Coming Apart

By Rico Chet

The book opens with Selena Duffy, who is dissatisfied with both her life and her marriage. The resolution to her dissatisfaction is forced and drastic and eventually has its effect on the lives of others.
Georgina’s rebellion against her bullying husband begins a chain of events that takes her through a painful review of her marriage and her childhood. Her husband’s death creates new problems, since the police and her sister are convinced that Georgina murdered him.
The story is a sexually explicit crime novel for adults that concentrates on exploring Georgina’s motivation and confusion as she develops a new perspective on her life.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Rico Chet
• Release date: Oct 20, 2013
• ISBN: 9781301376605

Rico Chet

A solitary man

Book preview

Coming Apart

by

Rico Chet

Published by Rico Chet at Smashwords

Text copyright © 2013 Rico Chet

All Rights Reserved

Coming Apart

Chapters

1: The Beginning

2: All You Need is Love

3: The New Dress

4: Loss and Death

5: Selena

6: A Temporary Refuge

7: Cut and Dried

8: New Friends

9: Returning Home

10: Felix Lightfoot

11: A New Beginning

12: Taking Control

13: The Black Swan

14: Running to Roger

15: A New Life

16: Revenge is Sweet

17: Duffy Cracks the Case

18: All You Need is Love

Chapter 1: The Beginning

Selena lent forward, gripping the tennis racket firmly, balancing on the balls of her feet, intent of winning. She had meant to lose. The tennis club was expensive and very exclusive and she wanted Julie Linton to ask her back again, but the arrogance of the spoilt brat was too infuriating. The supercilious cackling laugh the girl made every time she gained a point had got under her skin.

Before the game the sleek and expensively kitted Julie had made patronising comments about Selena's skirt and polo shirt, followed by a sneer at her mass-produced tennis racket. Julie's daddy was a local magistrate and the owner of a string of car show rooms. Julie had the best of everything. Selena was married to a policeman who had finally made Sergeant. She could not afford the designer labels that Julie flaunted as the true indication of social worth.

They were playing three sets. Selena lost the first by four games to three. According to Julie her stance was wrong, her serve was abysmal and her back hand weak. Selena won the second set four three. It should have been five two but Julie claimed a shot that was well out and suggested Selena should get glasses or give up cheating. The final set was a battle. Julie hated the prospect of losing, especially since a small crowd had gathered outside the clubhouse to watch them play. Selena had been quite good player in her youth, but in her mid thirties she was not as fit as the twenty year old Julie.

Julie was serving for game set and match, as she had loudly informed Selena. The serve was good, but Selena got to it. This was followed by a rally that stretched both players. Selena's back hand won the point. Julie was angry and it affected her game, she served a double fault. Selena's advantage. Julie's next serve was weak and Selena smashed it back for the game.

That was a lucky return, Selena said. It was a good game. She approached the net to shake hands with her red faced opponent, but Julie turned to collect her things. I thought you had it. It was a pity about the double fault. You served so well during the whole match. She was trying to placate. She wanted a return match and the chance to meet some of the other members, but she guessed from Julie's cool disinterest that this would be the last time she'd be invited.

Julie dumped her things on a table and pulled a towel from her bag. Selena gratefully sank onto a seat, allowing her heart beat to return to normal. A tray of drinks arrived.

Compliments of Mr Davidson, the steward said as he put the tray on the table between them. He says he enjoyed the match.

The steward was gone before Selena could ask who Mr Davidson was.

I thought you didn't know you know anyone here, Julie said. She picked up a glass and knocked back the drink. I must be off, I think I'll shower at home.

We must have a return game some time. Selena suggested. I really enjoyed that. It's been a long time since I played anyone as good as you.

Julie nodded and left without replying.

Selena sipped the gin and tonic. She watched the girl's strutting march towards the car park, hips flicking her short skit. She disappeared from view, then the smart red sports car drove past, a rather different image than the six year-old Beetle that Selena drove.

The sun was warm, but the breeze was drying the sweat on Selena's body. She relaxed and enjoyed the clean taste of the cold liquid.

Brought you another. After that match you must need it.

