Ria

By D.M. Roberts

"Previously published as [County Girls Chronicles - Cornwall] by [D M Roberts]."
What do you do when your life is turned upside down? You can choose to hide away from the world, hiding away ensures that you cannot possibly be hurt again surely. A woman with a successful business under her belt, confidence and beauty decides to do just that. Ria Odann takes up the kind offer of her London friends to get away from it all after a failed marriage. The village is a quaint, seaside resort in Cornwall. A simple invitation leads to a harrowing and brutal experience that will rock the village for a long time to come. Do you become a victim to your past or do you stand up and take your life back? A tale of how love, friends love, the love between a man & woman, even the love of an unexpected variety can conquer even your darkest days and nights.

• Language: English
• Publisher: D.M. Roberts
• Release date: Nov 3, 2021
• ISBN: 9780463087435

Book preview

RIA

Copyright 2021 D M Roberts

Published by D M Roberts

License Notes

This book is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This book may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your enjoyment only, then please return to Smashwords.com or your favorite retailer and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

Foreword

There are many people in the world that have suffered at the hands of others. Telling them to simply ‘Get over it’ is a lot easier than it sounds. Trauma of any kind sits in the mind of a victim, waiting to pounce without warning. For those that cannot put these demons to rest, I sympathise greatly, for it is no easy task. There are many that choose to stand up against what their minds are screaming, they don’t ever ‘get over it’, they make a stand and take back their life. Life is a precious thing, own your life. After all, you only get one.

Acknowledgements

For all the people in my life that have been there for me, I am truly grateful.

Table of Contents

1. Cornwall

2. Getting to know you…

3. Setting things straight.

4. Solitary moments

5. A World of his own.

6. The unravelling of the past.

7. A Nanny’s Love.

8. Testing the water.

9. Day dreaming.

10. Trust.

11. Starting afresh.

12. Where do you go with that?

13. Taking charge.

14. Serendipity.

1.

Cornwall

Ria sat back lazily in her sun lounger. She peered out over the calm sea, people milling back and forth in the relaxed way that they do on days like today. She watched the young couple that held hands, strolling along the sandy beach without a care in the world. A pang of envy seared through her well-defined body. A year ago, that could have been her, not now. Not since her discovery of the worst betrayal. Shaking the thought from her mind she picked up her glass from the table, she took a large gulp from the refreshing gin and tonic. It’s true to say that it wasn’t yet afternoon, what the hell, it was somewhere right?

The sound of children laughing in the distance made her smile. She had never gotten the chance to be a mother herself, it was never the right time, they had busy careers, they would interfere with their social life. He had thrown every excuse in the book at her, until she finally gave up raising the subject. It was hard of course, each time a set of their friends announced the news of an expected arrival she would bite her lip, smile, and throw herself further in to her work. It got to the point somewhere along the way that time finally drew a line under the topic. Ria topped up her drink, the ice cubes splashing down into the glass with a plunking sound. She had been in Cornwall for almost 2 months now.

Friends from London had let her use the beachside house as a bolt hole.

For as long as you need it. They had said. She knew they had exhausted their efforts of cheering her up over the past year and frankly she had grown weary of them trying. She accepted the offer without hesitation. A break from the norm was needed. Her business partner on the other hand, had not been impressed with Ria’s decision to take a sabbatical, claiming that all the work would fall to him. Ria arranged a stand-in to take up the flack. Nigel was every inch the businessman, there wasn’t anything about their advertising business that he didn’t know, and she had every confidence the business she and her partner had built up over 24 years would be in safe hands.

As Ria contemplated what had brought her here, she was interrupted by the chimes of the doorbell. She certainly wasn’t expecting any visitors that was for sure. Clad still in a bikini she opened the door, the youngish man that stood there tried to hide his surprise at the woman’s attire.

Um, hello. I was expecting Jill or Barry. I’m sorry, have they sold up? Ria shook her head. No, I’m holiday house sitting for want of a better phrase. Can I help you? I’m Ria, a friend of theirs from London. The young man was taking in the splendour of Ria’s extremely attractive frame.

Ah, well, you see. We are having a small get together this Saturday evening, I called to see if Jill and Barry were up for it. I’d noticed the lights last night so thought they were here. Ria looked bemused at the young man, why was he staring at her in that way?

