today? It's such a beautiful day out.”
“Frances, that would be fine. I'll open the windows here so you can fill the cottage with your wonderful music again,” this finally brought a smile back to Grace. She could work all day while listening to Frances sing and play.
By the time Frances and her friends had finished their warm up session, Grace had been able to book rooms for all but two days during the week, Monday and Tuesday. Frances getting out the word had filled the cottage up with musicians from Wednesday up to the weekend. Grace was going to be busy and was happy to have Monday and Tuesday off to plan meals and purchase supplies for the remainder of the week.
Peter stopped by to chat with Grace and talk about his engagement to Chloe. He thanked Grace for coming up to the cottage in the first place, since if she had not done that he would never had met the girl of his dreams. Grace was so happy to see Peter come out of his shell. Obviously Chloe had a very good influence on him, and he on her. Peter apologized for leaving Grace without someone to handle the B&B and said he would continue to keep up the grounds and whatever Grace needed. Knowing that he would stay on to help was something Grace appreciated.
Grace said goodbye to Peter after their chat and headed to the kitchen to start prepping for dinner. Once again she'd be making an early dinner for Frances and crew. She expected that Quinn might want something after his ride and made sure there was enough for him also.
Tonight's menu was grilled salmon with a lemon caper sauce, roasted potatoes, and a green salad with some fresh mango vinaigrette topping. The salad was something she adapted from a restaurant she had gone to in Dublin, and finding a mango at Fallon and Byrne before she headed up for the weekend was a real treat. Now she could try one of her own recipes to add to Aine's.
Frances and her crew raved about the dinner and were sad this would be the last night they stayed at the cottage for a while. Tomorrow the weekend would end for them and they would head back home. They did promise to pass on the word about the cottage and would be back themselves the next time they were booked to play at Rafters.
It was getting late, and Grace had already checked in the couple that had arrived for the night. Even though it stayed light until after ten, she was a little concerned that Quinn had not returned. She was not sure why she was worried, as he was a big boy and could take care of himself. She did feel bad about what had happened earlier in the morning and wanted to make it up to him. She had opened the bottle of wine he brought and set out two glasses for a “peace” toast when he arrived back.
By eleven, something was wrong, and Grace could feel it. Just something told her that something had happened to Quinn. Why was she worried? He was no concern of hers.
Then she heard the sound of a vehicle in her drive, but it was not a bike, it was a car....
Grace tried to convince herself several times this was not right, but she continued the search. There were several small articles about a Quinn Nolan from the Dublin Institute of Technology and some awards won for Internet programs and Internet safety. Other than that, things were pretty scarce. She did find a Tommy Nolan, brother of Quinn Nolan who seemed to make the news for his marital problems. Things seem to have stemmed from a brawl in a pub because his wife left him. Other than that, there was nothing on this man. Grace shook her head, what was she doing searching one of her guests? At least there were no indications that Quinn was a womanizer. Why did she even care?
Grace was startled by a voice at the doorway. “Excuse me, Grace,” Frances said quietly. “Do ye mind if we sit out front and warm up some today? It's such a beautiful day out.”
“Frances, that would be fine. I'll open the windows here so you can fill the cottage with your wonderful music again,” this finally brought a smile back to Grace. She could work all day while listening to Frances sing and play.
By the time Frances and her friends had finished their warm up session, Grace had been able to book rooms for all but two days during the week, Monday and Tuesday. Frances getting out the word had filled the cottage up with musicians from Wednesday up to the weekend. Grace was going to be busy and was happy to have Monday and Tuesday off to plan meals and purchase supplies for the remainder of the week.
Peter stopped by to chat with Grace and talk about his engagement to Chloe. He thanked Grace for coming up to the cottage in the first place, since if she had not done that he would never had met the girl of his dreams. Grace was so happy to see Peter come out of his shell. Obviously Chloe had a very good influence on him, and he on her. Peter apologized for leaving Grace without someone to handle the B&B and said he would continue to keep up the grounds and whatever Grace needed. Knowing that he would stay on to help was something Grace appreciated.
Grace said goodbye to Peter after their chat and headed to the kitchen to start prepping for dinner. Once again she'd be making an early dinner for Frances and crew. She expected that Quinn might want something after his ride and made sure there was enough for him also.
