Right Place Wrong Time

chapter 11

Over the next few weeks, Matt and I grew closer and closer. Our relationship became more physical, but the intimacy wasn’t like anything either of us had experienced before. It wasn’t just sex with your most recent fling, it meant more than that, and there were sparks between us that I couldn’t explain.

Matt would still come into the gym to visit me every day, but it wasn’t creepy any more, he’d work out on the machines or chat to Jack while I was with a client and then we’d catch up between my clients.

“My mum wants to meet you.” He stated.

“That would be nice,” I agreed.

“So when are you free? She wants to cook for you.”

“I can do Saturday or Sunday, I’m working late this week.”

“Saturday.” He said abruptly, “come round on Saturday, around 8?”

“Sounds good.” I smiled, “I have to go, my next client’s here. See you later.”

“See you later gorgeous.” He replied, bending down and planting a small kiss on my cheek.

On Saturday night I got ready early, as Matt always arrived early for our dates, I thought it appropriate to do the same. Picked out some black jeans and a white peplum top, simple silver jewellery hung off my neck and ears, complimenting the subtle make up on my face. My hair was all pulled back into a pony tail with my waves cascading behind my neck. I grabbed my keys and my bag, threw on my big coat and a pair of boots and left the house.

“Hey you,” I said quietly as Matt opened the door.

“Hey gorgeous.” He replied, “Come in.”

I left my boots neatly by the door and allowed Matt to take my coat and bag before leading me to the kitchen where his mum busied herself preparing our meal.

“Mum,” Matt said quietly, waiting for her to lift her head slightly in our direction, “this is Tia.”

“Hi,” I said shyly, letting Matt’s hand slip from the small of my back as I took a step towards his mum.

“You’re just as pretty as Matthew said you were,” she gushed; I felt my cheeks blush as she pulled me into a hug, “it’s so lovely to finally meet you!”

“Yeah you too Mrs Green,” I smiled, “I’ve heard a lot about you!”

“Please, call me Grace.”

She shot a nervous glance towards Matt, but he reassured her with a smile and a small shake of his head. I wasn’t sure what this meant but Grace was small, she looked old and weary I could tell by her vulnerable aura that she had been through a lot.

As the evening progressed, Grace began to relax; she became more open as she asked me about my family and my job. I complemented her on what was the best lasagne I had ever eaten.

“My mum was Italian,” she replied, “she taught me everything I know! I’ve tried to teach Matthew but he’s hopeless!”

“Mum!” Matt laughed.

“Oh tell me about it!” I said to Grace, “He told me he’d cook me breakfast the other day, I’m not a culinary genius, but I’m pretty sure toast isn’t supposed to be black!”

Our laughter was interrupted by the slamming of the front door. Grace’s body tensed as a large figure appeared in the doorway of the dining room. He had eyes similar to Matt’s, but they didn’t hold the same sparkle, they held anger and resentment.

“This all looks very cosy, is this what you always get up to when I’m away?” he grunted, a grimace appearing on his mouth, framed by his dark beard, “and who’s this little beauty.”