Sorry, can’t help you there. It would have been me that had the lights on. Do you want me to mention that you called when I speak to them?

Hardly worth bothering them. It was just a thought, they usually come over when they’re here. I don’t suppose you would like to join us. It’s a nice bunch of people, very friendly and informal. Ria shrugged; she had locked herself away in her time here.

Have a think about it. No pressure. Laughed the young man. He handed her a card.

This is the address, I’m Tim. If you decide to come, just turn up around 8. As he walked off up the path he turned.

Nice outfit. Ria’s puzzled face stared back at him. She closed the door. Making her way back to her lounger she caught sight of herself in the long mirror.

Oh bollocks. She laughed.

Saturday arrived all too quickly and Ria had decided that she would pass on the invitation, after all, she didn’t know these people and it would feel odd to just turn up at a stranger’s house. Instead, she settled for a night at the cinema. Often, she had gone to the cinema alone, it had never bothered her, the looks she had gotten. A paying customer like everyone else. Getting ready, Ria looked at herself in the long mirror that hung on the back of the bathroom door. She had done well to reach the age she was and still retain her figure. Her long blonde hair cascaded down her back. Many times, her husband had complained that it got in his face whilst they slept, many times she had been tempted to cut it off to curb his persistent comments and then he moved into the spare room, so it was no longer an issue.

You are not a teenager; you should have a more respectable hairdo to suit your age. She would bite back the urge to reply to these remarks. There was a time he had loved her hair, that said, he had loved everything about her. Couldn’t get enough of her in fact. Those days had long gone, not long after they married to be precise.

She stroked her soft skin, it had been a long time since she had felt the touch of a warm hand caressing her, she missed that. Toys could only do so much for a person, they couldn’t replace the feel of skin on skin. Neither could they curl up on a cold winter night with you, arms wrapped around you, tell you they love you. No, they were not a substitute for the real thing. They could, however, release that tension when the need arose. Stepping into the shower the hot water pummeled her body, the jet stream stabbed pleasantly over her back, turning around she felt the water hit her nipples. She felt the pang of instant arousal as it pelted her swelling pink nubs, repeatedly. Lathering up the shower gel in her hands she began to rub the tropical smelling gel into her breasts. A gasp escaping from her mouth as she did so. Continuing to wash herself her hands circling over her flat stomach and down toward her thighs. Her fingers quickly finding that pulsating spot.

Ah, that’s right. She moaned aloud. She rinsed the suds off and quickly washed her hair.

Ria was five minutes away from the cinema when she heard him call out.

Hey, hello. You’re going the wrong way. Ignoring the voice, not realising it was aimed at her she continued to walk. She could hear footsteps quickening behind her, should she run? Hey, I didn’t catch your name the other day. She turned to see the young man Tim behind her. I’m sorry, were you calling to me? He laughed out loud.

Of course, I was. You do know the house is that way, don’t you? I was sent to fetch you, more persuade you really. It would be nice to have a new face at our gathering. You are coming to the party, aren’t you? Ria had been rumbled.

I was going to the cinema to be honest. Didn’t feel right just turning up there on my own. You wouldn’t know, I’m separated so it will be just me. Tim smiled.

Happens to the best of us love, but we move on. She nodded.

Still, I wouldn’t want to impose. It was very nice of you to ask.

Think nothing of it. I can tell you from experience, there’s nothing that good on at the flicks. I’ll be your escort if that helps? He had an odd way of making Ria feel at ease. Gawky looking, attractive in a strange sort of way.

So, you’ll come? Ria laughed thinking back to the earlier shower.

Is that a, yes?

Yes, I’ll come.

Okay, first things first. We need to do a U-turn then we’re set. Catching her elbow, he turned Ria to face the opposite direction.

That’s better. Let’s go.

The house was a magnificent one, the word house is used lightly here as it was more like a mansion. The drive itself looked a mile long, the surrounding gardens landscaped to within an inch of their life. Tim buzzed the intercom at the grand iron gates.

Hello. Came the reply.

I’m back and I have brought company. The huge gates swung open revealing the full extent of the premises. Ria gasped; she had been to some homes in her time, but nothing compared to this.

Wow!

Something isn’t it. Said Tim as he strode up the drive.

It’s amazing, I must have passed here a dozen times but never noticed it from the road.