Tonight's menu was grilled salmon with a lemon caper sauce, roasted potatoes, and a green salad with some fresh mango vinaigrette topping. The salad was something she adapted from a restaurant she had gone to in Dublin, and finding a mango at Fallon and Byrne before she headed up for the weekend was a real treat. Now she could try one of her own recipes to add to Aine's.
Frances and her crew raved about the dinner and were sad this would be the last night they stayed at the cottage for a while. Tomorrow the weekend would end for them and they would head back home. They did promise to pass on the word about the cottage and would be back themselves the next time they were booked to play at Rafters.
It was getting late, and Grace had already checked in the couple that had arrived for the night. Even though it stayed light until after ten, she was a little concerned that Quinn had not returned. She was not sure why she was worried, as he was a big boy and could take care of himself. She did feel bad about what had happened earlier in the morning and wanted to make it up to him. She had opened the bottle of wine he brought and set out two glasses for a “peace” toast when he arrived back.
By eleven, something was wrong, and Grace could feel it. Just something told her that something had happened to Quinn. Why was she worried? He was no concern of hers.
Then she heard the sound of a vehicle in her drive, but it was not a bike, it was a car....
All Roads Lead to Swatragh - Chapter 44
It had been a restless night for Grace, but while she wished she could just pull the covers over her head and stay there forever, she had a B&B to run. Today another couple would be coming just to stay Saturday night, and she needed to check the possibility of more bookings during the week. She dragged herself out of bed, and let the hot water of the shower help to relax the tightness in her muscles. When she left her room she felt she looked refreshed, even though she was emotionally and physically exhausted.
No time to worry about her problems as Grace started the preparations for breakfast. She remembered that Frances and her group would be eating later as they got back from the pub during the wee hours of the morning. Quinn was heading out for a bike ride and she expected that he would want a more substantial breakfast like he had previously. She added some whiskey and honey to the porridge as it cooked and got the eggs and sausage started along with the tea. In the background she could hear the shower running upstairs and figured it would be Quinn getting ready for the day.
Grace was trying to avoid Quinn as much as possible, so she set the teapot on the table before he arrived along with the cream for the porridge. All she would have to do was bring in the eggs and porridge and she would be done. At least that's what her plan was. As always, not all plans go where we want them to and Grace once again found herself face to face with Quinn.
“Grace, is it something I've done? I get the feeling that I'm not welcome or wanted here. You could have turned me down last weekend when I asked about the room. What's going on here? I'm getting this strange vibe from you,” Quinn must have been thinking about approaching Grace about this before.
“I apologize, Quinn, if I've been any less than polite and courteous,” Grace was trying to avoid this at all cost.
“Oh, you are courteous, and polite, there's just something about how you act toward me as if I've done something wrong. I notice how tense you get when we converse, or when you have to have an exchange with me.” Quinn kept probing.
“What are you a psychologist?” Grace retorted before she could calm herself down.
“No, I manage an Internet company in Dublin. I just seem to be able to read people well,” Quinn was obviously confused by Grace. “Or I thought I could...”
“Look, Quinn, some people just don't hit it off. I'm not angry or upset with you. Just your type is not the kind of person I relish dealing with,” Grace was trying to make excuses for her attitude toward Quinn.
“My TYPE! What's that? You don't even know me, or my TYPE!” Quinn was obviously starting to get a little irritated with this conversation. “I don't even know why I'm standing here having this discussion with you. Forget breakfast, I'll stop somewhere on the road. I'm heading up for a ride toward the Downhill Demense and back. I'll be back later tonight,” Quinn turned and headed out the door not even looking back at Grace who was standing there with the tray of porridge and eggs.
Grace dropped her head in frustration. She was angry at herself for how she behaved. She knew better, and Quinn was not Braden. She didn't even know Quinn or what he was like. He was right. Why should she be making such emotional transfers based just on how she perceived Quinn? There was very little time to get herself back together as she could hear the showers running upstairs. Frances and her crew were up a little earlier than she expected. Time to start preparations for their breakfast.
...............................
Outside Quinn unlocked his bike, grabbed a couple of water bottles from the back of the car, hopped on and took off. He was fuming. What did he do to this woman? This was why he steered clear of any long term relationships. A few social dates for business was his plan. Even though his friends were just about all married, he was hesitant of the complications of a long term relationship. He had watched his older brother go through a very nasty separation, and seem the same with several friends who rushed into marriage. This was not for him. He had been told he was a handsome lad and women would be flocking to him. This made him even more uncomfortable. He put his head down and sped up his ride. In no time he was in Coleraine wishing he had the chance to eat Grace's breakfast. Now he had to stop and get something here.
