A Famous Affair

A Famous Affair chapter 11

The motion of the train does little to appease my self-inflicted nausea. How the hell will I get through this very long day? The trade fair in Kent is always a busy one. Dread fills me to the brim as I think of the noise and having to be overly nice to everyone, when my head is pounding. I feel like I've not slept for three whole days.

Thoughts of my day ahead are gladly interrupted by my mobile.

Morning beautiful ... can't wait to see you. The driver will be picking you up at 3:30 p.m.

Once you are in London, you will pick up Erin in Balham.

Jonny xxxx

I tap in a speedy reply.

I'm soooo excited

Jessica xxxx

The butterflies flutter around in my stomach and my spirits lift at the thought of seeing Jonny at his home. Maybe I will make it through the day after all.

***

As predicted, the Kent fair was busy, tiring and very loud. My professional self did very well, hiding the fact she had a humdinger of a hangover, with cheekbones aching from all the smiling she has done. The relief of being picked up by Jonny's driver is evident as I sit down in the back seat. I mould into it, and a heavy sigh escapes my mouth.

"Are you okay, madam?" The young man driving is looking at me from his rear view mirror. He has very short, dark blond hair with attractive chocolate brown eyes. He's cleanly shaven which only enhances his boyish good looks and he has a very pleasant manner. He seems genuinely courteous and polite. I guess he would have to be if he works for Jonny.

"Call me Jessica, I hate being called madam. It's so bloody formal." I see his eyes crease upwards as he laughs.

"In that case. Are you okay, Jessica?"

"I'm good, thanks. Well, put it this way . . . I am now! It was my birthday yesterday and I've been feeling rather fragile for most of the day." I smile, looking back at him.

The driver winces. "Hangover and work, never a good combination."

I roll my eyes with a smirk. "Tell me about it. Sorry, what's your name?" I ask, leaning slightly forward.

"Simon."

"It has been a long old day, Simon." I wearily tell him, relaxing again in my seat.

"Well, we have a bit of a drive, so just relax, Jessica." Making myself comfy, I look out of the tinted window. The outside world passes me by in one continuous tiring blur. I feel my heavy lids getting heavier and heavier and heavier.

I must have dozed off as some time later, I'm woken up by the sound of Simon's voice, talking on his hands free mobile.

"Okay, we'll get to you in about fifteen minutes, Miss Laurelson." I hear him say.

I do feel a little better for the nap in the car but I think I had better freshen up just a little before Miss Sour Puss graces us with her perfect presence. Digging out my life saving doer upper bag. I find my vanity mirror; my much needed blusher and lip-gloss. I touch up my fading make-up with just a few swishes of blusher upon the apples of my cheeks and a sweep of plum lip gloss over my pale lips. Then I brush my hair, which falls naturally and flirtatiously onto my achy shoulders.

I do feel better, but do I look better? Holding the small round mirror in my outstretched arm so I can see my whole face in its reflection, I'm pleasantly surprised. Jessica Neel, you are restored to glory. I smile to myself.