Chapter 4
When Ashley awoke the next morning, everything hurt. Her head was throbbing like it was about to explode, and her mouth was so dry she could barely swallow. It was 11:45 a.m. and she groaned as she rolled over in bed and slowly opened her eyes. She squinted as the harsh sun light stung her eyes and she had to blink a few times until they adjusted.
She gasped in horror at the black creature sitting on the bed staring at her with its one beady eye. It was her mom's old cat, Jasper, although his fur was more patchy than she remembered. She was surprised he was still alive, she thought he’d died already. Surely he'd be close to twenty years old.
He stared at her, a bit of drool dangled precariously from his lower lip.
“Rowr.” His meow sounded more like a creaky floorboard. He lifted a front left paw and began licking it, revealing missing teeth. Ashley felt her stomach churn, repulsed by his appearance.
She slowly stood up, supporting herself on the bedside table, pressing one hand to her face.
There was a glass of water beside her bed and she downed the whole thing. She had slept in an old oversized T-shirt and socks so she ruffled through her suitcase until she found her tracksuit pants, and pulled them on. She was still lacking the motivation to unpack. She made her way downstairs to the kitchen, opened the medicine cabinet in search of the Alka-Seltzer packet and found a note on the counter top.
Ash,
Hope you had a good night with Bryan and Jess.
We've gone to church.
Help yourself to breakfast.
We'll be home around noon.
Mom
xx
She shouldn't have drunk so much. Martin and Jane must have known she’d had a big night out, and now they were at church. She could only imagine the lecture she’d get when they came home. Her head hurt too much to even think about it right now. She swallowed a dose of Alka Seltzer, then went upstairs to shower.
She stepped out of the shower and wiped the bathroom mirror to remove the condensation. Her skin looked pale and colorless.
She ran her fingers up and over her cheekbones, pulling the skin taut and admiring the instant improvement. Sighing, she let go.
There was a knock on the bathroom door.
“You in there, Ash?” It was her mother.
She quickly wrapped a towel around herself.
“Yeah.”
“I'm going to make some lunch—is there anything you want? I have some nice gluten-free bread from Bryan’s shop. Do you want a ham sandwich?”
Ashley felt an involuntary lurch from the pit of her stomach and desperately lunged for the toilet bowl as the remainder of last night’s drinks and spaghetti bolognese violently departed in an unladylike manner.
“Honey?” Her mom knocked at the door again. “You all right?”
“I'll be down in a minute.” Ashley grabbed for some toilet paper to wipe her mouth.
When Ashely made it downstairs, Martin was sitting on a bench stool eating a ham salad sandwich and reading the local newspaper, while Jane busied herself preparing a sandwich.
“Here she is.” Jane smiled.
“Whoa! If you're auditioning for a role on that zombie TV show, consider yourself hired!” Martin said. Jane playfully smacked him on the shoulder.
“Big night?” Martin asked more seriously.
“Yeah. Too big.” Ashley groaned, sitting down beside him. Jane handed her a cup of coffee.
“How was your dinner with the Johnsons?”
“It was lovely. You should see their new Winnebago, Ashley. It's incredible. Isn't it incredible, Martin?”
Martin nodded and went back to reading the paper.
“It is like a house on wheels! It has a kitchen, bathroom, bedroom—”
“Lounge,” Martin added.
“Lounge. They're taking it on vacation next week and travelling all the way to the East Coast. I'd like to do something like that. Wouldn't you like to do something like that one day, Martin?” Jane asked.
“What? Oh, yeah, one day.” He wasn't paying attention.
“Grandma and Grandpa are coming for dinner tonight, Ash, or did I tell you that already? I can't remember if I did or not—my head’s all over the place this week.” Jane smiled as she closed her eyes and shook her head.
“Just this week?” Martin asked.
“Would you stop it?” Jane glared at Martin, suppressing a smile at his comments.
Martin chuckled.
As far as potential step-dads went, Martin Kingsley was great. Her mother and Martin had met six years ago, when she she’d rescued him after a surfing accident while she was on vacation in California. They kept in touch over the internet, which was ironic considering that both of them were technologically challenged. The relationship had flourished from there, and he had moved to Sweet Home three years ago to settle down and retire after selling his painting business in California. Ashley had always thought it was bizarre that someone would willingly move from California to Sweet Home to retire—it seemed like going backwards to her—but Martin explained that love made you do crazy things.
Martin checked his watch. “I’d better get going. I told Pastor Barry I'd meet him around one.” He quickly finished his tea and kissed Jane, then headed for the door.
“Pastor Barry wants his house painted,” Jane said. “And Martin loves any excuse to use his knowledge and expertise in painting.” She smiled contentedly as she watched him leave.