No time to worry about her problems as Grace started the preparations for breakfast. She remembered that Frances and her group would be eating later as they got back from the pub during the wee hours of the morning. Quinn was heading out for a bike ride and she expected that he would want a more substantial breakfast like he had previously. She added some whiskey and honey to the porridge as it cooked and got the eggs and sausage started along with the tea. In the background she could hear the shower running upstairs and figured it would be Quinn getting ready for the day.
Grace was trying to avoid Quinn as much as possible, so she set the teapot on the table before he arrived along with the cream for the porridge. All she would have to do was bring in the eggs and porridge and she would be done. At least that's what her plan was. As always, not all plans go where we want them to and Grace once again found herself face to face with Quinn.
“Grace, is it something I've done? I get the feeling that I'm not welcome or wanted here. You could have turned me down last weekend when I asked about the room. What's going on here? I'm getting this strange vibe from you,” Quinn must have been thinking about approaching Grace about this before.
“I apologize, Quinn, if I've been any less than polite and courteous,” Grace was trying to avoid this at all cost.
“Oh, you are courteous, and polite, there's just something about how you act toward me as if I've done something wrong. I notice how tense you get when we converse, or when you have to have an exchange with me.” Quinn kept probing.
“What are you a psychologist?” Grace retorted before she could calm herself down.
“No, I manage an Internet company in Dublin. I just seem to be able to read people well,” Quinn was obviously confused by Grace. “Or I thought I could...”
“Look, Quinn, some people just don't hit it off. I'm not angry or upset with you. Just your type is not the kind of person I relish dealing with,” Grace was trying to make excuses for her attitude toward Quinn.
“My TYPE! What's that? You don't even know me, or my TYPE!” Quinn was obviously starting to get a little irritated with this conversation. “I don't even know why I'm standing here having this discussion with you. Forget breakfast, I'll stop somewhere on the road. I'm heading up for a ride toward the Downhill Demense and back. I'll be back later tonight,” Quinn turned and headed out the door not even looking back at Grace who was standing there with the tray of porridge and eggs.
Grace dropped her head in frustration. She was angry at herself for how she behaved. She knew better, and Quinn was not Braden. She didn't even know Quinn or what he was like. He was right. Why should she be making such emotional transfers based just on how she perceived Quinn? There was very little time to get herself back together as she could hear the showers running upstairs. Frances and her crew were up a little earlier than she expected. Time to start preparations for their breakfast.
...............................
Outside Quinn unlocked his bike, grabbed a couple of water bottles from the back of the car, hopped on and took off. He was fuming. What did he do to this woman? This was why he steered clear of any long term relationships. A few social dates for business was his plan. Even though his friends were just about all married, he was hesitant of the complications of a long term relationship. He had watched his older brother go through a very nasty separation, and seem the same with several friends who rushed into marriage. This was not for him. He had been told he was a handsome lad and women would be flocking to him. This made him even more uncomfortable. He put his head down and sped up his ride. In no time he was in Coleraine wishing he had the chance to eat Grace's breakfast. Now he had to stop and get something here.
Saturday, September 10, 2011
All Roads Lead to Swatragh - Chapter 43
Five years earlier......
Grace had just started at a marketing firm. She was selected out of a pool of about 50 candidates, but had been the top of her class at the university and showed she was the best candidates for this job. She got along with her co-workers and her work was appreciated by her bosses. Each morning when she arrived at work she noticed another young man entering the building about the same time. They started out smiling and nodding to each other and then started to talk on the way up the elevator.
His name was Braden and he also was a recent university graduate and worked at a law office as an intern a few floors above Grace. He was very professional looking, sharp and a very stylish dresser. Braden knew he was good looking and took advantage of that with women as often as he could. Unfortunately, Grace never saw this until it was too late.
He was slick. First it was coffee, then lunch. He developed their relationship very slowly so Grace never knew what hit her. By the time they were dating on a regular basis, he had been coming over to Grace's for dinner a couple times a week. He convinced her that it was so much nicer and more comfortable eating at her place than always eating out. But he never contributed toward the food, or supplies. Every once in a while he would bring a bottle of wine, but that was it. Grace thought this was how it worked. She was getting in too deep and put all her feelings out there for Braden to see. She really didn't share this relationship information with her friends at work.