Ah, they like it like that. The trees hide it nicely. It took a while to reach the main house, the walk was pleasant, and Ria took in the sights with relish. Tim chatted about his work as an I.T specialist, telling Ria how he too had worked in London for many years. He went on to say that he had finally moved to this part of the country for the peace and quiet.

It’s so much easier to work from home these days don’t you think? Ria nodded.

I often end up working from home, whether I want to or not. Tim looked at the woman, the evening sun bounced between the golden curls in her flowing hair.

What is it you do? If you don’t mind me asking.

I run an advertising company. I started in my early 20’s with my partner. Business partner I should add.

Not a bad profession to be in. I imagine it’s pretty full on? Again, she nodded.

One of the reasons I decided to take a break. Not to bore you with small details, I hired someone in to fill in for me until I decide where I’m going with my life. He smiled, his goofy smile spreading from ear to ear.

Well, first place you’re going is in here with this colourful lot. Nodding toward the door as a bright ginger haired woman appeared.

Ah you made it. Excellent. Hello, please, come in. I’m Freya. So lovely to have you join us. Come, I’ll introduce you. Tim be a darling and get our guest a drink. You do drink? Sorry, I don’t know your name! Ria held her hand out.

I’m Ria, thank you for the invite. Yes please, G and T would be lovely. Freya waved her hand.

So formal my dear. She pulled a shocked Ria into what felt like a bear hug. It felt good, not being an overly touchy-feely person, she was surprised at how warm and welcoming it made her feel.

Okay Freya, don’t hog the guests. Laughed Tim. The ginger haired woman smiled a sarcastic smile at Tim.

He’s jealous I got to hug your delightful frame before he did. She winked at Tim as he made off to fetch Ria’s drink.

Now, come this way Ria, we’re not a huge group but I think you’ll find we’re a friendly, relaxed bunch.

They entered the large room; it was lavishly decorated in golds and reds. The tall ceiling and pale cream walls gave enough balance so as not to make it too gaudy.

You have a beautiful home. Whispered Ria. Freya laughed and shook her head.

Everyone, this is Ria, please be nice and show her a good old Cornish welcome. Don’t shatter her elusions of thinking this marvellous dwelling belongs to me. The group exploded into fits of laughter. Ria was confused and it clearly showed on her face.

Didn’t he tell you? asked Freya.

Tell me what?

Tim, the house belongs to our computer whizz kid. Ah, now it made sense. The group consisted of a few couples and around 5 people that seemed to be on their own. In turn they each introduced themselves, like Freya, they were huggers rather than hand shakers.

I hope you’re not scaring off our substitute. Came the now noticeable voice of Tim, handing Ria a large glass.

Thank you. You kept quiet the fact that the house is yours. Me prattling on all the way down the drive too. Tim clinked his glass against hers.

Man of mystery you see, ask anyone.

Ria spent a good while chatting to various people at the small party. Most of them had originated from the area, gone away to work in various large Cities then returned. There was a couple that came from Scotland and a man that came from Birmingham. Ria liked them; they were very down to earth people. One lady, like her, from London seemed extremely nice. They talked about their various haunts in the big smoke, the difference in people. Both agreeing that big city people were more into networking than friend making, which made for quite a lonely existence at times. Ria didn’t give too much away about her recent separation; she was tired of thinking or talking about it. Coming to the decision to forget about it for the time being and simply enjoy the evening. Linda went on to explain that she had worked in the fashion industry all her adult life, when she lifted her head up, she was 50.

Time passes you by without you noticing it. Too late for me to meet Mr Right I think, certainly too late to start a family that’s for certain. Ria could quite understand this, she felt sad for the woman.

Still, if I had a family, kids etc. I would never have gotten to meet this lot, nor would I have acquired the wealth I have. Ria knew these were small consolations in the bigger picture but smiled and agreed with the woman regardless.

You know, it’s never too late. You are an attractive woman, you have, from what I can see, a great personality. The right person will come along. Linda laughed and took a mouthful of her drink.

To be honest Ria, if they don’t it’s not such a bad thing, there are other ways to make oneself happy. Freya walked to where the two women were standing.

I’m going to have to whisk Ria away for a mo. if you don’t mind Linda. Tour of the house is in order I think. Linda lifted her glass.

Absolutely, I’m going for a refill.

Once clear of the group Freya asked

So, what did you make of our little group?