“Well, we're all set for the wedding on Saturday,” Jane said, changing the subject. “We've got eighty guests coming. Can you believe that? The numbers seem to keep growing and growing, but there's enough room in the garden to accommodate everyone, so that will be fine. We need to finish up getting the lawn ready this week and Jay will be delivering the gazebo-”
“Jay?” Ashley interrupted, recoiling at the mention of his name.
“Yes, honey. I've asked Jay Henderson—you remember him—to construct us a gazebo. It's the prettiest thing you ever did see. And afterwards it will make a stunning focal piece for the garden. It's big enough for a little table and chairs, perfect for us to have afternoon tea in. I spoke with Jay earlier today and he's going to deliver it for us on Saturday morning before the wedding. Is everything OK?” Jane asked. “You look a bit pale.”
Ashley sighed. Jay had appeared ambivalent upon seeing her but she’d hoped they wouldn’t be running into each other again any time soon.
Ashley shook her head, managing a small smile. “I'm OK, a massive headache. I knew I shouldn't have gone out last night. I might go and have a walk around the garden; get some fresh air.”
“That sounds like a great idea. Some sunshine will do you good. Got to get that vitamin D into you.” Jane walked over and kissed Ashley on the top of her head. “It's good to have you home.”
The garden was stunning. The lawn was thick, lush, and green. There were short hedges covered in different colored flowers, and several butterflies and bees busily got to work collecting nectar and pollen.
Just beyond the hedge were several large sugar maples, and beyond them, the lake. Ashley could see glimpses of the water as the sun reflected off the lake’s surface, flashing golden light through the gaps between the trees.
It was warm, and everything smelled clean and fresh and green.
She made her way down the small decline which led to another open lawn area, the larger space where Jane and Martin would have both their ceremony and reception. The view from the lake was much clearer here, and the water looked cool and inviting. To the back of the garden was a trail which led to the small jetty. Ashley strolled along the narrow path, listening to the sounds of the birds calling to one another and the gentle breeze as it rustled through the leaves.
The old timber jetty was still there. It was worn, but stable and Ashley walked along, peering over the edge at the water below. She sat down and dangled her feet in the water.
Ah. That feels better.
She m
oved her feet backwards and forwards through the cool water, closing her eyes. The sunlight warmed her entire body and her headache seemed to be easing.
Her phone rang.
She pulled it out of her pocket and answered it. Steven.
“Hi.” She was glad to hear from him.
“Hey, how's it all going?”
“Not too bad. I'm hanging out at Moms. I had dinner at Bryan’s last night and my grandparents are coming over for dinner tonight. How’s everything there? Did you manage to get that work done that you had to finish up on Friday night?”
“Yeah, yeah. Everything's fine here. I'm packing my things for Tokyo now.”
“I thought you weren't going until Thursday.” Ashley said.
“I'm not, but this week is going to be flat out at work so I figured I may as well do it while I've got the time.”
There was a slight pause.
“Have you thought any more about what I asked you the other night? About moving in?”
“I have. I mean I’ve thought about it, but I'm still not sure. It's a pretty big step.”
“We pretty much live together as it is. I don't get why you can't commit.” He sounded annoyed, angry even.
Ashley was taken aback by his tone.
“It's not like we're getting married or anything.”
“I know, I know. It's just, something doesn't feel right about it.”
Steven laughed through the phone. “That's a terrible excuse. No offence, but something doesn't feel right' doesn't even make sense. Facts do, and the fact is, it makes way more sense for us to be living together than paying for separate apartments.”
Why is he pushing so hard?
“I'll think about it.” It was the best she could do.
“Don't think about it, just do it. If you spend too long thinking about things you’ll end up missing the opportunity.”
“What's that supposed to mean?” Now she was beginning to feel annoyed.
Steven didn't respond.
“Steven?”
“Nothing. I shouldn't have even said it. Take all the time you need. I told you I'd wait until you got back, so that's what I'll do.”
A million thoughts were racing through Ashley’s mind. One second he was angry and demanding, the next he was sweet and trying to be patient. It seemed hypocritical that he could claim that she couldn't commit to moving in with him, yet he couldn't he commit to marrying her. Why was one action totally acceptable to him, yet the other was completely unacceptable?
“Are you mad? I'm sorry, I don't want to fight.” Steven spoke again. “I get these ideas and want everything to go according to plan and usually they do, so I don't know how to deal when I can't get what I want. Guess that's something I'll have to learn to get used to, huh?”
Ashley softened. He was pushy—she knew that—but at least he was trying. “With me? Oh yeah.” She laughed.
“Good to hear you laugh. I'd better go and finish this packing.”
“OK, I love you,” Ashley said.
“You too,” he replied and hung up.
She sat there, staring at her phone. It was difficult to tell Steven how she was feeling. He had always been easy to offend. She had learnt to be pleasant, friendly, and often suppressed her own desires and emotions to gain the approval of others—especially Steven's. He encouraged her to think logically and not to let emotions or feelings get in the way when making decisions, something she’d struggled with. He often dismissed anything she said that began with, “I feel like...”. She knew he loved her and she could rely on him, even if he wasn't overly romantic. He just liked to do things his own way.