If she had they would have let her in on this operator. Grace and Braden were constantly together after work. After a while, he needed to spend some late nights at work, first once a week, then twice and by the time he was spending three nights a week late at the office and not able to see Grace at all, she got suspicious. It was at this point she talked to one of the girls in the office and found out that Braden was slowly moving on. He would hook up with one girl, then slowly move to another when he felt the relationship was getting too serious. The problem was at this point Grace had fallen in love with Braden.
She thought she could convince Braden that it would work out. But she was in over her head and he wanted nothing to do with her anymore. He had moved on. He was having his dinners with a girl from a building across the street. One night he was so exasperated with the pleading from Grace that he unloaded on her, calling her needy and pathetic. A poor excuse for a girlfriend and someone who could not even cook. Grace had vested all her energy into this relationship and now he crushed her emotionally.
Grace moped around for weeks after that. Up to that point she had never had a serious relationship with a man. Her focus was school and getting her degree in marketing. There was no time for men in her life. Even her friends could not get her to leave the flat for a movie. She was like a robot at work. There was no joy in her job. It was then that she left the firm she started at and moved to the firm where she worked currently. Hoping a fresh start would make all the difference.
...........................
And over the past five years she had forgotten all about the hurt and emotional drain that Braden caused. It was not until tonight when she really thought about what it was about Quinn that bothered her so much that it all came back to her.
Grace had buried all those feelings and went on with her life and was happy. Why was she falling apart now? The tears continued while she cleaned up all the dishes from dinner and crawled into bed. She hated Braden for what he had done to her.
Grace had just started at a marketing firm. She was selected out of a pool of about 50 candidates, but had been the top of her class at the university and showed she was the best candidates for this job. She got along with her co-workers and her work was appreciated by her bosses. Each morning when she arrived at work she noticed another young man entering the building about the same time. They started out smiling and nodding to each other and then started to talk on the way up the elevator.
His name was Braden and he also was a recent university graduate and worked at a law office as an intern a few floors above Grace. He was very professional looking, sharp and a very stylish dresser. Braden knew he was good looking and took advantage of that with women as often as he could. Unfortunately, Grace never saw this until it was too late.
He was slick. First it was coffee, then lunch. He developed their relationship very slowly so Grace never knew what hit her. By the time they were dating on a regular basis, he had been coming over to Grace's for dinner a couple times a week. He convinced her that it was so much nicer and more comfortable eating at her place than always eating out. But he never contributed toward the food, or supplies. Every once in a while he would bring a bottle of wine, but that was it. Grace thought this was how it worked. She was getting in too deep and put all her feelings out there for Braden to see. She really didn't share this relationship information with her friends at work.
If she had they would have let her in on this operator. Grace and Braden were constantly together after work. After a while, he needed to spend some late nights at work, first once a week, then twice and by the time he was spending three nights a week late at the office and not able to see Grace at all, she got suspicious. It was at this point she talked to one of the girls in the office and found out that Braden was slowly moving on. He would hook up with one girl, then slowly move to another when he felt the relationship was getting too serious. The problem was at this point Grace had fallen in love with Braden.
She thought she could convince Braden that it would work out. But she was in over her head and he wanted nothing to do with her anymore. He had moved on. He was having his dinners with a girl from a building across the street. One night he was so exasperated with the pleading from Grace that he unloaded on her, calling her needy and pathetic. A poor excuse for a girlfriend and someone who could not even cook. Grace had vested all her energy into this relationship and now he crushed her emotionally.
Grace moped around for weeks after that. Up to that point she had never had a serious relationship with a man. Her focus was school and getting her degree in marketing. There was no time for men in her life. Even her friends could not get her to leave the flat for a movie. She was like a robot at work. There was no joy in her job. It was then that she left the firm she started at and moved to the firm where she worked currently. Hoping a fresh start would make all the difference.
...........................
And over the past five years she had forgotten all about the hurt and emotional drain that Braden caused. It was not until tonight when she really thought about what it was about Quinn that bothered her so much that it all came back to her.
Grace had buried all those feelings and went on with her life and was happy. Why was she falling apart now? The tears continued while she cleaned up all the dishes from dinner and crawled into bed. She hated Braden for what he had done to her.
