THE SWAN
As she picked up the fluffy pink Mangolian cushion Holly
held it against her face. “Pink, I love pink” she whispered as she brushed it
with her hand and placed it back on the bed. She flicked back her long dark lustrous
hair and picked up her white crystal studded shoulder bag.
Smartly, yet casually dressed she closed the front door and
made her way along the street. The usual youngsters were playing outside; the
older ones hanging around the street corner. She remembered her mother had
never allowed her to play out in the street, “It only bred trouble” she would
say. She made her way to the Tube Station. Her destination: The Royal Opera
House, Covent Garden and her final performance in Swan
Lake
The train came to a halt at Osterley and she glanced through
the window in search for Chloe, a fellow dancer she had befriended. Chloe had
evolved from a privileged background and was the envy of many in the Cast who
scrimped and scrapped in low affordable accommodation. A price they paid for
the low wages in performing their art. Holly caught sight of her and waved
furiously. “Hi Chloe” and greeted her with a hug. “Last performance tonight,
thank Goodness” said Chloe, fumbling with the strap on her rucksack. “Yes it’s
been an exhausting month but I so love the elegance of Swan
Lake
They made their exit from the Tube at Covent Garden
and walked to the stage door at the Royal Opera House. The wardrobe area array
with an ora of white fluffiness from the Swans’ Tutus hanging along the rails.
“I love looking at them; so beautiful” Holly pondered. Chloe quickened her
stride, “Come on, curtain up at 7.30”
Holly hated the heaviness of stage make-up. She had a
natural radiance; requiring only Mascara and Lip-gloss to accessorize her usual
good style of dress and beauty. Nevertheless she had to endure “the full works”
as she would call it, for stage lighting and emphasis.
Holly and Chloe stood in line among the others in the wings in
anticipation of ‘curtain up’ Holly fluffed up her Tutu. She loved dancing the
Swan and would savor every moment of this last performance. Poise and elegance at
its finest, she thought. ‘Curtain up’ and the Swans floated on.
As usual, it was a fine performance and the House was
packed. After the Finale and much applause the last curtain came down.
Holly removed the stage make-up. Adding a natural lip-gloss
she turned to Chloe. “Are you staying in town or traveling back Chloe?”
Slipping on her coat Chloe replied, “I think there are mumblings about going to
the Pub as it’s the last show” Holly made up her mind to go ‘with the flow’.
She was tired but it would be unsociable not to do so. As
she passed her Tutu and headdress to the Wardrobe Department she fought back
tears which she feared would visibly cascade. At least she had fulfilled the
ultimate dream; a part in Swan Lake
er girls, can you
listen to me for a moment” Sue the Choreographer interrupting their chatter.
We have a request from the Saudi Arabian Ambassador and his
guests to join them for a meal at the Dorchester . As
it’s late you will all be allocated safe transport home. It would be rude to
refuse unless you have a really good reason not to. Chloe nudged Holly. “Wow, my parents would
love this” Holly pondered, “You know I would rather go home and relax with mum
and Kieran.” Chloe appeared unsure. “Yes, on second thoughts I think I’ll give
it a miss, I promised an old school friend I would meet up tonight”
Cabs were arranged and both Production Staff and Cast waited
excitedly for their arrival.
Holly found herself drawn to the excitement and changed her
mind. She was going to join the meal and searched around for Chloe. A voice
from the distance echoed, “Holly, Chloe had a previous commitment; she has
gone” The Cabs arrived and Holly accompanied the others to the Dorchester .
Upon arrival,
a uniformed Doorman was at the entrance. As she stepped into
the Foyer she was in awe of its splendor. She had been to grand places on
several occasions but loved the design and class of this place.
Everyone assembled in the Bar for pre-dinner drinks. “A bit
late for Dinner” Holly joked to the Barman. “No problem Madam. Special arrangements
have been made.” As she glanced around Holly noticed Chloe
enter the Bar. “Hi Chloe” she quipped. “I thought you
weren’t coming?” Fiddling uncomfortably with her hair Chloe muttered “It blew
out. My friend couldn’t make it so I got a Cab here by myself”. Holly sat back
on the barstool. “I decided to come after all and tried to find you but was
told you had left. Anyway, I’m glad you’re here. A place like this can cater
for one more I’m sure”
The Saudi Ambassador appeared with his two smartly dressed guests.
