Page 5 of One Month's Notice
A grateful warmth filled Nat’s chest at Lexi’s infinite confidence in her.
“Thanks. I talked them through the re-branding project for the estate agency, how I used psychology in the design process, and how I plan to tailor the designs to their needs.”
“You’ve got this. Seriously. Remember, you’ve got the charisma of an authentic artist. They probably left that room with hearts in their eyes.”
Nat smiled to herself. Lexi always knew the right thing to say. Her gaze wandered out the cafe window, contemplating what the immediate future might hold.
“They mentioned they had a few more companies to see, so they’ll get back to me as soon as they can. I guess now I’m in that nerve-wracking waiting game.”
“Well, until then, let’s just celebrate the fact that you nailed that interview, OK?” Lexi’s words were filled with genuine excitement. “Although I am concerned if you get this job, you won’t have time for my little project. I’m due to get the keys next week!”
“Don’t you worry, you’re my number one priority. I will make sure there’s plenty of time to get that place looking absolutely perfect for you.”
“You are a beautiful person, Natalie Jane Cavendish. Make sure you let me know what happens.”
“I’ll let you know as soon as I hear from them.”
“Awesome. Now go enjoy your victory coffee and bask in the glow of a job well done. Talk to you later!”
Lexi’s words left Nat with a sense of renewed energy and a profound gratitude for the friend who always knew how to build her confidence.
Chapter four
Friday 15th April, daytime
Nat pushed open the heavy door of ‘Le Jardin d’Hiver’ in central London and a gust of fresh spring air swirled in behind her. The restaurant was the epitome of elegance, with its high ceilings adorned with intricate mouldings, white linen-draped tables, and walls lined with tall arched windows that bathed the room in soft natural light. The gentle hum of conversation blended with the clinking of fine china and the subtle notes of a live piano being played in the background.
She spotted her parents at a table near the grand fireplace, its marble mantle boasting a display of fresh flowers that perfumed the air. Her mother, Anita, looked up from the menu, eyes sharpening as Nat approached. Geoff, her dad, offered a warm, reassuring smile that eased some of the tightness in Nat’s chest.
“Nat, darling, you look thin. Are you eating enough?” Anita’s voice carried a tone of concern wrapped in critique as she stood to embrace her daughter.
“Hi, Mum,” Nat replied, offering a small smile while shrugging off the comment. She turned to her dad for a more genuine hug, feeling the familiar comfort in his steady presence.
“Looking good, love.” Geoff squeezed her shoulder gently before they all sat down.
Anita wasted no time diving into Nat’s personal life. “So, tell me about Joe. I heard things ended badly. What happened?”
Nat tensed, her hands fidgeting with the silverware. “Mum, it’s not really—”
“Anita, leave the girl be,” Geoff interrupted with a soft but firm tone, giving his wife a look that bordered on admonishment. “Can’t we just enjoy our lunch without turning it into an interrogation?” He turned to Nat. “I hope you don’t mind love, but we ordered for you. Your mum was worried we might be late for the theatre.”
Anita pursed her lips but relented, shooting Nat a pointed look that suggested this conversation wasn’t over, merely postponed. Nat exhaled quietly, grateful for her father’s intervention. She didn’t need another reminder of her perceived failures, least of all when it came to her romantic life—or lack of.
The waiter arrived at their table, balancing a tray overflowing with artfully arranged dishes. As he placed the plates of gourmet food, Nat couldn’t help but admire the vibrant colours and intricate presentation that made everything almost too pretty to eat. The restaurant’s lavishness was evident through the whole dining experience—from each perfect morsel to the plush seats, gleaming cutlery, and the low buzz of quiet chatter mixed with gentle laughter.
“Simon mentioned you went for an interview. Something about interior design for an accountancy firm?” Anita’s question sliced through the ambiance.
Nat felt her irritation bubble at the mention of her brother. Trust Simon to spill details she wasn’t ready to share. Still, she knew better than to let her annoyance show. “Yes, it was an opportunity I wanted to explore,” she said, keeping her tone neutral as she nudged a seared scallop around her plate.
“Tell us a bit about it,” Geoff encouraged, attempting to navigate the conversation into safer waters.
“It was… interesting.” Nat paused, gauging how much to reveal without inviting more scrutiny from her mother. “I think it went well, but you never can tell with these things.” She offered them a small smile, hoping to convey both optimism and reality without showing too much of her self-doubt.
They settled into silence as each of them took polite bites of their food, nodding appreciatively as they savoured the intense flavours. Nat’s phone vibrated sharply against the tablecloth, interrupting the peace. Anita tutted loudly. A quick glance at the screen showed a familiar number. She excused herself, pushing back her chair and stepping outside.
“Hello?” Her voice was steady despite the flutter of anticipation in her chest.
“Ms Cavendish?” The voice on the other end of the line was brisk, similar to the tone Nat had been met with during her interview. “This is Harriet from Summit Financials.”