All Roads Lead to Swatragh - Chapter 42
Just after Grace finished serving dinner to Frances and her group she heard the sound of another car in the front courtyard. There was another couple arriving on Saturday, but she only expected one more person tonight, and this had to be him.
As she walked to open the door she saw Quinn getting out of the car. He certainly looked different than he had in his biking clothes. He was in business attire looking like he just left work. His tie was loosened, and the top 2 buttons on his shirt opened. But his angular looks and tussled black hair gave him the look of a GQ model. Grace's eyes were transfixed on Quinn when he turned from grabbing his bag from the back seat and saw her. He smiled as he turned to walk to the door. Grace could feel her heart in her throat.
“Is it okay if I leave my bike out here tonight. It's locked to the rack on the back,” Quinn asked as he climbed up the stairs to the door.
“It should be just fine, unless it rains,” responded Grace as she slid to the side to let Quinn through.
“Hey, that smells wonderful. I didn't know you served dinner here. I was going to drop my things off and head to town,” Quinn seemed to be asking as he entered.
“I provide dinner by prior arrangement for those guests who ask,” Grace didn't want to make it easy for Quinn.
“Grace, we have plenty of food left here,” called Frances from the dining room as she must have heard the conversation.
“That would be just great,” Quinn replied before Grace could say any more, and he dropped his bag by the door and headed to the dining room, introducing himself as he entered.
Grace was already annoyed with this and was gritting her teeth in annoyance. She headed to the kitchen to get Quinn a dish and some silverware and almost ran into him as she came through the door to the dining room.
“What is it with you and my kitchen?” Grace practically yelled at Quinn.
“I'm sorry,” he said apologetically. “I was just going to ask if I could help. I did bring something for you.” Quinn turned and went to recover a bottle of wine he had in his bag. “I thought I'd bring this as a peace offering from crashing in on your place last weekend.”
Grace managed a terse “thank you”, and set Quinn's table setting at the far end of the table as if ostracizing him.
Frances and her musicians immediately started a conversation with Quinn and asked him to move closer. Grace left the room and settled herself in the kitchen working on the dessert. Inside she felt confused. Why did being around Quinn make her so unsettled? Yes, he was quite handsome, and in a strange way pretty personable. Was he too slick? He reminded her so much of.......THAT WAS IT! And her heart sunk.
Grace was a different person when she carried the dessert tray out to the dining room. Quiet and sullen. As she set the plates down even Frances noticed and asked if she was okay. Her stock answer was “just fine” and a forced smile.
It was just a bit later when Frances and her group left for Rafter's and Quinn quietly headed up to the single room to change. When he came down Grace was in the big sitting room reading, or trying to read. She had cleared the table, but left all the dishes to do later. This was very unusual for her.
“Grace, are you sure you are okay?” Quinn asked.
“I'm just fine. Aren't you going out?” Grace replied curtly. “Your key is on the table.”
Quinn looked a little disappointed, or sad. Grace could not tell. He did not press the situation, and quietly left the cottage.
Grace was just staring at the pages of the book. And then she began to cry.
As she walked to open the door she saw Quinn getting out of the car. He certainly looked different than he had in his biking clothes. He was in business attire looking like he just left work. His tie was loosened, and the top 2 buttons on his shirt opened. But his angular looks and tussled black hair gave him the look of a GQ model. Grace's eyes were transfixed on Quinn when he turned from grabbing his bag from the back seat and saw her. He smiled as he turned to walk to the door. Grace could feel her heart in her throat.
“Is it okay if I leave my bike out here tonight. It's locked to the rack on the back,” Quinn asked as he climbed up the stairs to the door.
“It should be just fine, unless it rains,” responded Grace as she slid to the side to let Quinn through.
“Hey, that smells wonderful. I didn't know you served dinner here. I was going to drop my things off and head to town,” Quinn seemed to be asking as he entered.
“I provide dinner by prior arrangement for those guests who ask,” Grace didn't want to make it easy for Quinn.
“Grace, we have plenty of food left here,” called Frances from the dining room as she must have heard the conversation.
“That would be just great,” Quinn replied before Grace could say any more, and he dropped his bag by the door and headed to the dining room, introducing himself as he entered.
Grace was already annoyed with this and was gritting her teeth in annoyance. She headed to the kitchen to get Quinn a dish and some silverware and almost ran into him as she came through the door to the dining room.
“What is it with you and my kitchen?” Grace practically yelled at Quinn.