One by one Sue introduced the two men; Prince Abdullah and Prince Mustafa to
the Production team and cast. Chloe appeared keen to make a good impression to
both men. She tried desperately to hold their attention for as long as she
could but they eventually excused themselves to circulate As Abdullah and
Mustafa stepped towards Holly she flashed a nervous smile yet with her usual
bubbly manner said “Hello, I hope you enjoyed the Ballet?” Upon shaking her
hand Abdullah held her gaze. “Yes we did indeed, thank you, immensely. Very
British”. Mustafa moved along; Chloe had previously taken up so much of their
time already and Sue was waiting for them. Abdullah was oblivious to the
situation and carried on talking with Holly. “I had always wanted to see it. It
is a fine piece of your culture ”Abdullah smiled. By now Holly felt easier and her usual
confidence exuded. “I always wanted to dance in Swan
Lake
The Bar area began to empty; it was time to make way to the
Restaurant. Chloe was waiting at the doorway. “Well lucky you” Chloe quipped
almost sarcastically. “He took some time chatting to you!!”
The restaurant with its starched tablecloths, napkins and
silverware looked awesome but it was the flowers on the table which took
Holly’s breath away. “Pink and white” she muttered “Beautiful” A man’s voice
whispered quietly “May I have the pleasure of joining you?”
Holly turned round, “Oh yes of course that would be lovely;
Abdullah isn’t it?” As he pulled out her chair he whispered softly “Please call
me Abdul “. Chloe sat next to Holly on her other side. She had hoped to place
herself near Mustafa but he was over the other side with Sue and one of the
other girls. Holly glanced at the cutlery and remembered her mother had told
her to work from the outside inwards but she knew she could peek at Chloe if
the need arose. With the flick of her hand she tossed her long hair away from
her face. Abdul took his cue, “How long have you danced Holly?” Holly took a
sip of wine, Almost since I could walk. I can do many different types of dance
but Ballet is my favourite. It was always my dream to do Swan
Lake
it is part of my religion. I am Muslim Holly but please
enjoy your wine. As we were saying, you dance beautifully and caught my eye. I
watched you throughout most of the performance; so beautiful.
Holly blushed; hoping it would not become apparent. “Oh
that’s lovely; thank you”. Pouring water from a jug into his glass Abdullah
asked, “Do you live in London ?” She
took another sip of wine. “I live on the outskirts of town but it’s easy to get
here by train. I love London ” The
waiter arrived with the starter.
Holly quickly glanced to her left and watched Chloe pick up her cutlery. To her relief she remembered the guidance her mother had given her. After all, it isn’t every day you get a row of ‘eating irons’.
Holly quickly glanced to her left and watched Chloe pick up her cutlery. To her relief she remembered the guidance her mother had given her. After all, it isn’t every day you get a row of ‘eating irons’.
Chloe moved in towards Holly and whispered, “Be careful! He
is rather attentive. I wouldn’t say too much to him” Abdullah enquired about
Holly’s life and made small talk. She felt relaxed and her bubblyness as usual
shone through.
As the meal drew to a close the Saudi Ambassador arranged
transport home for the Princes’s guest.
As he took her hand Abdullah shook it and held his grip. He
passed a small piece of paper to her. “I hope you are not offended Holly; I
wrote down my personal number to pass to you. I am in London
for another two weeks. It would be a great honour if you would care to join me
perhaps for Dinner one evening”. Holly felt exhilarated “Oh thank you, I may do
that”. Again she noticed Chloe watching her movements
and was concerned her friend’s evening would not be spoilt
by worrying about her. However, she popped the piece of paper in her purse.
The following day she met Chloe for lunch. “Hi Chloe” Holly
waved. Chloe seemed friendly yet also slightly agitated. “I saw that last
night; he passed his number to you Holly”. Excitedly Holly spun round,
“I know and a real Prince; how good is that and I loved that
place we went to”. Chloe could see the excitement and pride in her friend’s
eyes and by now had become extremely agitated and snapped, “I warned you to be
careful with him. He is probably only here for a short while; another notch for
him I’d say.” Holly was surprised her friend didn’t share her good fortune. “I
might not even go” she said meakly. Chloe stamped her foot, “Well did you know
that Saudi Arabia
have a lot of Princes. They run the country. It’s not like a Prince here where
we have just a few. If you see him I will tell your boyfriend and I won’t want to
know you”. Amazed at such a reaction Holly turned on her heels, “I thought you
were a true friend. That is awful”. She walks away and tried to divert her mind
from Chloe’s betrayal by window shopping. She stops. takes a deep breath then
takes the small piece of paper out of her purse and dials the number.