The man was short, but very well groomed and dressed in casual clothes that were obviously expensive. He put another drink on the table. I really enjoyed watching you thrash the darling Julie. He smiled. That was a rather bitchy thing to say, wasn't it! Oh well, he grinned. She takes after her mother and father, they're all frosty faced, humourless, stuck up pratts.

Gerald, what are you up to now? A young blonde woman approached. Gerald grinned.

This is Linda. Linda, this is.. he gestured to Selena and paused.

Selena Duffy.

The woman nodded to her.

Selena just slaughtered Julie Linton.

Ah, I wondered why she hadn't come into the bar to tell everyone what a wonderful game she just had. I suppose she went off in a huff as soon as it was over. Linda giggled and Selena grinned at her. Come on you, I have to be at the hairdressers in five minutes.

They left. Selena sat on the terrace for a little longer, then showered and changed. She loved the clubhouse. It represented all that she wanted in her life. And she could have it too if Jack would take Philip Walsh up on his offer. He could leave the police and become a director of a growing security company. But Jack would not even consider it. He had no drive, no ambition.

When Selena got home she stretched out on the settee. The game had taken a lot out of her. She could feel her muscles stiffening already. After a short rest she went for a long hot bath.

She had only just dressed when Jack arrived home. His bouncy, wide-eyed excitement irritated her. He had never grown up. He was oozing self-satisfaction because he had been asked to join a task force investigating some multi-million pound case of corruption and drugs. He was pleased to be investigating millions when they could not even afford membership of the tennis club. His priorities were rooted in television cops and robbers dramas.

Of course they asked you to join their stupid task force, Selena snapped. You're clever and hard working. That's why Philip Walsh offered you a directorship. Why don't you give him a ring and start working on something for us?

What I'm doing is important, he answered.

But you're not and never will be if you don't get out into the real world. The real world offered more opportunities and more money, but Jack wouldn't listen. As long as he was having fun he was happy. His bouncy mood left him. Now he would sulk for the rest of the day.

You have no interest at all in what I'm doing, do you!

No. Especially since you turned down a far better job to keep on doing it.

Better job? I'd be a glorified salesman. And I wouldn't trust Philip Walsh with the security of a kid's piggy bank.

You'd rather be a fat, sleazy, peeping tom.

He wished he'd never told her about his surveillance work. Ever since he'd described the cameras and all night stake outs she'd labelled him a peeping tom. But this time her barbed tongue failed to prick his bubble. He was feeling too good.

Not fair. Time to change the subject. He grinned and struck a pose. This isn't fat, it's well tuned muscle. Mainly it was, though it was slipping a bit. But it needs to be maintained. What's for dinner?

Whatever you want to cook. She felt a little guilty about not having sorted out a meal, but was ready to battle with him over her right to not be his servant.

Then let's go out for a really nice meal. How about it? I'll be working overtime for the next few months, so let's spend it while we have some time.

Her bad mood was swept aside. She even laughed when he stuck his head round the bedroom door while she changing and announced himself as the resident peeping tom.

They went to a new French restaurant, one of a chain that was spreading though England. When they arrived Gerald Davidson and Linda were standing at the bar.

Are you following me? Gerald asked.

Selena laughed. Gerald stuck his hand out to Jack. Gerald Davidson, he said. I had the pleasure of watching your wife slaughter Julie Linton at the tennis club today. It was wonderful. It made this a very special day for me.

Jack Duffy, Jack replied.

I presume this lovely lady is your wife and I haven't interrupted some secret assignation.

Gerald. Linda said.

Sorry. This is Linda, my paramour. She was too idle to cook this evening so we are here.

Jack looked at Selena and grinned. There's a coincidence, he said. My wife didn't get round to cooking either. Now I understand why. I forgot about your game of tennis with Julie Linton. But I'm glad you beat her.

Gerald laughed. I can see we are going to get along. Allow me to buy you a drink. They do some lovely cocktails in here. Linda's just had a Between the Sheets, but that's her preferred option anyway. Linda dug him in the ribs. He laughed. Selena, if I may call you Selena, what would you like? I see you as a martini drinker, stirred, but not shaken. He grinned.

That sounds fine by me, she said. She wanted to accept before Jack could refuse. He wasn't generally very sociable.

