“I imagine he knew what he wanted. Silver is easy to sell.”
“Has it come out in the papers?”
“Haven’t read them yet. I have my mole in the police force.”
“Same one as Jake’s mole, I suspect. He doesn’t waste any time in telling everyone, does he? Probably tells the local paper, too.”
“I think he enjoys being in the know.”
“And showing off to anyone who’ll listen. No wonder they can’t catch him, they’re too busy gossiping.”
“So, how’s the artist settling in?”
Marina’s face lit up at the mention of Rafa. “He’s charming. A positive, happy presence to have around the hotel, just like you.” Harvey grinned over his teacup. “He’s nice to everyone, you know. Jennifer and Rose are on cloud nine because he takes trouble with them and everyone seems happier. It’s as if he has sprinkled fairy dust over the place. I sense he’s going to make a real difference here.”
“I’m sure you’re right.”
“I don’t think Jake likes him, though.”
“Really?”
“The green-eyed monster.”
“Ah,” said Harvey, knowingly.
“Sometimes Jake’s very immature. But Clemmie thinks Rafa is wonderful.”
“That’s good.”
“The trouble is, she’s rather obvious about it.”
“He probably doesn’t notice. Men notice less than you think.”
“I don’t know. But he’s a grown-up. I’m sure he’ll take it in his stride.” She looked uneasy.
“You don’t want her to get hurt.”
“She’s never really been in love before. She’s had boyfriends.” Marina pulled a face. “Lots of boyfriends. But she’s never loved.”
“You think she’s going to fall in love with Rafa?”
“Almost certainly. I fear she’s going to get hurt.”
“It might be a perfect match.”
“I don’t think so. He lives on the other side of the world, and he’s almost too handsome for his own good. He must be used to girls falling in love with him.” She lowered her eyes and frowned. “I don’t trust beautiful men when it comes to love.”
“But you like Rafa.”
“Yes, I like him very much. I’m just being silly.”
“No, you’re not. You’re being a good stepmother.” She looked at him, now smiling at her with such affection, and felt her throat tighten for no reason at all.
“Thank you, Harvey. You know I only want what’s best for her.”
“I know you do.”
The front door opened, bringing in a gust of wind and Bertha. “Goodness me, it’s blustery this morning.”
“Time to go over to the hotel,” said Marina to Harvey as Bertha made her way across the hall towards the kitchen. They both drained their cups. A cloud of Anaï Anaï wafted in on the draft, then Bertha filled the doorway, her large body squeezed into a yellow floral tent dress. Marina put down her coffee cup and stared in horror, while Harvey was unable to take his eyes off her. The yellow fabric fell straight from the neck edge to her ankles, which stuck out of the hem like two uncooked sausages. Her feet were squeezed into gold pumps. Marina blinked at her, lost for words.
“Don’t say you don’t like it,” said Bertha, unfazed. “I’ve spent all morning trying to zip it up.”
“You look very bright,” said Harvey. He stood up and replaced his cap. “I need my sunglasses to look at you.”
“I felt positive this morning.”
“That’s good,” said Harvey. “Perhaps you’ll put some of that positivity into your work.”
“You know me, forever the perfectionist.” She dropped her handbag onto one of the kitchen chairs. “I think I’ll make myself a cuppa.” Harvey caught Marina’s eye and raised an eyebrow. “Anything special you need me to do today?” She directed her question at Marina.
“Um, no. I mean, no, nothing special.”
“Who’s going to clean the artist’s room, then?”
“I don’t know. It’s up to Jake.”
“Well, if you want it done properly, you know you can count on me.”
“Thank you, Bertha.” Marina made for the door.
“Have a word with Jake. Perhaps he can assign me to that room for the summer.” She bustled over to the kettle and thrust it under the tap. “I wouldn’t necessarily trust those silly housemaids to do a good job. He’s a handsome lad, and they might get into trouble.” She gave Marina a meaningful look. “You know what young girls are like. Much too free with their loins.”