“Hello”came a softly spoken foreign male voice. “Hello
Abdul, it’s Holly. About that invitation for Dinner. Yes I would love to join
you” There was a pause, “I am most privileged Holly. Are you free tomorrow?”
Staring at the bright sunlight she knew she had made her
decision. “Yes that would be lovely; when and where?” Abdullah sounded
confident and in control of the situation which she had always found an
attractive attribute in a man “I will have a car to collect you from wherever
you wish; about 7.30?” Holly knew it was
the moment to lay down the rules. Abdullah would have the chance to back out
even if at the last minute, “Just one thing Abdul, you did say Dinner and if
you will excuse me for saying so and please do not take personal offence, I ONLY
do Dinner”. Abdul went quiet for a few seconds. “Holly, I really respect you for
that and you have my word trust me”. She
breathed a sigh of relief at his kind words. “Can you ask your driver to
collect me at Hatton Cross Station; I don’t really want anyone seeing me. It’ll
be all over face book or gossip will get distorted. “Of course 7.30 it is. Look
forward to seeing you Holly”.
Back home she looked through her wardrobe; the bed stacked
with clothes, bags and shoes.
After many outfit changes she decided a navy cocktail dress
would be appropriate. Yes navy, this year’s colour: classic and classy. Now
shoes and jewellery!.
Holly drove herself to Hatton Cross. Better to be
independent as a precautionary measure. She didn’t know Abdullah and if things
got out of hand she could head for the Tube or the all night bus, pick up her
car and drive home. She fidgeted as she stood at Hatton Cross and couldn’t
determine whether it be nerves or excitement or a combination of both. A
gleaming car approached, the Chauffer got out and opened the door for her. “Good
evening Madam. I believe it’s Claridges”.. “This is a first” she thought. “Could
get to like this” On arrival at Claridges
a smartly dressed uniformed Doorman opened the door for her. “Good
evening Madam”. With heart pounding she could see Abdullah rise from his seat
in the Foyer to greet her. He took her hand and kissed it gently, “Lovely to
see you Holly. You look beautiful. This is such an honour for me” She was
overwhelmed by his polite and attentive manner.
“Englishmen are not usually like this; they tend to be
rather reserved emotionally” she thought. “Thank you Abdul; likewise. It is
lovely to see you again. Thank you for inviting me”
He guided her to the Bar area for a pre-dinner drink. “What
would you like?” he asked softly. “I’ll join you in a soft drink if that’s all
right by you. I drove my car to Hatton Cross and parked up so I cannot drink”. “Yes
Sir, what would you like?” the Barman asked.”May I have sparkling water with a
dash of lime juice please?” Holly quipped. Abdullah pondered, “Could you make
that two please?” “I will bring your drinks to you Sir”. They walked over to the sofa. Holly flicked
her hair away from her face.
She loved her thick lustrous hair; it was her crowning glory
and swayed like the breeze as she walked.
“Was there much traffic coming into
town” Abdullah asked. Not really. It was quite a smooth ‘run in. I guess ‘rush
hour’ hadn’t been that bad. The traffic kept flowing all the way along. As she
looked around the sparkle from the large Crystal
chandelier caught her eye. She touched the soft velvet buttoned
upholstery of the sofa. Abdullah
sipped his drink,“This is really nice, so refreshing. You have good taste. Would
you like more ice?” “No I’m fine thank you. Abdul, where are you staying?”
“Mustafa and I are at
the Ambassador’s residence; there
are security measures there”. Holly was intrigued, “Security? Well what happens
when you are out of his residence?” He touched her had re-assumingly. “I have
people
around me all the time. Holly, you are safe. Shall we go and
dine?”
They entered the restaurant. Holly glanced around, “Those
two men over there. Are they Bodyguards?”
she wondered, “they were in the Bar at the same time”.
Abdullah pulled out a chair and seated Holly at the table. As she sat down she
noticed an arrangement of white roses, gyps Ophelia and white feathers.
Abdullah had requested a centre piece especially for her. “They are beautiful”
she gasped. “Fluffiness in the Gyps Ophelia and feathers like swans”. “I am
delighted you like them”. He beckoned the Waiter who took his cue. “Madam this
is for you from the gentleman” On a small silver tray was a small gift wrapped
box adorned with a fresh pink rose. Holly felt her face redden with embarrassment.