One martini, Gerald said to the waiting barmaid. And for you, Jack?

Just a beer, thanks.

Have something a bit more exciting, Jack, Selena said. We're celebrating.

What's the occasion? Linda asked.

Jack's just been asked to join a special task force digging the dirt on corruption and drugs, Selena said.

Selena, Jack said quietly.

Sorry, I didn't realise it was hush hush.

You should have a martini too, Linda said. I've never met a real live James Bond before.

Do have a martini, and don't worry, we won't ask you about this task force thing. I just want to tell you about the tennis match. Gerald pointed theatrically at Selena. She was magnificent. I shall give you a ball by ball commentary on the whole event. Will you join us for dinner? As my guests, of course. Linda is wonderful but when we're on our own her conversation dulls the taste of the food and I owe you a dinner for having a wife who slaughtered Julie Linton with the whole tennis club watching.

He made a fist and punched the air. Yes! he hissed. Result.

You might have guessed that Gerald doesn't like Julie very much, Linda whispered. She lent closer to Jack and patted his arm. Neither do I. But if you eat with us I won't have to put up with his stupid jokes.

Jack laughed and nodded his agreement.

The food was good, the alcohol flowed freely and Gerald's witty conversation kept Selena laughing. Afterwards Gerald insisted on dropping them home.

I've really enjoyed this evening, Gerald said as the taxi stopped outside the Duffy's house. We must do it again. When are you at the tennis club next, Selena?

I'm not a member, so it depends when I'm invited.

Easily remedied, Linda's there tomorrow and would love a game, she really needs the practice. What time are you going Linda?

About eleven. Will I meet you there?

Thanks, that's a lovely idea. Selena was pleased. She had a way into the club and had beaten Julie Linton. Things were going well.

Jack was relaxed and feeling amorous, Linda had been stroking his ego most of the evening and now he wanted Selena to stroke other parts. She was in a good mood and didn't reject his advances, even though she preferred morning sex because she could have a shower immediately after.

Next morning Linda behaved like an air head. Her enjoyment of tennis seemed to be limited to wearing a short skirt and tight top to show off her tanned legs and prominent nipples. They had a gentle knock around and then went to the bar.

Julie Linton was there with a group of friends. She nodded recognition but then turned away. Linda giggled. There's no one here, she told Selena. How about a swim? Gerald might be bringing some people back but they won't be there yet.

I haven't got a costume with me.

Linda laughed. No need to worry about that.

Selena enjoyed sitting in the Porsche, though she wasn't impressed with Linda's driving. The house was magnificent; large, modern and expensively furnished. The pool was in a spacious conservatory at the back of the house. The house wall was lined with mirrors, making the conservatory seem even more enormous. The sides and end were clear glass showing a large secluded garden.

First a snifter. Linda poured them drinks from a prepared jug. Morning cocktails. Light and uplifting.

It tasted light and fruity. Their knock about had worked up a bit of a thirst so Selena emptied her glass quickly. Linda refilled it.

And now the swim. The water's always lovely and warm. She peeled off the tight tee shirt. This is the best thing about this pool. I never need a costume.

Selena tried to hide her surprise. The skirt slithered to the floor, the tight white pants were pushed off, and then Linda was in the water.

Oh, it's gorgeous. Come on in, Selena.

I'm fine at the moment, she raised her glass to show she was enjoying the drink.

Pour yourself another when you're ready, Linda said, and she began swimming lazy lengths of the pool.

Selena finished her drink and poured another. She didn't feel ready to strip off for a swim, but was a bit envious of Linda's careless attitude. She sat on a sun-lounger and watched Linda swim by, then climb out of the pool and walk towards her. The tan was even all over. Her breasts were full and firm, defying gravity. Her legs were long and slender with a neatly trimmed blonde triangle nestled at the base of her flat stomach.

I like to keep in shape, Linda said.

Selena blushed, realising she had been staring.

You really should have a dip, it's lovely. Her hands stroked down her breasts to her belly, flicking off the water. I love swimming naked, it feels so free. I need my sun now. Would you mind doing my back?

The corner of the conservatory had panels that shone with a yellow light when Linda flicked a switch.