She lay back on the jetty and squinted up at the sky. It was a stunning azure, not a cloud in sight. The conversation had left her feeling unsettled. Watching her parents’ marriage, and her brother’s, had shown her that although the males were clearly the heads of the homes, they not only valued their partner’s feelings, but took them into consideration. Perhaps that would come with time, and she would have to be patient with Steven.
“There you are, Ashley.” Jane appeared on the grassy bank. “I’m heading into town to get some things. Do you need anything from the store?”
Ashley shook her head and waved a dismissing hand.
“OK, see you in a bit.”
The house was filled with the delicious aroma of Jane’s pot roast as Grace and Henry, her paternal grandparents, arrived at around 6. Being summer, the sun was still quite high in the sky.
Ashley went outside to welcome them as they arrived. Henry was still driving his old 1961 Chevrolet Impala. It was a classic—baby blue paint with white trim, and well maintained, even after all these years.
“Hi, Gran,” she said, strolling down the front steps to give her grandmother a hug. Grace was a tall woman, slender with a kind face and blonde hair which had all but turned an icy shade of gray.
Grace kissed her on the cheek, cradling her face in her hands. “Oh my Darling, look at you. So beautiful.” Her eyes crinkled.
Henry strolled over, and gave Ashley a hug. “How are you sweetheart?”
“I'm well, Grandpa—how are you? Still driving the Chevy.” Ashley said nodding towards the car.
Henry laughed. “I wouldn't drive anything else. Besides, this car is the only reason your grandmother married me!” He shot Grace a wink and she swatted her hand at him.
“Don't be silly,” she said. “There were a few other reasons. Of course, I can't think what they are at this moment.”
It was nice to be around family. They hadn't changed a bit.
“Something smells good,” Henry said as he stepped in through the front door.
“I'm in the kitchen!” Jane's voice rang out.
Grace took Ashley by the arm. “Where's Steven?” she asked. “I thought he was coming.” Ashley’s grandparents hadn't met Steven yet. He’d been away on a business trip when they last visited New York a few years ago.
“No, Gran. He has to go to Japan this week for work. It's a shame, he was looking forward to finally getting to meet you and grandpa.”
Dinner was great. They ate outside in the garden, making the most of the late sunset—Ashley discovered, surprisingly, how much she had missed her mom’s home-cooked meals. The conversation seemed to centre on Ashley’s life in the city—work, Steven, future plans.
“I still can't get over the fact that this is your first visit home in eight years,” Grace said.
Ashley shrugged and smiled, a little embarrassed. “Well life has been so hectic and busy, but I know I should make an effort to visit more often. I do love it here. It's just it brings back some painful memories.” She swallowed hard. “And some good ones too.” She forced a smile and patted her grandmother’s hand.
“Well, we wish you'd visit more often,” Jane said. “It's good to have you home. I don't suppose Steven would consider moving here, would he? What with all the technology these days I'm sure he could run his office here and do business online.”
Ashley couldn't help but laugh at her mother’s suggestion. “Mom, I don't think you realize how hands-on Steven's job is. Besides, if he were interested in moving out of the city—which he isn't—Sweet Home would be the last place he would move to.”
Jane looked offended. “What's wrong with Sweet Home? This town has progressed over the years. We have a Walmart now.”
Ashley laughed and raised her eyebrows. “Yeah, not helping your case.”
Jane nodded. “All right, all right, but promise me you'll try to visit more often than once every eight years.” Jane stood to clear the table.
After dinner they had a simple fruit salad with ice cream for dessert. Despite the fact that the sun was just setting at 8, Ashley was exhausted.
“Are you OK, Ashley?” Gran asked. “You look a bit pale.”
“I believe ‘hung over’ is a more fitting term,” Martin said.
“First night back in town and you're already out partying—I'm shocked.” He
nry gawked at Ashley. “I didn't even get an invite!”
“That's because you're usually asleep by 7:30, dear,” Grace said.
Henry shrugged, not bothering to deny the allegation.
“Yeah, I don't know what I was thinking. I don't seem to recover as quickly as I did a few years ago.” Ashley smiled.
“Well, don't stay up on account of us, Ashley. Go and get some sleep. We'll have plenty of time to chat during the week.” Gran smiled, placing her hand on Ashley’s forearm.
“Thanks, Gran. Mom, can I give you a hand clearing up?” Ashley gestured to the dishes on the table.
“Don't be silly; go to bed.” Jane waved a hand, signalling for her to leave.
“Are you sure? I feel bad.”
“I'm positive. Besides, the dishwasher does most of the hard work.”
“OK, good night.” She kissed them all on their heads and headed to her room. Her eyes were heavy and she felt like she could collapse on the stairs and fall asleep right there and then.