The Grudge
by Ian Curtress
How many years had they
been close friends, seems forever, those Uni
times. What a pity that period of difficulty when
they both fell in love with the same girl.
When he became engaged to Patricia just a year
ago there was a distinct cooling on Bobs part.
So what better way of restoring their friendship
than by asking him to be his Best Man and
organise his stag night.
They were to be married in Greece and guests were
joining them a week before so there was plenty of
time to decide on the surprise stag night.
His friend seemed his old self and entered into
the spirit of the task.
Came the Day…
He was picked up blindfolded and put on a boat,
after about half an hour he was helped onto the
shore and he heard the boat leave.
Struggling to remove the blindfold he heard
someone behind him. They untied the knot and he
rubbed his eyes to regain focus.
Turning he saw the most beautiful girl who smiled,
took his hand and walking up the beach said my
name is Maria. I am going to introduce you Greek
food, Greek dancing and Greek hospitality.
I am told this is your last Special Day.
He was happy, intrigued but not too sure about
the Last Special Day remark.
However he was intoxicated by the beautiful
island, the blue sea and he had to admit the
beautiful girl companion. So was ready for
anything.
They had walked hand in hand into the heavily
wooded part of the island until they reached a
clearing where stood an old but romantic looking
hut.
Several of Maria’s friends were there
preparing what was to become a feast.
Surprisingly several had a pretty good smattering
of English.
The atmosphere was amazing, as was the food.There
was talking, laughing, lots of laughing about
language.
Quite a lot of drinking but all with happy intent.
The sun was at its peak and it was thought wise
they should all find shade and rest as there was
to be much dancing all evening.
Maria chose what was obviously a favourite spot
and they collapsed with gratitude onto the cool
grass.
She was within touching distance of him and he
noticed just how beautiful she was, eyes closed
and at peace. He turned away and dropped asleep.
He was aware of music but for a moment was
disoriented. Then Maria appeared looking
incredibly fresh and sparkling.
You have had a very sound sleep which is good as
it is going to be a very energetic evening. And
so it was….
Learning , or attempting to learn Greek dancing.
Drinking and dancing until the small hours. Then
they all said their goodbyes and were gone.
Maria said the boat is picking you up in the
morning so you can sleep in the hut, give me ten
minutes and I won’t disturb you. Looking at
her he saw a Greek goddess, for the first time he
really noticed the lovely gown she was wearing as
she went into the hut.
His thoughts and emotions were all over the place
so he sat for a while before following her.
There she was, lying elegantly on the bed. The
gown uncreased but now a heavy veil covered her
face and shoulders.
He began to lie alongside her and then suddenly
his brain went into over drive. Parts of the
puzzle fitted. The grudge was still there!
He knew that perfume anywhere. He had bought it
with difficulty knowing it was her favourite.
A lovely surprise Patricia but why didn’t
you join in the fun today, he said, and slowly
lifted the veil.
She showed a mixture of relief, embarrassment and
sheer joy.
I’m sorry she said, it was Bobs idea for
your Stag night, but I now see the ulterior
motive. Hoping you would be unfaithful and I
would turn to him.
Maria innocently, thought it was all a real
surprise (Odd Brits) and had no idea of the
implications.
That perfume was worth every penny!
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