“I'm sorry,” he said apologetically. “I was just going to ask if I could help. I did bring something for you.” Quinn turned and went to recover a bottle of wine he had in his bag. “I thought I'd bring this as a peace offering from crashing in on your place last weekend.”
Grace managed a terse “thank you”, and set Quinn's table setting at the far end of the table as if ostracizing him.
Frances and her musicians immediately started a conversation with Quinn and asked him to move closer. Grace left the room and settled herself in the kitchen working on the dessert. Inside she felt confused. Why did being around Quinn make her so unsettled? Yes, he was quite handsome, and in a strange way pretty personable. Was he too slick? He reminded her so much of.......THAT WAS IT! And her heart sunk.
Grace was a different person when she carried the dessert tray out to the dining room. Quiet and sullen. As she set the plates down even Frances noticed and asked if she was okay. Her stock answer was “just fine” and a forced smile.
It was just a bit later when Frances and her group left for Rafter's and Quinn quietly headed up to the single room to change. When he came down Grace was in the big sitting room reading, or trying to read. She had cleared the table, but left all the dishes to do later. This was very unusual for her.
“Grace, are you sure you are okay?” Quinn asked.
“I'm just fine. Aren't you going out?” Grace replied curtly. “Your key is on the table.”
Quinn looked a little disappointed, or sad. Grace could not tell. He did not press the situation, and quietly left the cottage.
Grace was just staring at the pages of the book. And then she began to cry.
Monday, September 5, 2011
All Roads Lead to Swatragh - Chapter 41
It was as if Donovan knew what time the girls would arrive on Fridays. He was sitting on his front stoop as Grace pulled up. As she exited the car and turned toward him, he waved. Now this was something new. What was Donovan up to? Grace always had the slight suspicious bent toward her relationships. Never quite trusting others, especially men. Always wondering about ulterior motives in people. She had not always been like this, but that was another story altogether. Some subjects are best left well enough alone.
“Donovan, how are you doing? You seem to be in great spirits today,” Grace greeted Donovan as she walked across the road.
“Grace, by now you must know the good news about Peter and Chloe,” Donovan touted as if he had a secret that Grace didn't know.
“Of course, Donovan, it's grand news, isn't it? Now Chloe will be up here all the time in a few weeks,” Grace thought this might deflate Donovan a bit.
Donovan was not one to be put down. His response was as sharp as a tack. “So I hear Chloe is going to take a job. What will ye be doin' now that she won't be keepin up the B&B?” He was plying Grace for answers.
Grace had her own tactics, and was not going to crumble to Donovan's pushing the issue. “For now, Donovan, I have guests to get ready for tonight and this weekend. Things will work themselves out, I'm sure.” Grace was not going to let Donovan know that she was staying at the cottage for the entire next week. He'd have to find that out as the days passed. And for now she had avoided his question as to what was going to happen.
Grace smiled and returned to her car to get the groceries she had purchased secure in the fact that for the time being she had shut Donovan down. But he did ask the question that was in the back of her mind the entire trip up to Swatragh. And a slight frown crept across her brow as she entered the B&B.
And full weekend lie ahead of her. This was the weekend when the band would be coming to stay. They would arrive early and had asked after the possibility of dinner before they headed out to their gig at Rafter's that night. Grade unloaded the supplies and got started on a bean and sausage casserole that she could keep piping hot and have ready at a moments notice. A nice fresh salad with some green grapes for some sweetness would be perfect with some brown bread on the side. These were simple meals, but most of the guests appreciated the country style cooking. They were not looking for fancy. Just good home cooked meals. Grace also made a quick berry and apple cobbler to have on hand for dessert.
As she checked on the casserole, there was a knock at the door. It was Frances and her band mates.
“I hope we are not too early?” she queried.
“Not at all, I'm Grace, your hostess. Please come on in,” Grace smiled and welcomed her guests. She got them all checked in and set up in their rooms telling them dinner would be ready when they were wanting it.
Frances asked if there was a place where they could do a little musical warm up before eating and Grace directed them to the large sitting room. As Grace continued working in the kitchen music filled the cottage. Every nook and cranny took in every note that was played. Francis voice moved throughout the rooms as it they had been craving this attention for too long. Grace found herself smiling and swaying to the music as she worked.
No sooner had Grace set the table and started to put out the food than the group finished their warm up. But the feel of the music remained to surround the cottage.
“That was absolutely lovely,” Grace told Frances. It's been too long since this place has been filled with music.