This is new. It's supposed to be gentle for the skin so it doesn't cause cancer but gives a tan. I love it. She lay on the bench. You have to use the cream though or you get dried out and wrinkled. It's on the shelf. You don't mind do you?

Of course not. Selena put down her glass and went to the shelf for the bottle of sun cream.

You're wet, she said.

Linda gave her an arch look. I get a kick out of being an exhibitionist. She giggled and then added, There are towels on the rail.

Selena picked up a towel and rubbed Linda's back and legs dry, then dribbled the cream between her shoulders and smoothed it evenly over the firm warm skin.

Don't miss my bum, it looks even bigger when it goes red.

Selena's hands spread the cream over the fleshy mounds, then down the long legs.

Thanks. This is heaven. I only want five minutes. Could you pass me my drink?

As Selena fetched the drink she noticed her legs felt a bit rubbery. The seemingly innocuous drink had more alcohol in than she first thought. Linda raised herself a little and sipped.

It's nice having someone to talk to. This house is great but Gerald's often out and I don't like many of the people round here. They're so stuffy. I liked your Jack. Why is he so excited about this new job thing.

I don't know. I think it's because he was asked to transfer to this special task force. He'll be chasing after big criminals instead of teenage burglars.

Linda's questions about Jack's job led to how they met and married and Selena's hope that he would leave the police and work with a security firm.

It sounds like a good job Linda agreed. Could you rub just between my shoulders. I think I pulled something when we were playing tennis. She flexed her back muscles as Selena massaged the area. Ooh, that's it, that's lovely. She put down her glass and lay flat. Just a little more, up a bit. You have magic hands. That's really nice. You could make a living doing massage. That's perfect. Time for me to stop. She rolled off the bench. Come on, come for a swim with me. You're not too shy about skinny dipping are you?

No, I ...

Good. Arms up. Linda took hold of Selena's sweatshirt and pulled it up. Selena raised her arms. The nicest thing about it is the feeling on your boobs. The way the water supports them, but they're not restricted. She dropped the sweatshirt on the floor and moved behind Selena to unsnap her bra. And the feeling of the water moving between your legs. She undid the button at the side of Selena's skirt and slid down the zip while Selena removed her bra. All off, her fingers slid into the waistband of the skirt and pulled down skirt and knickers in one movement. Let's swim. She took Selena's hand and ran to the pool.

They jumped in together. The water was perfect. Selena rolled and turned and twisted in the enveloping warmth. They swam and splashed, then raced a few lengths and climbed out.

Time for another drink. Linda threw Selena a towel and went for the glasses and the nearly empty jug. "Dry yourself off and you can have five minutes in the sun.

Selena towelled herself dry. Linda gave her a glass. Knock it back and get under the lamps.

She emptied the glass and lay on the bench. She wasn't surprised when she felt the cream trickling onto her back. She enjoyed the gentle pressure of Linda's hands smoothing it in. She felt pampered and relaxed, dreamy.

Turn over.

She became more aware of what was happening when Linda's hands massaged her breasts and belly, but her dreamy feeling stayed even when the gentle hands moved to her legs and then between her thighs. And her nipples, and her thighs and.. And she was aware she was aroused. She forced herself out of her reverie.

Linda stopped touching her and grinned. You're quite shy, aren't you.

I'm not used to... She didn't know what to say.

I like enjoying nice things, Linda said. Life's fun. You've had enough time in the sun. Come here. She took Selena's hand and helped her off the bench. She led her round the pool to the mirrored wall. We look good together. I hope you're going to come and visit me often.

Selena felt light headed. She stared at the mirror as Linda's hand cupped her breast. Your nipples went lovely and hard when I massaged you. So did mine. Have a feel. She took Selena's hand and put it on her breast. I got you all excited, didn't I. And she lent forward and kissed her.

Selena felt giddy. The kiss, the hands, she felt her knees give way found she was lying on the floor. Linda's hands were touching her. Her lips and tongue exploring her and Selena couldn't stop them. She felt strange. She heard herself groan when the fingers stopped. I think you need a proper lie down. That morning pick-me-up takes a bit of getting used to. Linda helped her to her feet. Come on then.