“Is this really for me Abdul? Why?” “Open it” he replied. Fumbling nervously
whilst opening the tiny package she glanced at the rose. “Pink! My favourite
colour, it’s so pretty”. As she opened the small box she found a solid silver
locket. “Oh Abdul” she gasped, “It has a swan engraved on the front and
yesterday’s date on the back. I really don’t deserve this. You know you
shouldn’t have!” He sipped from his glass, “It is our custom to buy our
beautiful women beautiful gifts. You are a very special person to me. I have
the privilege of your company”. “Yes, but it is ONLY Dinner!” She began to
suspect he would try and break the rules and later try the
bedroom tactics. He could read her mind. “Of course it is ONLY Dinner. I
respect you and although I am a full-bloodied man I would not wish to loose you
because I had taken advantage” Holly was so relieved. He was a genuinely lovely
man whom she had begun to like immensely. She rose from her seat and flung her
arms around him. “Thank you Abdul; you are such a special person too”. He
responded with a hug, “Now tell me more about your life in England
and I will tell you about mine in Saudi Arabia ”.
The Waiter arrived with the menu. Holly choose a Starter of
Seafood, followed by Coq a Vin and Fruit
Cocktail. Abdullah choose a Starter of Stuffed Mushrooms followed
by Sea bass and also Fruit Cocktail.
“Drinks Sir?” enquired the Waiter. “Would you like a juice
Holly?” “I will join you in water if I may. Could I have a sparkling one please
Abdul? “One still water and one sparkling water please? Abdul asked.
“Where were we? Ah yes, your life here in England ”.
“ I have lived in Hanworth for most of my life. I went to an ordinary school
and was reasonably academic but as you already know the only thing I ever
wanted to do was dance. My destiny, I call it.” “Did you go to University?” he
asked, “Everyone automatically seems to go to University now.” “No, I didn’t
want to do that. I left school and went to college to gain my qualifications in
dance and then qualified to teach. Whilst at college I did a part-time job mainly
selling finance in Retail and had my own small business breeding and selling
rabbits.
Only to good homes though. Before I sold any of them I would
inspect the homes they were going to. They were all cherished; I would see them born
then weaned; it was not only a moneyed enterprise. In fact I made little money
but loved it. Looking puzzled, Abdullah quipped, “You mean you went to college
to study and took on a part-time job as well.” “Yes of course, I needed the
money to go out with my friends plus things I needed. I couldn’t expect my mum
to pay for everything plus I had a car. At one time I did a bit of modeling and
television work; that bought in a little more cash. .I was lucky to progress and
get a place at the Ballet Rambert
School Swan Lake
Company?” “This was my first job with them. How lucky was
that; Swan Lake England
and sometimes go abroad” “Abdullah took
Holly’s gaze, “You know Holly, you are an incredible young woman; loving,
strong, confident, ambitious and incredibly beautiful”. Holly put down her knife and folk, “That is a
lovely thing to say but you know Abdullah, English girls do not get that kind
of flattery. Our men are very reserved and when we do get it from them we
become suspicious. Some of them flatter for only one reason.” “You must
understand Holly; it is in our blood to be romantic. It is natural for us to
open our hearts but I wouldn’t do so if I didn’t mean it. Please accept my
compliment”. “I am so sorry if I offended you Abdul. Indeed I now understand from
your part it is a cultural thing. Now I come to think about it Italian and
Spanish men are the same. Now how about your life in Saudi!”
The Main Course arrives. “This looks healthy; I have chicken
and you have fish” said Holly.
“Yes good choice. Let me start from the beginning. I was
educated for a while at boarding school here in England
and then attended the London School of Economics. After that I returned to
Saudi to follow in my family’s footsteps. You see Holly ,
Saudi Arabia
Women can now drive alone”. Holly looked aghast, “Women can
now drive on their own!!! Did they think
they were incapable?” “It’s not as bad as you imagine Holly. The Press do tend
to over exaggerate and when the English go out there and work most of them
actually like it. For one, the sun is always shining” he laughs. “There is of
course much wealth owing to our oil. Riyadh
for example is incredibly rich; a city to be proud of. Our women have a good
standards; great jewels and luxuries.” “You mean a bit like Dallas
but in Saudi” “Yes except I am not J R Ewing” Holly laughs and nearly falls
from her chair, “this man’s got style.” Abdullah gets out of his seat and
steadies her, “Are you sure that’s only water you’re drinking” and laughs..