“Well, Grace, we'd be more than happy to recommend this place to our musician friends, but they need a place during the week also. Many of the pubs up this way have music on Thursday nights too, some even on Wednesday.” Frances explained to Grace.
“I've been trying to work out keeping the place open all week, but so far it's been difficult. I will be up here all this next week and would welcome another group during the week. I definitely have vacancies.” Grace's mind was busy creating ideas as they flew through her head.
“Consider it done, lassie,” Frances responded, and with that, Grace knew what she was going to have to do.
“Donovan, how are you doing? You seem to be in great spirits today,” Grace greeted Donovan as she walked across the road.
“Grace, by now you must know the good news about Peter and Chloe,” Donovan touted as if he had a secret that Grace didn't know.
“Of course, Donovan, it's grand news, isn't it? Now Chloe will be up here all the time in a few weeks,” Grace thought this might deflate Donovan a bit.
Donovan was not one to be put down. His response was as sharp as a tack. “So I hear Chloe is going to take a job. What will ye be doin' now that she won't be keepin up the B&B?” He was plying Grace for answers.
Grace had her own tactics, and was not going to crumble to Donovan's pushing the issue. “For now, Donovan, I have guests to get ready for tonight and this weekend. Things will work themselves out, I'm sure.” Grace was not going to let Donovan know that she was staying at the cottage for the entire next week. He'd have to find that out as the days passed. And for now she had avoided his question as to what was going to happen.
Grace smiled and returned to her car to get the groceries she had purchased secure in the fact that for the time being she had shut Donovan down. But he did ask the question that was in the back of her mind the entire trip up to Swatragh. And a slight frown crept across her brow as she entered the B&B.
And full weekend lie ahead of her. This was the weekend when the band would be coming to stay. They would arrive early and had asked after the possibility of dinner before they headed out to their gig at Rafter's that night. Grade unloaded the supplies and got started on a bean and sausage casserole that she could keep piping hot and have ready at a moments notice. A nice fresh salad with some green grapes for some sweetness would be perfect with some brown bread on the side. These were simple meals, but most of the guests appreciated the country style cooking. They were not looking for fancy. Just good home cooked meals. Grace also made a quick berry and apple cobbler to have on hand for dessert.
As she checked on the casserole, there was a knock at the door. It was Frances and her band mates.
“I hope we are not too early?” she queried.
“Not at all, I'm Grace, your hostess. Please come on in,” Grace smiled and welcomed her guests. She got them all checked in and set up in their rooms telling them dinner would be ready when they were wanting it.
Frances asked if there was a place where they could do a little musical warm up before eating and Grace directed them to the large sitting room. As Grace continued working in the kitchen music filled the cottage. Every nook and cranny took in every note that was played. Francis voice moved throughout the rooms as it they had been craving this attention for too long. Grace found herself smiling and swaying to the music as she worked.
No sooner had Grace set the table and started to put out the food than the group finished their warm up. But the feel of the music remained to surround the cottage.
“That was absolutely lovely,” Grace told Frances. It's been too long since this place has been filled with music.
“Well, Grace, we'd be more than happy to recommend this place to our musician friends, but they need a place during the week also. Many of the pubs up this way have music on Thursday nights too, some even on Wednesday.” Frances explained to Grace.
“I've been trying to work out keeping the place open all week, but so far it's been difficult. I will be up here all this next week and would welcome another group during the week. I definitely have vacancies.” Grace's mind was busy creating ideas as they flew through her head.
“Consider it done, lassie,” Frances responded, and with that, Grace knew what she was going to have to do.
Sunday, September 4, 2011
All Roads Lead to Swatragh - Chapter 40
Grace knew that at some point Chloe would not want to stay at the cottage every weekend, but had not suspected it to be this soon. And hardly expected it to be this way. She was happy for Chloe, but now had to make more decisions.
They did agree that for the next three weeks, until Grace's next planned weekend stay at the cottage, Chloe would still take care of things. During this time she would give her two weeks notice at the firm. gradually move out of her flat a little each weekend, and move those things that she wanted to get to Swatragh to Peter's house for storage. Other things she could take to the cottage to keep there. That at least gave Grace at least 3 weeks to try and work something out.