She was guided into the living room, her legs barely supporting her body. Linda eased her onto the sofa.

I feel strange. She noticed that her words were slurred.

Of course you do. Too much to drink. Here, Linda had a glass of cloudy white liquid in her hand. Drink this it will clear your head. She held it to Selena's lips. Selena drank. Gerald will be here in a minute. We'll give him a nice afternoon, eh?

Selena felt confused and helpless. Linda knelt by her and stroked her breast. I think he's going to be pleased with me. He said he wanted you relaxed, and you can't get much more relaxed than this. When the lift kicks in, don't try to fight it. It's more fun to go with the flow.

Have you drugged me? Selena slurred.

I offered, you took it. Don't worry, we'll just have some fun and games. You enjoyed the game by the pool. Her hand slid down Selena's belly to between her parted legs. You're still wet. Listen, that's Gerald now.

After that it was a blur. Her confusion grew. She was aware of bright lights and hands and moaning. Then silence.

When she woke she was on the settee, but dressed in her tennis things again and feeling very tired. Linda drove her home. It was half past three in the afternoon but she went to bed and slept till seven.

She found a message on the answer phone when she went downstairs. Jack would be late. Her mouth was dry. She drank a glass of water and curled up on the sofa. She woke again at ten and had another drink. She felt as though she was sleepwalking. She went to bed.

In the morning she was still feeling thick headed and rather unsure about what had happened the day before. Jack had to be in early, he took her a cup of tea in bed before he left. She finally got out of bed at ten thirty. Then Linda arrived, dressed for tennis.

That was wild yesterday. You were so pissed. Have you a hangover?

Not really, I feel a bit ...

I know what you mean. Come on, we both need a good work out.

Selena changed and they went to the club. They knocked a ball around and then went in for a drink. Selena had an orange juice.

I know why you're on that, Linda remarked with a grin. You had so much yesterday. You were so pissed you were babbling about being drugged.

Selena remembered something, she wasn't quite sure what.

Oh, I have a present for you. Linda gave her an envelope. It was a membership card, paid up for a year. Selena stared. It's from Gerald. I told him how much you wanted to be a member. He says you deserve it for beating Julie Linton.

But ...

He's on the board and owns most of the shares. This costs him nothing. Do you fancy a swim?

I don't think so.

Julie laughed. No morning cocktails, I promise.

Selena found it easier to undress and follow Julie into the pool. She enjoyed the water and the time in the sun after. Julie oiled her back, but had gone to the kitchen when it was time to turn. Selena wasn't sure if she was relieved or disappointed.

When Linda came back she had a tray of sandwiches. They ate and chatted about clothes. I've got a tennis dress that would fit you. I'm too big for it now, since I had these done. Come and try it on."

It fitted and Selena wore it home.

For the next few days they played tennis each morning, then went back for a swim and a tan. The nightmare confusion about what had happened the first time gradually faded as the all over tan deepened. Linda gave her other clothes that no longer fitted her improved chest. Top quality clothing, the like of which she would never have been able to afford from Jack's pay.

Then they arrived back and the cocktail jug was full. Linda grinned. Cocktails day. But you go gently. We don't want you pissed again.

She did go gently, but the tennis had made her thirsty and the drink tasted so innocuous that it slipped down easily after the swim.

Sun time, me first.

Selena oiled Linda's back. Do my front too. I'm feeling so lazy but I don't want to dry up.

Selena coated her front with the cream. She did it quickly and completely, but without lingering on any part.

Your turn. Linda got off the bench. You're going a lovely colour.

Linda's hands worked her back and legs till Selena felt like purring. When she turned the hands continued their magic on her breasts and thighs. And then they were kissing. She broke away abruptly.

What's wrong? Linda was laughing. Don't tell me you're not enjoying it, because I can tell you are.

I'm not a ... Her head was swimming. She couldn't think of the word.

You're not a lesbian? Of course not. But there is definitely a bit of bi in both of us. I've an idea. This is Gerald's favourite trick. Put your arms up. She moved Selena's arms above her head. Selena felt something on her wrists. She tried to pull her arms down.

Relax, you'll love this.