I thought they were a great bunch, all quite different characters but they knit well together. Yes, all with their own stories to tell, as you will find out, nice friendly bunch though I think. You seemed to hit it off with Linda, lonely woman before we invited her into our circle, I think. Sense of humour like you wouldn’t believe.

I got that impression too; done well for herself she tells me.

She has indeed, as have most here. All except poor Roger and Leah, they have a habit of backing the wrong horses but, they bounce back soon enough. The pair ascended the majestic staircase.

Not starting without us? called Linda, on her way back from refilling her drink.

Wouldn’t dream of it my dear. replied Freya. Ria was far too busy marvelling at the vast, elegant stairway to pay any attention to the comments passed between the two women.

I must warn you these rooms go on forever so feel free to say when you’ve had enough. I’ve been in some amazing places in my time, but this really does take the cherry.

Tim has worked wonders, hard to believe this house was set for demolition when he came across it. He calls it his baby; it’s taken him over 10 years to get it to this glorious state. With the help of me, of course.

In what way?

It’s a funny relationship, I tell you before the gossips do. Tim was married to my sister; she did a real number on him. He never speaks about it. We lost touch for a while after they split, as you do, long story short, he contacted my company about the interior design aspect of the house. I turned up for the meeting and there he was. When you use company names you don’t realise who you’re dealing with until you meet on site for the first time. Imagine our surprise! Now, we had always gotten on, but etiquette dictates that you sever relationships after such things. Business is business however, we took on the contract, much to my sister’s annoyance and have been fast friends ever since. He’s like the brother I never had and I’m so glad he’s part of my life. I know you’re dying to ask, as most people are, and the answer is no, purely platonic. Ria gulped.

Oh, I wouldn’t have. It’s really not my business.

I find it better to get these things out of the way. Tim agrees, he often calls me his cock block. Ria couldn’t help laughing at the frankness of Freya, it was refreshing in a world where people were so P.C.

This you have to see and then we’ll get back to the other’s.

Pushing open the large double doors, Freya stepped back.

Tat-dah. What do you think? It was stunning. A bathroom as big as the house Ria was staying in. Marble tiles from floor to ceiling, porcelain basins and an enormous roll top bath taking centre stage, the light from the enormous window bathing the room in sunset reds and oranges. In the far corner a round shower cubicle encased in clear glass with the shower drench hanging above from the ceiling.

I’m staggered. It’s so beautiful in here. You designed this? Freya beamed proudly.

I did. All my own work. It’s my most favourite room in the whole house.

I can see why. I love it, what’s not to love. The colours are incredible.

I must admit, when I first showed the design to Tim, he wasn’t sold on the idea. Now, he loves it.

You’ve done a fantastic job. It’s a dream of a room.

Thank you. Now, shall we head back downstairs?

After you. The two women joined the rest of the group, who were now ensconced in a game of slightly tipsy charades.

Here, Ria, you can be on our team. called Roger.

Well, I have to say, I’m hurt Roger. laughed Freya.

Poppet, you know we love you, not your best subject charades, is it? Leah poked his arm. Don’t be mean Roger, Freya is good at other things. Everyone laughed at the light-hearted banter between the two.

You are stuck on our side I’m afraid. Put in Tim.

Oh, if I must. Freya joined the team, sitting in between the group with her glass of wine in hand.

Don’t get comfortable, you’re up next.

Do I have to? I can’t help feel I’m being set up. Taking the card from the deck Freya began to act out her movie title, badly. The crowd was in uproar as she frantically tried, over and over. Put her out of her misery Ria. Laughed Linda.

Is it, 6 underground?

Yes! Finally. I’m not as bad as I thought. You clever thing.

I still don’t know why you did sounds like, sex, for six when you could have put up six fingers. Roared Leah in fits of laughter.

Oh, feck you’re right. It’s the simple things that elude me.

Although I did like your sex mime. Added Roger. They played a few more rounds, Ria was beginning to feel that she had drank too much but, she was having a wonderful time. The best time she’d had in a long while. A man came to the door of the room.

Tim, food’s ready when you are.

Right, you lot, time for a bite to soak up all that alcohol. Thanks Graeme.

When they entered the garden room on the back terrace, Ria was surprised to see the man Graeme take a seat, she assumed he was hired help.

"Ah Ria, you haven’t met my husband