All this time Grace had also been busy booking the cottage for every weekend. Many of the guests were repeat guests, and new ones were coming all the time. She had received a lot of requests for bookings during the week, and had to turn them down. It was time to crunch numbers again and see if having the cottage open all week would make enough money to support herself. She had already taken some money from her savings for updates to the cottage and supplies, so she hoped to not have to dip more into her savings.
As the weeks passed, and the end of the month arrived, she knew she was now in a bind again. With only one week of vacation left on the books, she put in a request to take the following week off. She would go up to the cottage on Friday morning, stay the entire week and the next weekend, to sort things out. As long as she was there, she also booked guests for the weekdays when it was requested, and was surprised that there was at least one room booked out every night. She hoped being up in Swatragh would help clear her head so she could figure this all out.
Chloe had decided to stay in Dublin to get packing done, so the downstairs bedroom would be Grace's alone for the weekend. The cottage was booked full, and that strange Quinn would be there, too. Whenever Grace thought of him she had this strange feeling in the pit of her stomach. She couldn't quite explain it, he just made her feel uneasy.
After work on Thursday Grace did a little shopping for some specialty items at Fallon and Byrne in Dublin. They carried some delicious variations to what a person normally would cook with, and Grace was now adding some of her own touches to Aine's recipes. So far all had received rave review by the guests.
Most other shopping would be done as she passed through Cookstown on Friday morning. The farmer's market would have fresh produce in abundance. She had also found a favorite butcher shop on the way to pick up any other items she needed. Grace had found that she really enjoyed strolling down the main street choosing items that were just in from the farms. As she did this, she imagined Aine doing the same thing over the years, purchasing local produce and meats from local farmers. Grace had found the number for a local chicken farmer in Aine's notebook who delivered fresh eggs on Friday afternoons knowing about when she or Chloe would arrive.
It was obvious that being out in the countryside changed Grace's disposition from the hectic workweek. She felt so very comfortable when she was in Swatragh. After all these months of fighting the feeling, Grace now realized what Aine had known for years. Grace belonged at the cottage. This is where she was truly happy.
They did agree that for the next three weeks, until Grace's next planned weekend stay at the cottage, Chloe would still take care of things. During this time she would give her two weeks notice at the firm. gradually move out of her flat a little each weekend, and move those things that she wanted to get to Swatragh to Peter's house for storage. Other things she could take to the cottage to keep there. That at least gave Grace at least 3 weeks to try and work something out.
All this time Grace had also been busy booking the cottage for every weekend. Many of the guests were repeat guests, and new ones were coming all the time. She had received a lot of requests for bookings during the week, and had to turn them down. It was time to crunch numbers again and see if having the cottage open all week would make enough money to support herself. She had already taken some money from her savings for updates to the cottage and supplies, so she hoped to not have to dip more into her savings.
As the weeks passed, and the end of the month arrived, she knew she was now in a bind again. With only one week of vacation left on the books, she put in a request to take the following week off. She would go up to the cottage on Friday morning, stay the entire week and the next weekend, to sort things out. As long as she was there, she also booked guests for the weekdays when it was requested, and was surprised that there was at least one room booked out every night. She hoped being up in Swatragh would help clear her head so she could figure this all out.
Chloe had decided to stay in Dublin to get packing done, so the downstairs bedroom would be Grace's alone for the weekend. The cottage was booked full, and that strange Quinn would be there, too. Whenever Grace thought of him she had this strange feeling in the pit of her stomach. She couldn't quite explain it, he just made her feel uneasy.
After work on Thursday Grace did a little shopping for some specialty items at Fallon and Byrne in Dublin. They carried some delicious variations to what a person normally would cook with, and Grace was now adding some of her own touches to Aine's recipes. So far all had received rave review by the guests.
Most other shopping would be done as she passed through Cookstown on Friday morning. The farmer's market would have fresh produce in abundance. She had also found a favorite butcher shop on the way to pick up any other items she needed. Grace had found that she really enjoyed strolling down the main street choosing items that were just in from the farms. As she did this, she imagined Aine doing the same thing over the years, purchasing local produce and meats from local farmers. Grace had found the number for a local chicken farmer in Aine's notebook who delivered fresh eggs on Friday afternoons knowing about when she or Chloe would arrive.
It was obvious that being out in the countryside changed Grace's disposition from the hectic workweek. She felt so very comfortable when she was in Swatragh. After all these months of fighting the feeling, Grace now realized what Aine had known for years. Grace belonged at the cottage. This is where she was truly happy.
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