Her ankle was trapped, then the other. You look lovely. Now this. A blindfold was put over her eyes. Now you can't stop me so you have to relax and enjoy.

And Selena couldn't stop her. Linda's fingers worked on her breasts till her nipples were aching, then between her thighs till her hips were writhing. Then something was whirring and pushing inside her. When it stopped hands were on her breast again, then a body on hers and ... She couldn't stop it. She wanted to but she couldn't.

When Linda untied her Gerald was standing by the edge of the pool with a drink in his hand. Selena stared at him. She didn't know what to say.

I can't stay, he said. Linda needs to ask you something. Be as helpful as you can.

He smiled and left.

What's going on? Selena asked.

Oh, he just wants to know how your husband's investigation is going.

I don't know. She was feeling frightened.

Well Gerald wants you to find out. Can you do that for him?

You tied me down so he could...

Well you enjoyed it last time.

Selena's confused fears were confirmed. Last time?

Well, last time you weren't tied down. But you enjoyed it. You haven't seen the photographs yet, have you? I'll get them.

Selena sat, mentally and physically frozen to the bench. Linda returned with a wallet of photographs. They're very good. The video's even better.

Selena felt sick as she looked through the pictures. What do you want? she asked coldly.

Me? Nothing. I hope we'll keep on being friends. My tennis is getting better and it's not as boring as being here all day on my own. Gerald just wants to know everything you can find out about the investigation. Some of his friends might be involved.

And the photographs?

Oh, they're all right. We keep them in the safe. And no one will get to see them. Gerald says that if you find out something useful he'll give them to you to destroy.

You're trying to blackmail me.

No, not really. Gerald's been good to you. The clothes, the tennis club membership. He's not asking you to do anything dreadful.

Just betray my husband, Selena said.

Linda laughed. You don't even like your husband. You think he's a boring shit and he'll never get you the things you need. You're a friend of ours now. So you'll get the benefits. Of course you'll have to be ever so attentive and loving to your husband while he's with this task force. Stop looking so upset. Come on, we're friends. Come and have a swim. It was Gerald who upset you, wasn't it. If you don't want him to screw you he won't, I promise. Come on, into the water and wash him all out of you.

She took Selena's hand and pulled her to the pool. They swam without talking.

After the swim Selena dried and dressed.

We are still friends aren't we? Linda asked. You will play tennis tomorrow. We could go somewhere for lunch if you like. I'll pay."

Selena didn't answer.

After an afternoon of tears she pulled herself together and tried to think. They hadn't said they would use the photographs, but they would if she didn't do as they wanted. She had to get them and destroy them. To do that she would have to be friendly with Linda. And in the mean time, she would have to be friendly with Jack. They wanted information and she would have to provide it.

Jack was delighted by the change in his wife's behaviour. It was like their honeymoon days all over again, but better. She listened to him, snuggled up against him and seemed genuinely interested in all he had to say. As the weeks wore on she became as excited about the case he was working on as he was. She was a clever woman and even suggested some avenues to explore that the team hadn't thought of, which made him look good to his superiors and kept him in the centre of the investigation.

Gerald seemed very grateful for the information. He even told her some things to suggest to Jack. When she said she couldn't understand why he was helping the police he laughed. Some of those who are being investigated are competition and I do think the police should succeed in clearing the streets of my rivals.

Most of her information he listened to casually. When she told him of planned dawn raids he became agitated.

Jack was rather disappointed when he come home the evening after the raids. They had made quite a haul in some places, but came away empty handed in others. There was talk of an informer in the task force.

The next day Selena suggested that she be given the photographs and tape, since she'd earned them. She got a polite but definite refusal.

Linda relaxed as time went on. She enjoyed Selena's company. They played tennis together almost every day. They swam and sun bathed. Sometimes the massage became more intimate and it was often Selena who took the lead.

In time Selena asked to see the tape. She was shocked at how graphic it was. Sometimes she would ask to see the photographs again. And finally she caught a glimpse of Linda opening a book to check the combination of the safe. A few days later she had the number. By then she knew about the alarms and the cameras. It took another fortnight to get the alarm code but then something happened that she was able to turn to her advantage.

The first time she saw Felix Lightfoot he was climbing out of her living room window.