The Waiter arrives with the Desert. “Thank goodness for
something light. I am rather full are you Abdul?”
“Yes, did you enjoy your Coq a Vin?” “Lovely thank you and
your Seabass?” “It was fine; very enjoyable;
I love fish, men are usually huge meat eaters but this one
loves fish” he chuckles.
“Now for Coffee. I believe the British like Coffee. Would
you like one Holly?” I would love a cup of tea; now you can’t get more British
than that”, Holly laughs. “We drink mint tea but I think I will have a
Coffee. I’ve been drinking it all week with the Ambassador”
Tea and Coffee are served. Abdullah looks uneasy and
serious. “Holly, please do not stop me from what I am about to say. You see, I
loved you from the moment I saw you on the stage. I guess it was love at first
sight” Holly’s eyes widened. “No Holly, hear me out. This is coming from deep
in my heart. I have
looked into your soul especially this evening. I DO mean it
when I say I genuinely love you for your strengths, compassion, ambition.
humour and your beauty. Holly couldn’t believe what she was hearing. It
was nearing the end
of the evening; was he making the “bedroom” move? “Holly, would you come to
Saudi and be my wife?. You would make me such a proud man. You will have a good
life. Please take your time and consider it”
Holly was speechless then gathered her senses. “But Abdul
you hardly know me!!!!” “Believe me Holly I rate myself a good judge of
character. Please, please at least consider it. I know on my part this is
something unforeseen that has happened .I didn’ come to London
expecting to fall in love. You have my number and I am going to give you my
email address. If you decide otherwise at least please keep in touch and if you
ever change your mind I will be waiting. “But Abdul, you can have more than one
wife if you are rich. I couldn’t share”. “Indeed we are allowed four wives if
we can afford it; it is our religion. I do not have a wife yet. I would have
one wife, YOU. Anyway, it has been a beautiful evening and I hope you have
enjoyed it. I will call my Chauffeur for you”.
Thank you Abdul for a wonderful time and the beautiful
locket. I shall treasure it forever. May I take a feather from the arrangement?”
“Yes of course; take the arrangement if you wish, it is yours”
He took her in his arms and kissed her on the lips tenderly.
“Remember Holly, I love you. Oh here is the car”. The Chauffeur opens the door
and she steps in. She waves at Abdullah and blows a kiss.
Immersed in confusion; her mind almost numb she sits back
and catches sight of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament lit up and showing
all their glory. “London , how could
anyone leave London ? The
Chauffeur asks directions to her car. He opens the door and
she steps out. As she hears the car door close it reminds her almost of a door
closing on the grand style she has experienced the past two days..“Drive
carefully Madam”. Thank you for taking me. Goodnight”.
Holly couldn’t remember driving home. She was ecstatic yet scared
of the decision which would confront her.. She went up to her room but sleep
evaded her and when it did she thought she had been dreaming.
The next few days she mulled over Abdullah’s offer of
marriage. Yes she was fond of him and in a funny sort of way she loved him. She
was almost sure he was genuine. He could give her fine riches; how lucky was
that. Could she convert to his religion? That would mean wearing long clothes
and covering her so cherished hair. She wouldn’t be able to dance. She held the
pink fluffy Mongolian cushion against her face. Soft, warm and bought by her
beloved Kieran when she had so wanted it.
She picked up her Mobile ,
“Hello Abdul. Thank you for a wonderful evening. I wanted you to know I had
seriously considered your proposal. As much as I love you, I cannot give up my
dancing. I am so sorry but one thing I would really treasure and that is that
we keep in touch and stay friends for life. I couldn’t loose
you completely; that would break my heart”. “Of course I am
disappointed Holly but you are wise enough to know that without your dancing
career life would never be a happy one for you. Yes, at least being a friend
for life will mean I have some part of you. All is not lost; on the contrary
much has been gained”
“Thank you Abdul for your understanding and such a wonderful
compromise. We will email and meet when you come to London
again”. “Indeed, and you and your family come out as my guests in Saudi”
“Bye for now Holly” “By for now Abdul. Love you”
She picks up her white studded shoulder bag. Time for
Rehearsal: Swan Lake
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